Top 4 Halloween Pet Safety Tips

10/29/2009

Ginger or MaryAnne? Maybe neither.

As you, your ghosts, goblins and Weather Balloon Boys all head out for Halloween festivities this weekend, we here at the Daily Treat command center feel it our civic duty to share with you these important safety tips to prevent you from ending up in some bad YouTube video or on TMZ.

1) Costume Common Sense

If you do decide to dress your pet , make sure the costume doesn't restrain your pet in any way and that your pet's vision is not impaired. Don’t force the issue: If Rover doesn't want to dress up as Lara Croft Tombraider, then Rover shouldn't be Lara Croft...maybe he'd actually prefer Judge Judy.

2) Candy Patrol

As much as your dog or cat may beg for some of your Halloween candy, always remember that chocolate is DEADLY  to them in any amount. Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, which is poisonous to dogs. Symptoms can include vomiting or diarrhea. That said, be sure not to keep that bowl of Halloween candy for trick or treaters anywhere within your pets reach, as it may be too tempting for pets to resist.

If your pet does eat chocolate, immediately call your vet or the Poison Control 1-800-222-1222. Post this number by your phone or on your refrigerator so it can be easily located in an emergency.

3) "Pretty decorations...me want eat decorations..."

Other possible hazards include decorations that could be ingested, such as fake spiderwebs, as well as electric lights and jack-o-lantern candles.

4) "Scary lady in spandex make me want to get the heck out of here..."

Pets may also be spooked by people wearing costumes, and may try to escape or become aggressive. So be sure they are wearing their collar and pet identification tags or consider tucking them into their bed early  in an enclosed room so they cannot run out the front door!

Did I forget anything? Share your ideas in the comments below and Happy Halloween!

Comments

[Sara]

Also, I'd watch the dog if you put him in a room and throw in some chew toys and if they have a bed,I'm sure they'd appreciate that. Dog alone in room=destruction

[hailey]

this is very helpful!