Spooky season is fun for us, but for our pets? Not so much. A night of strange costumes, a constantly ringing doorbell, and unfamiliar people can be seriously overwhelming.
Here’s your guide to keeping them safe and stress-free this Halloween.
Keep the Candy Bowl Off-Limits
That bowl of treats is a minefield of potential toxins for your pet. Halloween is the busiest night of the year for poison control hotlines for a reason.
- Chocolate: A classic Halloween toxin. While a little might just cause an upset stomach, larger amounts can be fatal.
- Raisins: Found in some treat boxes, even a few can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs.
- Xylitol: This sugar substitute, found in sugar-free gum and candy, is extremely toxic and can cause liver failure.
- Wrappers: Foil and plastic wrappers can cause dangerous intestinal blockages that may require surgery.
Beware of Spooky Decor
- Flames: A wagging tail can easily knock over a lit pumpkin, posing a serious burn or fire risk. Opt for battery-powered candles.
- Glow Sticks: Cats especially love to chew on these, but the liquid inside can cause pain and intense drooling.
Prevent the Great Escape
A constantly opening front door is the perfect escape opportunity for a scared pet.
- Create a Safe Room: Before the first trick-or-treater arrives, set your pet up in a quiet room with the door closed. Give them their favorite bed, a toy, and turn on some music to drown out the noise.
- Check Their ID: Make sure their collar tags and microchip info are up-to-date. It’s their best ticket home if they do get out. We’re always happy to scan for a chip, place one, or help you update their registration.
Costume Check: Cute or Uncomfortable?
If you plan to dress up your pet, run through this quick safety check:
- Does it fit? Make sure the costume doesn’t restrict their movement, breathing, or vision.
- Are there chewable parts? Small buttons or accessories can easily become choking or blockage hazards.
- What’s their vibe? If your pet seems stressed or unhappy, skip the costume. Their comfort is more important than a photo op.
- Never leave them unattended while they’re in costume.
The team at Seattle Veterinary Associates is here to help you and your pet have a fun and safe holiday. Give us a call if you have any questions!