Pet Tricks And Treats For Staying Safe On Halloween

Kids are not the only ones having fun on Halloween anymore. Pets are now getting in on the action with clever costumes, themed toys and treats, and a night of trick-or-treating with their owner. Although feeding your pet candy or allowing them to go door to door with you and your children sounds like a great idea, here are ONLYforPETLOVERS' top five safety tips that every Pet Lover should follow so that both you and your pet can have a safe and enjoyable Halloween.

Toxic Candy
One of the biggest risks for your pet during the holiday season, especially Halloween, is candy. And although a watermelon jolly rancher poses a choking hazard to your pet, chocolate is the real offender to be watching for.

Chocolate may evoke euphoria within humans, but it's one of the most toxic substances that your pet can consume. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, a compound similar to caffeine. Even in small quantities, this substance can be lethal to both dogs and cats.

Within the first few hours of consumption, symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea and hyperactivity. As time passes, other symptoms can include increase in heart rate, seizures, muscle tremors, coma and eventually, even death. If you suspect your pet has ingested chocolate, contact your veterinarian or nearest emergency animal hospital as soon as possible.

This tasty toxin is everywhere during Halloween. Be sure to keep all candy dishes or treat bags well out reach from your pets. If you take your pet along trick-or-treating, be sure to keep an eye out for dropped candy. Although chocolate is the leading concern during Halloween, other treats high in fat and sugar are hazardous as well. Excessive sugar consumption in animals can upset their insulin levels and in some cases, lead to diabetes. Beware of nuts as well. Not only do they pose a choking hazard but can also cause intestinal upset.

It's not only what's on the inside that counts. Aluminum and plastic wrappers are a common choking hazard for pets, especially cats and puppies. The texture, bright colors and crinkling sound that these wrappers make will often attract pets. Cats will often consume wrappers unintentionally while playing with them, causing intestinal upset or obstruction.

If you want to include your pet in on the festivities, treats catered to pets are safer and healthier than ones catered to humans. Pick up a new bone for your dog. PetSmart recommends a dollop of canned tuna in oil or two tablespoons of heavy cream for your cat. Feeding your pet before the festivities or giving them a special treat may deter them from consuming something potentially fatal.

Decorations and Fluffy Do Not Mix
Tinsel and cats are not the only hazardous pet-decoration combination. Halloweens nighttime festivities often call for lit pumpkins and candles. Cats sneaking around have the tendency to knock over candles and burn themselves. Curious kittens are especially susceptible to getting hurt. All hazardous decorations should be kept out of reach of your furry friend.

Remember, if it's shiny and small, pets have the tendency to eat it. A new chew toy or treat may deter them from gnawing on the decorations so that you can keep your home looking festive and your pet safe.

Shrieks & Boos: Keeping You Pet Calm During the Noisy Night
Between rowdy kids and ringing doorbells, things can get noisy. A night like Halloween can be stressful for your pet. Its best not to leave your pet, especially cats, unattended outside. Even if your cat normally goes out, keep them in that night.

If you expect high traffic in your home, consider creating a safe space for your pet that's away from the commotion. This is especially a good idea for dogs who are easily spooked by loud or foreign noises. A comfortable spot for pets who are easily affected by noise anxiety is always a safe bet on a night like Halloween.

If your dog acts as your personal alarm system at the ring of a doorbell, Halloween night is set to be a long one. Although conditioning your dog to look forward to the ringing of the bell without barking is best, the pets-only area is also a good solution. It may not stop their barking but, it will keep them a bit calmer and at bay.

Keep Your Pets Leashed and Licensed
If you plan on taking your pet with you and your kids trick-or-treating, make sure you use a leash. By keeping them under control, you reduce the risk of losing your pet, having him run into traffic or accidentally harming the scores of people who are bound to be out. Because of the buzzing activity outdoors, it is advised that you leash your put while still inside your home. You don't want to risk your pet darting out the door at an incoming witch or ghost.

In the scenario your pet does get lost, you would want them to have identification. Make sure your pet is outfitted with tags that include your name and phone number. Even if your pet does not need a license, an animal ID tag is a safe bet year-round.

Bad Luck for Black Cats on Halloween
Most adoption shelters cease cat adoption, especially for black cats, during the month of October to avoid possible cat abuse. Halloween is a dangerous time for felines. Because of the past connection between black cats and witches, they are susceptible to being picked up for ritual or sacrifice. To avoid having your cat stolen, keep her inside - no matter her color.