Halloween Hazards

Beware of These Halloween Hazards!

               It’s Halloween! While fun for humans, people in costumes, noises and commotion by the door, and the tempting treats could be frightening rather than fun for our pets.  Read on for tips to help pets have a stress-free Halloween.

               Obviously, costumes are a big part of Halloween.  But remember, masks and makeup that change our appearance may stress our pets.  And, while we may find it amusing to dress pets in costumes, not all cats and dogs enjoy wearing them.  If your pet looks stressed, remove his or her costume. Consider something simple but festive like a Halloween-themed bandana or collar instead.  Don’t take pets trick-or-treating unless they are relaxed and well-behaved—they could become overwhelmed walking dark neighborhoods filled with unfamiliar people.

               Trick-or-Treaters visiting your home may also cause stress when knocking or ringing doorbells.  Opening doors to hand out treats could result in pets accidentally slipping outside and becoming lost. Consider crating your pet or keeping him in another room during Trick-or-Treat hours.  Alternatively, you could station yourself on the porch or place a bowl of candy outside with a sign to take a piece to limit distracting noises at the door.

               We all know chocolate is off limits for pets, but remember to be cautious of other treats, too.  Sugar free candy and gum containing the artificial sweetener xylitol can be toxic to pets.  Candy wrappers are sometimes more of a hazard than the candy itself, as they could become lodged in the intestinal tract causing an obstruction if a large number are ingested. Candy and other treats may also cause vomiting or diarrhea if your pet partakes. Make sure pets cannot raid those hard-earned loot bags—don’t share candy with pets and keep trick-or-treat bags well out of reach!

               Jack-O-Lanterns containing candles can pose a fire hazard if knocked over. Keep lit candles away from pets. Better yet, use a battery powered light instead of the real thing to light your pumpkin.  On the plus side, canned pumpkin IS a good treat for pets, but be sure to prevent pets from eating carved pumpkins which can sometimes become moldy or may have been treated with bleach and could make pets sick. 

Summer corn season is over but dried corn cobs and corn stalks often figure prominently in fall décor and corn cobs may still be found in empty corn fields. Dogs may ingest corn cobs which pose a huge risk for causing an intestinal obstruction. Never allow dogs to chew on or play with corn cobs. Make sure any decorations using cobs are safely away from pets and do not allow dogs to roam unattended in corn fields.  If you suspect your dog may have eaten a corn cob, particularly if she is not eating or has been vomiting, have your him seen by a vet immediately-she will likely need surgery to remove the cob.

               If your pet seems super stressed by Halloween festivities, there are a variety of supplements, pheromones and medications that may help keep your pet calm.  Ask our vets for suggestions if you have a panicky pooch or scaredy cat. While we might enjoy a good scare, our furry friends shouldn’t be frightened on Halloween night!

Patton Veterinary Hospital wishes all our clients and patients a safe and Happy Halloween!

               This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

https://www.drmartybecker.com/fear-free/fear-free-halloween/