Halloween is fun for both pets and their owners, but there are some potential dangers that could necessitate a trip to a pet hospital. Fortunately, you can take steps to make the holiday safe and enjoyable for everyone, including your pet. 

Do: 

Carefully introduce costumes.

Have your pet try on their costume once or twice before the festivities begin so they can get accustomed to it and you can ensure it’s safe for them to wear. Some costumes limit movement, cause discomfort, or restrict breathing.

You don’t want to interrupt the holiday to go to a pet hospital, so don’t use anything with rubber bands, which can dig into your pet’s fur and irritate their skin. If your pet tries to bite off the band, they may swallow it and choke. Also, avoid covering their eyes or ears, as this may disorient them.

Keep them away from the doors. 

Whether you’re greeting trick-or-treaters or having a party, the constant presence of strangers will likely unnerve your pet. As a result, they may lash out aggressively or try to escape outside, where they may get lost or become the victim of harmful Halloween pranks. It’s usually best to confine them in a safe room. 

Place toys and decorations out of reach. 

Jack-o’-lanterns lit with candles and decorations powered by electrical cords or batteries all have the potential to burn and injure your pet. Set these items on high shelves, ledges, or desks that are hard to reach or behind furniture where you can hide power cords. Your pet then can’t get close or chew on the wires. Keep glow sticks away from them too, as your pet may bite them open. 

Don’t: 

Let them eat festive foods. 

Giving candy to your animal will likely require a trip to a pet hospital. For dogs and cats, chocolate can induce seizures, respiratory problems, rapid heart rate, vomiting, and diarrhea. Xylitol, an artificial sweetener, quickly and drastically reduces blood sugar in dogs in addition to causing seizures. Uncooked pumpkin or corn can also cause gastrointestinal issues or even blockages as well as neurological damage.

Leave trash out.

When you open candies and decorations, take the wrappers and boxes straight to the trash. Some pets will try to eat them out of curiosity, which can lead to choking or indigestion.

Take off their IDs. 

If you dress your pet up in an ensemble that doesn’t easily accommodate an ID, either alter the costume or do without the getup entirely. If your pet runs off, the ID will help you get them back.

If you need an emergency trip to a pet hospital on Halloween, head to Waipio Pet Clinic in Waipahu, HI. With their focus on animal wellness for cats and dogs, the veterinarians use only the latest techniques and equipment to treat your pets. To schedule a visit, call them at (808) 676-2205, or check out their current specials online.