Dressing your furry little friends in themed outfits is always a fun activity, but many dog owners don’t realize that Halloween can be a dangerous holiday for pets. In addition to loud sounds and unfamiliar visitors, candy—especially chocolate—can be poisonous and land pets in the veterinary hospital. Here is a little more information about how this holiday can impact dogs and how your vet can help. 

A Veterinary Hospital’s Guide to Dogs & Halloween

Is Chocolate Really Poisonous to Dogs? 

Yes. Chocolate contains methylxanthines like theobromine and caffeine. Theobromine is a naturally occurring compound found in cacao beans; like caffeine, it has some energizing effects. While methylxanthines are generally safe for humans, dogs are particularly sensitive to them. Additionally, artificial sweeteners commonly used to make candy lead to health complications like increased heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle rigidity, coma, and even death. Dark and semi-sweet chocolates are the most likely to send your pet to the veterinary hospital due to their methylxanthine content, but milk and white chocolates can also cause problems because they contain more sweeteners. 

How Can I Protect My Pet During Halloween?  

During Halloween, candy is everywhere, especially in a neighborhood teeming with children. Because kids don’t always understand that their treats aren’t safe for pets, you should never leave your dog unattended during Halloween. If you keep candy in the house, place it in a high cabinet your dog can’t reach; as you hand out snacks to trick-or-treaters, keep your pet enclosed in their kennel or a comfortable room until the festivities are over. The next morning, monitor your pet carefully and check the house for loose candies and wrappers.

Is There Anything Else My Pet Shouldn’t Eat?

While chocolate is a popular Halloween treat, it isn’t the only goody in kids’ bags. Sweets like caramel and candy corn contain high levels of sugar that can lead to pancreatitis. Even natural snacks like raisins can pose health risks—like fresh grapes, the natural compounds in the dried fruit can affect dogs’ kidneys. No matter what your kids bring home from trick or treating, remind them to put all wrappers in the trash to keep your dog from accidentally eating them.

If your dog ingests Halloween candy and packaging despite your best efforts, the team at Hilton Veterinary Hospital of Monroe County, NY, will be ready to help. In addition to checking your pet’s vital signs and talking with you about which symptoms to watch out for, this experienced team of veterinarians will take any necessary emergency measures to keep your pet safe after an accident. To find out more about scheduling an appointment, visit the veterinary hospital online or call (585) 392-2937.