Spooky season is upon us! Halloween season is an enjoyable time for both children and adults. While many like to include their pet in this holiday, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that your pet will be safe, happy and healthy. Grab your PSLs and pup-accinos and settle in for some pet safety tips for Halloween.
Be Mindful of Decorations
Decorating your house with spooky décor may be a tradition for you during Halloween, however, it’s important to be mindful of the decorations you put up and where. Some items may be a choking hazard (such as tinsel, plastic spiders, fake webs) or cause pets to become tangled. If you are stringing up Halloween themed lights, make sure the cords are tucked away from curious mouths. When lighting candles inside of your jack-o-lanterns, double check that the pumpkins are on a sturdy safe surface so they won't get knocked over. Place glass décor items up high and out of reach of pets.
Costumes Aren’t for Everyone
Some pets absolutely LOVE being dressed up and have zero problems donning the latest Halloween styles, but…others may not feel the same way. Always make sure your pet is 100% comfortable being placed in a costume. If the get up includes some kind of face covering, ensure that it fits well and your pet can see and breathe comfortably.
If there are any signs of distress, don’t force your pet. They will look just as cute au natural.
Candies are for Kids (big and small) ONLY
With Halloween comes…CANDY! A large variety of sweets can be found in many houses during this time. While delicious for humans, candy can be dangerous for pets. Chocolate is a big no-no as it is toxic to pets. The darker the chocolate the higher the theobromine content, which is the chemical that dogs can't metabolize and ends up making them seriously ill. Some candy items may contain xylitol (like gum), a sugar fee substitute that is poisonous to pets. Carelessly discarded wrappers may also present a choking hazard or obstruct bowels if ingested. When you and your family are enjoying the collected sweets, make sure to keep all pieces and garbage away from your pets.
Keep Pets Inside & Create a Safe Space
If you’re handing out candy this year, it’s important to keep your pet away from the main door. Halloween can be a stressful time for pets and they may have the urge to bolt outside. Create a safe space for pets away from traffic and the constantly opening door. It’s ideal to keep your pet inside as dogs may bark outside at the constant visitors or become spooked by the costumes and try to leave the yard. Cats, especially black ones, may be targets during the night. Make sure to have collars with ID tags on all pets, just in case.
All Natural Pet Treats, No Tricks
With all the excitement and goodies for us humans, we want to make sure to include our pets in the fun too! Chews and treats may help distract and keep your pet calm while people visit your door. Treat them with some Puppy Love Pet Products - all natural, completely digestible with NO additives, preservatives or chemicals. 100% treat goodness, no tricks needed.