Halloween can be a really fun holiday for adults and children… But for our four-legged friends, it can just as easily be a nightmare! Since we take our pets’ safety and amusement very seriously, we’re sharing a few Halloween safety tips for pets. Let’s make sure they also have fun on the spookiest festivity of the year!
Try to minimize your pets’ anxiety
Above all things, you have to take into consideration your pet’s personality type and know how to recognize signs of stress. Plenty of dogs and the majority of cats get quite anxious with sudden loud noises, strangers and even with the doorbell. Because of that, you should always keep them away from the front door! This is particularly important if you have a cat… As they can easily dart between your legs and be out the door before you even have time to react.
The best way to minimize anxiety or excitement is to get your pet away from the action. Consider keeping them in a comfortable room of the house, even if just for a small period of time or until things cool down.
If your dog or cat gets particularly high-strung or anxious, consider a calming medication. Contact our Care team for advice, or ask your veterinarian about the most suitable approach to keep your pet relaxed!
Be careful with costumes and candy
Trick-or-treating and scary costumes are in the spotlight during Halloween season! Be careful with candy, as chocolate and some sugar substitutes are toxic and can be even fatal for both dogs and cats.
Keep in mind that dressing up your animal can be quite stressful… Especially if they are not used to it, or if the outfit you have chosen is too complex!
For more information and pet friendly tips for treats and costumes, check out our article about Pet Halloween Party Ideas.
Keep your buddies indoors
Avoid leaving your pet outside, particularly if you have a black cat, as they are especially at risk from pranks or other cruelty-related incidents.
Unfortunately there are some vicious “pranksters” out there who find it amusing to tease, injure or steal animals. So make sure your furry friend is housed indoors well before sunset, and double check if they are conveniently tagged and microchipped.
Beware of curious paws
Last but not least, ensure your house is safely decorated by keeping some stuff out of your pets’ reach! Even though Halloween pumpkins and corn displays are not toxic, they can cause some gastrointestinal upsets when nibbled.
Be careful with open flames, like those of a candle or lit pumpkin. Curious kittens and puppies are especially at risk of getting burned or singed by the candle flame.
Electric and battery-powered Halloween decorations are certainly safer than open candles, but they can still be a hazard. Some animals just love to chew wires and batteries and thus may get burned, electrocuted or even poisoned! Additionally, keep candy wrappers, ribbons, strays and cobwebs out of reach!
In conclusion, it’s not that difficult to avoid any scary trouble this spooky season. Just follow these simple Halloween safety tips for pets, add a bit of precaution and common sense, keep your best friend safe and just enjoy the holiday!
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