Halloween Pet Safety Tips

Share:

Tweet

How to celebrate a fun, harmless Howl-o-Ween with your pets.

Halloween celebrations are kicking into full swing this weekend, but the festivities may not be as fun for pets as they are for children, teenagers and adults alike.

Pets are not likely to be used to — or appreciate — the constant action that comes with Halloween, from the doorbell ringing of trick-or-treaters to the colorful costumes that might scare, more than thrill, them. Pet owners should resist the urge to dress their pets in elaborate costumes, especially ones that involve masks and may be uncomfortable.

Dogs will likely silent thank their owners if they decide to leave them at home when it comes time to trick-or-treat.

“For your pet’s comfort and safety, the best thing that you can do is to make sure that they have a stress-free holiday,” said Adam Goldfarb, director of the Pets at Risk program for The Humane Society of the United States, in a media release. “The noises, smells and people can be overwhelming for many pets on Halloween, so create a safe haven in one room of your home where he or she can quietly relax.”

The HSUS also cautions pet owners to watch out for pets getting a hold of candy, especially chocolate, which can be toxic. Seemingly innocuous items like fake cobwebs may also prove dangerous for a curious pet, if he or she tries to chew on it and chokes.

That isn’t to say that people can’t find a fun, safe way to enjoy Halloween with their pets, who may be more apt to have a good time in an animal-friendly environment. Halloween provides an opportunity for unique adopt-a-thons.

Other stores and retailers are also joining in the fun, celebrating a howlin’ Halloween with events from microchipping to adoption fests and costume parties. Check your local area for related happenings.

How do you keep your pets happy on Halloween? Do you know of pet-themed events celebrating the holiday in your area? Tell us below!