Halloween and Pets

Halloween is a favorite holiday for many children and adults, but it is a holiday that can be frightening and dangerous for your companion animals. By taking a few precautions in advance, you can assure that Halloween will be enjoyable and safe for everyone.

Some trick or treat goblins carry noisemakers, or squeal and scream in fright and delight as they go door to door. For many dogs and cats, these new noises and sounds can be scary. You can protect your pets by keeping them safely shut in a room away from the front door and the activity.

Dogs who have a tendency to guard your front door may be even more protective when the potential intruder is in costume. Dogs and cats who become frightened by the activity can dart out an open door to find themselves lost in the dark amid goblins and ghosts. Frightened, they are at even higher risk of running into the street where they could be hit by a car.

If your dog is accustomed to a nightly walk, try to go a little earlier and before dark. When you return, bring your dog inside. No matter how secure the yard, animals should not be left out in the yard on Halloween. Frightened animals can always find ways to escape.

If you are taking children trick-or-treating, leave your pets at home. A dog may be more likely to snap as he encounters laughing and screaming ghouls. If you do take him, use a short leash and stay away from groups of children and avoid other dogs.

I do not recommend dressing up your dog for Halloween, but if you do dress her up, make sure she can tolerate the experience and that the costume will come off easily should she get away. Never use rubber bands to secure the costume, and do not send the family dog out with the kids to trick-or-treat without an adult handler.

If you have not had your dog or cat microchipped for identification, call your veterinarian. You can protect them not only for Halloween but all year long. Make sure your dogs and cats are wearing collars that have tags with your current home phone number, too.

Festive jack-o’-lanterns when lit can pose a fire hazard if knocked over by a pet. They can also lead to injury for those dogs who will chew anything, or inquisitive cats or kittens.

Candy may or may not be good for children, but foil and cellophane wrappers are definitely not good for dogs and cats. Chocolate is toxic to animals and may cause vomiting, restlessness and even death. If you suspect your furry family member has eaten candy and is showing signs of discomfort, call your veterinarian right away.

By following the above tips, the humans in your family can fully enjoy Halloween and your furry family members will remain safe. Happy Halloween!

 
Founded in 1965, Pets In Need receives no federal, state or local government support.

Published in the San Mateo County Times, October 26, 2002