The Halloween season is always a time of festivities and fun; but it could easily turn into a nightmare if you’re not careful. Keep reading
for some helpful tips on how to have a safe and fun Halloween with your pets.
At Home
Whether you’re hosting a party or just handing out candy, you want to keep a close eye on the food you have out. Here are a few tips to help keep you pets safe:
- Keep all candy bowls out of reach and on a stable surface that cannot be knocked down.
- With parties, trash bins fill up quickly! So make sure the bags are checked and changed out accordingly to prevent your pet from sneaking a snack.
- Costumes often come with little accessories. These can be a choking hazard for your pet and could also cause an intestinal blockage if they are big enough. Remember to keep those pieces in a safe place where they don’t get lost or eaten by your pet.
- Decorations such as string lights, garland, and tabletop decor can also be choking hazards for your pets. Keep these in an area not easily accessible to them.
Trick or Treating
Dressing your pets up to take them out trick or treating is fun and memorable for your kids; but there are some details that should be considered to keep the evening enjoyable.
- Be mindful of your pets comfort level. Going out trick or treating means lots of excited kids dressed up in a variety of crazy costumes. Before venturing out, make sure your pet is comfortable with loud noises, face coverings, and crowds of people. The evening isn’t as fun if you have to worry about your pet getting scared.
- No retractable leashes. You won’t be the only one out with your pets, which means you’ll have to be conscious of those around you. Use a non-retractable leash to have better control of where your pet goes and to reduce the likelihood of an altercation with another pet close to you.
- Secure collars and harnesses. Along with a non-retractable leash, check that your pet’s collar or harness is secure so they aren’t able to slip out.
- Keep on eye on your kids’ candy bags. Pets can be sneaky! As you’re walking around, make sure your pet isn’t sneaking some goodies out of your kids’ candy bags.
- Be aware of snacks being handed to your pet. Some families who are handing out candy may have treats for your pets as well. Rather than allow them to give it to your pet, have them give the treats to you first so you can ensure they are pet friendly and not something your pet is allergic to.
