Thanks to our friends at VCA Angel Animal Hospital for the tips on keeping your pets safe this Halloween.

While kids of all ages look forward to dressing up and overloading on candy, the holiday can be a scary—and dangerous—time for pets. Here are some tips to help ensure your pet stays happy and safe this Halloween.

 

Dangerous foods
Don’t let your pet indulge in any Halloween candy. Chocolate and the artificial sweetener xylitol can be deadly if dogs eat them. Grapes, raisins and currants can also be hazardous for dogs. See our prior post on toxic foods for a complete list.
Help for dogs frightened by loud noises
For dogs that become overly excited or nervous during holiday celebrations (e.g., July 4th fireworks, loud Halloween activities) or thunderstorms, we often recommend a new orally administered tranquilizer called SILEO® (from Zoetis). If you would like to know more about this product, please ask your veterinarian.

 

Keep your cat indoors!
Whether or not you have a black cat, keep your feline friend in your house during the days leading up to Halloween. With increased foot and vehicular traffic outside this time of year, indoors is the safest place to be.
Halloween decorations
Keep Halloween decorations, such as fake spider webs, jack-o’-lanterns with candles, and any toys that could be eaten, out of your pet’s reach. While you’re decorating, it’s a good idea to put your pet in another room and distract him or her with a new toy.
Is your pet well socialized?
Be sure your pet is well socialized and used to being around kids if you plan to bring your pet along for trick-or-treating. Otherwise, it’s best to leave your pet at home.
Costumes
Never force your pet to wear a costume. Make sure any costume you try is pet friendly, with no buttons, bows, fringe or other choking hazards, and it allows your pet to move freely.