Halloween safety for pets by Mindy Norton

Halloween safety for pets
Halloween is supposed to be scary, but for pets it can be downright dangerous.

Speaking of Pets
October 27, 2007

by Mindy Norton

Trick or treat!

It's time once again for Halloween, and the trick may be to keep your pet safe.

The greatest danger is to pets that are left out in the yard on Halloween, where they could become the victims of vicious pranksters. Find a way to keep your pet inside, perhaps in a garage or laundry room, until the next morning.

Indoor pets may not be safe either, especially because of the candy.

Most folks know that chocolate can be deadly for pets. Candy and chewing gum sweetened with xylitol can also be toxic for dogs. Even the foil or cellophane wrappers around the candy can cause digestive problems if swallowed.

Buy some yummy pet snacks at the pet supply store if you don't want your furry friend to feel left out of the festivities.

And that fake spider web stuff that can be stretched across windows and such - it has been responsible for the death of a number of pets who developed intestinal blockages after making the mistake of eating it.

Keep your pet away from areas where it might encounter such Halloween decorations.

And if you suspect your pet has eaten anything that causes discomfort, call your veterinarian immediately.

Part of the festivities at Halloween involve costumes, and sometimes that includes our pets.

If you are dressing your pet up for photos, that can make for a great picture. But I have some misgivings about putting an animal in a costume, especially if you leave it on the pet for any length of time - it can reduce the pet's ability to see, and restrict its mobility.

Costumes that are secured with rubber bands are especially dangerous because they can cut off circulation and cause permanent damage.

If you go out trick-or-treating, leave your pet at home. With all the loud noises and strange costumes, even a calm animal can become over-excited or stressed. If your pet does go with you, make sure you keep it on a very short leash for everyone's safety.