Halloween can be a frightening experience for your pets. Be aware that
black cats and kittens are at serious risk in the last half of October. Keep
them inside. Most shelters will not allow black cats to be adopted during
this time.
Keep your pets away from the door and out of hearing of the doorbell
during the high traffic of Halloween night. Don't make it easy for your pet
to slip out and become disoriented with those unfamiliar creatures in the
neighborhood. Your normally placid pet may be frightened enough to bite an
unsuspecting ghost or goblin who is trying to be friendly.
If you plan to enjoy trick-or-treating fun while the dog stays in the
car, plan again. Imagine sitting in a dark car with witches, goblins and
the like passing you by -- and you have no idea what is Halloween. Don't
take the dog out to trick-or-treat with your children.
Even if you know your pet will be confined, his or her tags or other
identification are essential Halloween wear.
Lock your gates if your dog must stay outside. Dogs left outside
can become prey for pranksters who have teased, injured and even stolen
pets.
And don't leave the dog chained outside your home on Halloween night (or
any night). A frightened dog can quickly become entangled in a chain -- and
if your gone or don't notice quickly enough, your dog could choke or the
dog could break the chain and flee.
Candy is not healthy for pets. Keep all sweets out of your pet's way.
Chocolate can be fatal to your dog so, if your pet does eat chocolate, watch
for vomiting or restlessness, and call your veterinarian for advice.
A wrapper around the candy won't deter your pet, and might get stuck
ing the animal's throat, or cause stomach upset.
Sticks on candy apples or lollipops may be swallowed and cause an obstruction
or perforation of your pet's stomach or bowels.
If you dispose of left-over candy, make sure it is pet proof.
If your dog wears a costume, be sure it does not constrict movement, hearing
or the ability to breathe, bark or see.
Be aware of the elements. If it is hot, dress your dog in a lightweight
costume, if it is cold dress your dog occordingly and maybe think of some
little boots for it's paws if there is snow or ice on the ground.
Dress your dog up a few times before Halloween to get it used to the costume.
Don't force your dog to wear a costume, it will only cause unnecessary
stress.
Keep your dog away from lighted pumpkins, which may cause a fire if tripped
over.
Let's make sure EVERYBODY has a safe Halloween!
Other Links
Chocolate Toxicity in Dogs
Surviving Halloween
Halloween Paper Dolls - Schlomo the Dog!
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