Halloween pet lovers preparing to enjoy this year’s tricks and treats? Here are a few of Bone up on your Pet Halloween IQ and ensure fun for all while parading door to door this howl-a-day weekend. Bowls of candy are best left for trick-or-treaters, as opposed to Fido and Fluffy. Chocolate in all forms is risky and potentially toxic for dogs and cats. Tin foil and cellophane candy wrappers can also be pet hazards if swallowed.
If you suspect your pet has ingested a potentially dangerous substance, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toll free at 1-888-426-4435.
Popular Halloween plants such as pumpkins and decorative corn are not toxic but pet stomach upsets, vomiting, diarrhea and even intestinal blockage can result if pets ingest enough.
Wires and electric cords should be taped securely to the floor or covered so your dog or cat doesn’t chew them and risk mouth burns or end up with electric pet shock.
Candles and potpourri oils, are best placed high up out of paw reach. Curious pets and kittens can easily knock them over and cause a fire or risk getting burned.
Dressing up pets that enjoy being pampered is fun for the entire family. Be sure your dog and cats costume fits well, does not restrict your pets breathing and movement or their ability to see and hear. Remember some pets, especially older pets, may prefer to trick-or-treat in their own “birthday suit,” as wearing a costume can be stressful.
All but the most social dogs and cats should be safely confined inside your home during peak trick-or-treat hours. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful.
When you open your door for trick-or-treaters, be sure that your cats and/or dogs don’t dart outside. A leash and collar for dogs and a harness for cats help to ensure your 4-footed friends safety.
Proper Pet ID’s accurately updated with your current information are a must. If for any reason your pet gets lost, a collar and tags increase the chances that he or she will be returned safely to you.
Black cats are often targeted by Halloween pranksters. Keep black kitties safely confined inside your home and be aware that many shelters will not allow adoptions of black cats over this holiday.
Holistic pet remedies for dogs and cats that safely reduce fear and festivity stress include placing cotton balls in your pet’s ears which help diminish loud noises. A few homeopathic drops of Bach’s 5 Flower Rescue Remedy pictured below added to your pet’s mouth, food or water bowel help works well to calm nerves and relieve pet stress.
