Oct 1st, 2024 9.00pm Rebecca Longmore

Top Halloween pet safety tips to keep your furry friends safe

As halloween approaches , its crucial to ensure your pets remain safe and stress-free during the festivities. Here are the top tips to keep your pets safe and secure this spooky season. 

Keep chocolate and sweets out of reach

Halloween sweets and chocolate can pose a serious health risk to pets. Chocolate, in particular, is toxic to dogs and cats and many sweets contain Xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is highly poisonous to pets. Keep all sweets, chocolate and sweet treats away from pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

Ensure that your children and guest are aware of the dangers and remind them not to share their Halloween goodies with your pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested something harmful contact your local veterinarian immediately. 

Create a safe space for your pet

Halloween can be a stressful time for your pets due to the constant doorbell ringing, doors knocking, unfamiliar visitors and noisy festivities. Create a quiet safe space for your pet where your pet can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. This can be a separate room with their favourite toys, bed and some calming music to help drown out the noise.

Make sure your pet has access to fresh water and check on them periodically to ensure they are comfortable. This safe space will help reduce stress and anxiety, keeping your pet calm and safe for the evening.

Choose pet-freindly costumes if you want to dress your pet

While dressing up your pet can be fun, its important to choose costumers that are safe and comfortable. Avoid costumes that are too tight, have small chewable parts or that obtruct your pets vision and movement. Make sure your costume allows your pet to breathe, bark, meow and move freely.

Always supervise your pet while they are in a costume and remove it if they become distressed or uncomfortable. If your pet isn't a fan of costumes then consider alternatives like festive bandannas or collars that are less intrusive.

Be cautious with Halloween decorations

Halloween decorations can be intriguing but dangerous for pets. Keep candles, string lights and electrical cords away from pets to prevent burns, shock or entanglement. Be mindful of small decorations that can be easily swallowed, causing choking or intestinal blockages.

Ensure any decorations that take batteries are secure, as swallowed they can cause severe internal injuries. Opt for pet safe decorations and always supervise your pet around new and unfamiliar decorations.

Pay attention to your pets behaviour

Monitor your pets behaviour throughout the Halloween festivities.Signs of stress and anxiety make include excessive barking, panting, hiding, drooling and aggressive behaviour. If your pet seems stressed or frightened remove them from the situation and place them in their safe place. 

Keep an eye on their eating and drinking habits as well. If you notice any changes or signs of stress contact your registered veterinarian for help to manage your pets anxiety during the holiday.