Halloween is drawing near, and you're sure to be prepping for an evening filled with frights and delights! While you do, remember that your furry friends may need some readying for the holiday as well. Need to know how to keep your pal safe during this ghoulish season? Curbicus has the guide to ensuring that Halloween is a breeze for you and your dog.
Keep Those Treats Out of Reach
Halloween candy and snacks are a highlight of the night for humans, but they can be dangerous to your four-legged companions. Chocolate, raisins, and a common sweetener called Xylitol can be fatally toxic to household pets, while ingredients like coconut and almonds can cause digestive issues and diarrhea. Even discarded wrappers can be hazardous, as they can cause choking or intestinal blockage. Be sure that your Halloween candy and wrappers stay out of the reach of pets, and that you have the number of an emergency vet or animal poison control center in case of accidental ingestions. For instance, the ASCPA has a 24-hour Poison Control hotline at 888-426-4435 (though be warned, they may charge a consultation fee).
Jack-o-Lanterns, Glow Sticks, and Fake Blood – Oh No!
In addition to treats, Halloween decorations and costumes can offer some tricky challenges for dogs. For instance, while pumpkin can be healthy for pups in small amounts, larger portions can cause loose stools and stomach problems, and rotting pumpkins can harbor bacteria. Lit candles can lead to accidental burns for wagging tails or curious noses, while glow sticks and fake blood can have toxic ingredients. Be sure to keep these harmful substances out of Rover’s reach, and keep a close eye on small costume accessories or kids’ toys that can be tempting chewing/choking hazards.
Festive Frights are Fun for Humans, But Not Dogs
The sounds, smells, and activity of Halloween can be extremely stressful for even the most chill of dogs, so it’s important to create an environment that’s safe and secure. Dogs should never be left unattended outdoors during Halloween, so keep furry friends inside and out of harm’s way. If your dog is bothered by knocking or doorbells, consider securing them in a quiet room or kennel with their favorite toys, or sitting outside your front door to await treat-or-treaters in order to limit noise levels. This can also prevent dogs from slipping out of a door repeatedly being opened for trick-or-treaters or Halloween party guests. Still, make sure your dog’s microchip and ID information is up to date, just in case they make a break for it.
Costumes are Great for the ‘Gram, But Not Necessarily for the Night
Dog costumes are adorable, but can cause discomfort and anxiety, particularly for pups who are not used to wearing them. Minimal costumes are typically best, but if you’re going for something more elaborate, make sure that it fits your pet properly and that they can move freely and comfortably while wearing it. Avoid masks and hats that obstruct the eyes and mouth, and look for body language that shows your dog is not enjoying their new outfit, like folded down ears, a hunched back, or a tucked tail. Check the costume for small or dangling parts that can be chewed off, and remove them before they become choking hazards.
Lastly, never leave a dog unattended while they are wearing a costume. Halloween is a time for celebrating the spooky side of life, but as pet owners, we want to make sure that our dog’s holiday is all treats, no tricks. Following these expert-approved safety tips can keep you and your best friend in the Halloween spirit for years to come. Happy hauntings!
Curbicus is a revolutionary, mess-free product that allows pet owners to quickly clean up after their animals. Have a question? Reach out to the team today to learn more.
Author: Cara Broel, LinkedIn
Image: https://unsplash.com/photos/a-dog-sitting-in-front-of-a-bunch-of-pumpkins-qDrQ_6YlBZk