Trick-or Treat! Halloween is here, and though you might get a kick out of the adorable witches and ghosts who come to your door, your dog may not be as thrilled. Halloween can be a fun time for children and families, but what about your dog?
Halloween is usually pretty loud and chaotic, much different from any other “normal” day of the year. Be aware that all those fun Halloween activities we enjoy might be stressful for your dog. Unusual activities like constant doorbell ringing and costumed visitors can all pose threats, causing your dog anxiety whether they are usually prone to it or not. Dogs are creatures of habit, and when their normal routine is interrupted they can feel uncomfortable and even agitated – Halloween is no exception. Keep your pets safe this year by following these easy tips.
1 – TRICK-OR-TREAT CANDY IS NOT FOR DOGS
ALL forms of chocolate can be dangerous, even lethal, for dogs. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and seizures. There are also many candies containing the artificial sweetener xylitol which is also poisonous to dogs; even small amounts of xylitol can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar and subsequent loss of coordination and seizures.
2 – DON’T LEAVE YOUR DOG OUT IN THE YARD
Vicious pranksters have been known to tease, injure, steal, and even kill pets on Halloween night. Inexcusable, yes! But preventable nonetheless.
3 – KEEP YOUR PUP CONFINED, BUSY AND AWAY FROM THE DOOR
Your door will be constantly opening and closing, and your doorbell with ringing constantly. Strangers will also be on your doorstep dressed in unusual costumes, this can be scary for our furry friends, which can result in escape attempts or unexpected aggression. Putting your dog in a secure crate or room away from the front door will reduce stress and prevent issues. Give them a toy, chew, bone or activity to keep them busy during this time.
For nervous animals, the screams of kids and the endless chiming of doorbells can become overwhelming. You can use calming products like those you might use during a thunderstorm or fireworks to bring your dog some relaxation and relief during Halloween as well.
4 – KEEP HALLOWEEN PLANTS SUCH AS PUMPKINS AND CORN OUT OF REACH
Although pumpkin is a wonderful super-food for your pup, the potentially moldy Halloween pumpkins or corn display that has been sitting out can cause big problems. Gastrointestinal upset is a possibility whenever pets eat something they aren’t used to, and intestinal blockage can occur if large pieces are swallowed. So, keep the pumpkins and corn away from your pups.
5 – KEEP YOUR DOG AWAY FROM LIT PUMPKINS
If you are using candles to light your jack-o-lanterns or other Halloween decorations, be sure to place them well out of reach. Should your dog get too close, they run the risk of burning themselves or causing a fire.
6 – KEEP ELECTRIC AND BATTERY-POWERED DECORATIONS OUT OF REACH
As with any holiday decorations, electric and battery-powered decorations are certainly safer than candles, but they still can present a risk. Dogs who chew on electrical cords can receive a possibly life-threatening electrical shock or burn. Batteries can cause chemical burns when chewed open or gastrointestinal blockage if swallowed. Glass or plastic if chewed and swallowed can cause lacerations anywhere on the body and within the gastrointestinal tract.
7 – DON’T DRESS YOUR PET UP UNLESS YOU ARE CERTAIN THEY’LL LOVE IT
Not all dogs are comfortable wearing costumes. If you do decide to dress up your pup, make sure the costume does not restrict movement, hearing, eyesight, or the ability to breathe. Always supervise your dog while they are wearing a costume so that if something goes wrong, it can be addressed immediately.
Additionally, don’t wait until Halloween night to put your pet in a costume for the first time. Any time you introduce your pup to something new, it’s best to go slow. Get your costume early, and put them on for short periods of time and make it a positive experience by offering lots of praise and treats.
8 – PLEASE! MAKE SURE YOUR DOG IS WEARING AN ID
If your dog could escape and become lost, having the proper identification will increase the chances that he or she will be returned. Collars and tags are ideal if a Good Samaritan finds your pup, but microchips offer a permanent identification should the collar or tag fall off. Please be sure the information is up-to-date.
Halloween can be a little intimidating for a dog who doesn’t understand all the hoopla. When it comes to your furry friend, be mindful of where you put the chocolate, exercise him early to drain his energy, and reward him with dog-safe treats when he is non-reactive to trick-or-treaters. Above all else, Halloween should be fun for the whole family including your furry friends. Keep these tips in mind during your festivities to ensure everyone stays safe and have a wonderful time.
Happy Halloween!