Halloween Dog Safety

Halloween can be scary and stressful for a lot of dogs. Every Halloween, your dog’s world is turned upside down with ringing doorbells and excited kids. In addition, the candy that drops to the floor could be hazardous to their health. Here are some tips to keep them safe.

1. Dog costumes. Dogs can look adorable in Halloween costumes. If you decide to dress them up, make sure costumes are simple and loose-fitting. Detailed costumes can make it difficult for dogs to move and cause injury if they get spooked and take off running. If you try a costume on your dog and he seems aggravated or upset, it’s probably best to avoid using a costume. Try a cute bandanna or t-shirt instead.

2. Keep your dog indoors.  It’s probably best to leave him inside behind a secured baby gate, in a closed bedroom, or crated with a safe chewy or food stuffed puzzle toy.

3. Keep decorations out of reach. Keep decorations to a minimum, especially with a young dog or puppy. Wagging tails and excitement can easily knock things over. Nobody wants a Halloween fire caused by a knocked-over candle Jack-o-Lantern.  If you find that your dog enjoys chewing on your newest Halloween decorations, apply bitter apple spray. The spray is a non-toxic, safe, and effective chew deterrent for most dogs.

4. Make sure your dog is wearing identification. Some dogs will do whatever they can to get outside. With your door opening and closing numerous times during all the commotion, their escape can be easier than normal. If they’re wearing their ID and are microchipped, they can safely be returned easily if they sneak out.

5. Seek care immediately. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, the four most common food related hazards for pets around Halloween are:

• Chocolate
• Candy overindulgence
• Raisins
• Candy wrappers

If your pet is showing signs of illness or you think your pet may be poisoned, contact your local veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center ASPCA 888-426-4435 immediately. The sooner you seek medical treatment the better off your dog will be.

6. Throw away glow sticks immediately. Keeping your kids visible during Trick-or-Treating should be your number one priority. If you choose to use glow sticks, make sure you safely throw them away immediately after use. While non-life threatening, the liquid inside the glow sticks can cause: irritation, pain, excessive drooling, and foaming of the mouth.

Have a fun but safe Halloween, everyone. I hope to see you all out for the Autumn Alive! Pet Pageant Costume contest in Quakertown this year!