Howl-O-Ween for all: Tips for pet safety

Halloween can be great fun for the whole family. With a little preparation, your pet can have a safe, happy Halloween with the rest of the family.

Going Out:

If you plan to take your pet trick or treating, or to a Halloween party, here are a few safety reminders to keep them in top form:

• Make sure your pet is fit enough for the trip you are planning. While every dog should be walked daily, it is imperative that they are up for the journey on Halloween night.
• Any costumes to be worn must be safe for the pet. This means it should not obscure their vision, impair their movement, and work well with your collar or harness.
• Proper identification should be worn at all times. Even if your pet is microchipped, tags are important to swift identification.
• Pets should be kept on leash with an adult handler. No matter how mild mannered your pet is, he may become frightened of strange Halloween costumes, loud noises, or strange places. The best way to keep your pet safe is to keep him with you.
• Do not let strangers feed your pet. The very best of intentions could lead to your pet consuming something toxic. Instead, bring your own Howl-O-Ween treats and offer them to your pet when he displays his good manners.
• Consider purchasing a reflective collar and leash. If the worst happens, and your pet gets away from you, the reflective gear will help drivers see him and avoid a collision. This is a great investment that will serve you anytime you walk after dark.

Staying In:

• Either keep your pets on leash or confine them so they cannot run out the door when Halloween visitors call. With increased traffic in your neighborhood, the roads will be more dangerous than ever. A baby gate works nicely, allowing your dog to see your visitors without permitting a fast escape.
• Keep pets clear of the Halloween candy. Everyone knows that chocolate is bad for dogs and cats. However, other forms of candy can make them sick. Keep all candy out of reach and contact poison control if you have any concerns about what they may have eaten.
• Stick to their routine. Aside from keeping them happy, feeding them at their normal time means they don’t get hungry and become more likely to raid the candy bowl.
• Plan safe decorations. Keep Halloween decorations (especially those that are stringy) out of reach. Buy nontoxic decorations when possible.
• Confine outdoor pets. Along with increased traffic, you will likely have strangers in your neighborhood for Halloween. Keep outdoor cats close so that they can not get hurt or picked up by a well meaning by-passer.

Your Halloween can be exciting for all them members of your family. Plan for the safety of your furry friends, and your pet will have a great Howl-O-Ween.