Pets and Halloween

Many people who have pets tend to treat them as part of the family. Like family members, owners care about their pet’s well-being. During times of celebration such as Halloween, many people want their pets to be safe.

Pets can get spooked from goblins and ghouls just like humans. Pet owners can take steps to protect their fur babies. Foremost, one should remember that the trick or treat bags are full of goodies that can be harmful and sometimes fatal for animals.

For example, chocolate or xylitol (a common sugar substitute found in sugar free candy) is very dangerous to pets. Humans should avoid giving their pets chocolate at any time. Unless they’re in a box of chocolates, many of these candies will come in individual wrappers. Candy wrappers can become a choking hazard. If ingested by a dog or cat it can cause a major digestion problem.

With the many costumes and decorations worn and displayed comes additional hazards for animals to have chocking or digestion complications. One should be aware of small items that are easily accessible and keep them out of reach from four-legged friends. People’s homes and front porches may be decked out to welcome treaters, but several ornaments such as fake cobwebs, strung lights, fake blood and glow sticks can potentially be harmful.

Pet owners should also consider the lighted animation. One should secure all plugs and electrical cords above pet levels. Batteries could also be fatal if ingested by one’s cherished pets. Jack-o-lanterns should also be placed in a secure location not to get knocked over.

Additionally, pets are familiar with their owner’s voices, but once the owner dons a costume with masks and make-up that change their appearance, the pet canbecomescared.Petowners should try their best to stay calm when dressed in costume to not scare them. Petcostumescanbedangerous, as well.

Thiscanstresstheanimal and restrict their breathing and movement. It may be a good idea to allow the pet to get comfortable wearing their costume before adding to the anxiety of the actual day. Look for signs that the pet is uncomfortable such as, a tucked tail, folded back ears and a tense posture.

Unfamiliar noises and loud sounds can raise the pet’s anxiety. Just the sound of constant of a doorbell ringing can cause distress for the animals. It might be a good idea to move the pet to a quieter space such as a bedroom. Possibly a family or friends’ home with less commotion for a few hours would make the pet more comfortable.

There are many ways pet owners can keep their animal’s anxiety levels frombecomingaHalloween nightmare. Sometimes just turning on soft music or a TV can mask the sounds. Lastly, make sure the pet has proper ID on their collars and if outdoors keep them on a leash and restrained from those that wanttopetthem.Watchout for pets this Halloween and don’t get spooked.