Happy Halloween to all of our dog lovers! As much some of us may love this time of year, it is easy to forget the extra stress and health risks that it can pose on our furry friends. Here are some friendly tips and tricks on how to keep our cuddly companions safe during the Halloween season.Hanging your Halloween decorations out of reach
Throughout the Halloween season, it is easy to get distracted by all the decorations and party planning. With that said, it is important to keep in mind where you place your spooky decorations. As fun as these decorations are, they can often become a very dangerous choking hazard for our pets which could lead to suffocation or an avoidable trip to the vets. Whilst decorating your home remember to place your decorations high and out of reach from those curious paws.
Loud bangs and whistles of fireworks may be thrilling for us on Halloween, but for our dogs, it can be stressful and confusing
Many dogs show signs of distress when exposed to the sound of fireworks, these signs may be subtle, such as lip licking, yawning and panting but as they become frightened they might pace around the house, tremble, go to the toilet indoors and become destructive. In the weeks following Halloween, and with Bonfire Night, Christmas and NYE around the corner fireworks are more prevalent so it is important to recognise that all of these signs are stress induced. It is much easier to be prepared and prevent your dog from becoming stressed than it is to calm a dog already showing signs of extreme mental anxiety. You can read our vet’s tips to help prevent your dog becoming stressed by fireworks here.
Human treats are not safe for our pets
While it might be tempting to share some of those treats you have ready for the trick-or-treaters, be aware that they may not be safe for our pets. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is often found in our favourite Halloween goodies. Whilst this ingredient is perfectly safe for humans it can cause insulin release, low blood glucose and liver toxicity in dogs when eaten in large amounts.
The substances contained in chocolate affect the central nervous system, cardiac and skeletal muscle. Dark chocolate is more dangerous than milk chocolate but all are best avoided.
Fancy dress is fun but it’s not for everyone
One of the best parts of Halloween is being able to dress up for the night. As fun as it is to have our dogs join in on the fun, it is important to remember they most likely have no idea why they are dressed as a pumpkin. Although some of our dogs may love their new look, make sure to notice any signs of stress or anxiety.
In good company
On Halloween night, try to ensure that your dog has a safe place to stay in case of late night visitors. A dog’s hearing is much superior to our own, and so those loud bangs from anxious trick-or-treaters are all the more distressing to our pets. If you want to go out to celebrate try to get your dog a babysitter or even better drop them off for a Halloween play date.
Spooky pumpkin carvings may become even spookier for our dogs
As fun as it is to light a candle in our carved pumpkins, be wary of how this may become a risk for your dog. Your dog may become curious and accidentally burn their paws, nose or even knock the candle over creating a fire. This could pose a serious safety risk for you, your dog and your home. If you want to decorate your house with candlelit pumpkins be mindful of where you place your spooky creations.
The team at Protect My Pet wish you and your pets a very happy Halloween!