While Halloween is great fun for most humans, it can be a stressful time for pets. Lots of unfamiliar sounds, lights, and commotion can give your dog or cat anxiety. However, if you follow a few simple pet care tips, you and your furry companions will enjoy this spooky holiday and stay safe.

4 Pet Care Safety Tips for Halloween

1. Keep Them Inside & Away From the Door

When you open your door to trick-or-treaters, your dog or cat may become agitated by the commotion. Keep your pets safely away from the foyer to avoid unnecessary stress and the possibility of their bolting outside. In addition, check that your pet is wearing an ID tag, in case of escape, or have them microchipped before Halloween arrives.

2. Don’t Force Them Into an Uncomfortable Costume

Many animals hate the feeling of clothing, so don’t have your dog or cat wear a cute costume to celebrate the holiday if it causes stress. If your pet tolerates costumes, choose one that doesn’t prevent then from seeing, breathing, moving, barking, or meowing. Also, avoid outfits with loose pieces that may become choking hazards. Perhaps tie on a cute bandana or a bow tie, both of which are simple and festive.  

3. Store Halloween Candy Out of Reach

Practice proper pet care by keeping all candy off the ground and out of reach. Don’t let pets eat any candy, particularly chocolate or any sugar-free candy made with xylitol, a sugar substitute. Both are highly toxic to pets. Contact your veterinarian right away if your pet ingests either one.

4. Be Mindful of Decorations

If you use real candles in your jack-o’-lanterns, keep them safely away from pets. Curious kittens and puppies may accidentally knock over flames and get burned. Tie up any loose electrical cords and dangling ends of decorations. They may quickly become choking hazards or cause electrical shocks if pets are tempted to play with them as toys. 

Learn more about proper holiday and year-round pet care by contacting Liberty Veterinary Hospital in Liberty Township, OH. In addition to standard veterinary services, these pet health professionals offer an online veterinary pharmacy, pet food, pet adoption services, and emergency care treatments. Both the vets and the support staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and happy to help you care for your pets in any way they can. Make your pet an appointment by calling (513) 755-9700, or learn more about twice-a-year routine visits online.