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Beware of These Halloween Hazards!

Beware of These Halloween Hazards!

               Halloween is just around the corner and is a popular holiday that can be a lot of fun. But, for our pets, people in costume, doorbells and the temptation of the contents of trick-or-treat bags could be frightening rather than fun.  Read on for tips to help pets have a fear-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 the costume. Consider something simple but festive like a Halloween-themed bandana or collar instead.  Don’t tease pets who seem scared of costumed people and 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 no one wants to chase a lost pet on All Hallows Eve. Consider crating your pet or keeping her in another room during Trick-or-Treat.  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 could become lodged in the intestinal tract causing an obstruction if enough of them are ingested. Candy and other treats could cause pets to have vomiting or diarrhea. Make sure pets cannot raid those hard-earned candies—don’t share the loot 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 tea 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. 

               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/


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