Halloween can be a fun and enjoyable celebration for children and their families, but what about pets? If you don't properly care for them, Halloween can turn into a nightmare for them. We understand that animals are individuals, so not all of them will have a bad time, but as you enjoy all the spooky celebrations, try to also see things from your pet's point of view. If you want to ensure a fun time for everyone, take a look at these suggestions that will make it more likely that you and your pet will have a safe and pleasant Halloween.
A treat for you, a trick for your pet.
Keeping all of that Halloween candy on surfaces out of reach of your pet is vital for pet safety. Store all your Halloween candy carefully hidden in a high cabinet secured with a lock or child-safety latch before Halloween and during trick-or-treating. Many foods, including chocolate, gum, and xylitol (a sweetener found in many candies), are toxic to pets. All kinds of chocolate candy in particular can be lethal to dogs and cats. Remember to keep candy, candy wrappers, and decorations out of reach of pets!
Keep your pets inside during trick-or-treat.
Remember to always keep all pets inside during Halloween. This holiday brings a rush of people with guests coming to the door, and too many strangers may often be frightening and stressful for pets, which can cause them to flee your home out of fear of adults and kids in costumes. You may either take them to a different room and away from the door and all the activity, or you can just constantly keep an eye on them whenever the front door is opened and closed to avoid them from slipping out.
Carefully select their costume.
Costumes are entertaining for humans, but not always for our furry friends. If you intend to put a costume on your pet, make sure it fits correctly and doesn’t itch or make them uncomfortable. Verify that it doesn’t have any easily chewed-off portions, and does not interfere with your pet's sight, hearing, breathing, or mobility. A great way to make your pet comfortable with a costume is to take some time to help them get used to it by trying it on some days before Halloween. By doing this, you will know for sure they are ready to have a fun and spooky Halloween with all the family!
Tag your furry trick-or-treater!
If they are startled, your pet might find a way to escape, especially since the front door will be constantly opening and closing due to trick-or-treaters. If your pet manages to escape the house, having the correct identification on them can help them return safely and swiftly. Always make sure their collar and ID tag are both properly fastened and updated. If your pet were to escape for whatever reason, a collar with ID tags or a microchip can be a lifesaver.
With more people trick-or-treating and throwing Halloween parties this year, there will be more pets engaging in the fun. While this can be a pleasant time for both people and pets, keep in mind that your pets rely on you to protect them from the monsters and ghosts that this occasion brings. While caring for your pet on Halloween can be challenging, following these suggestions can help you make it a fun activity for all of the family and hopefully have an amazing Halloween.
A safe environment during Halloween could make it your pet’s favorite holiday because it can be so much fun, so don't waste any time and prepare accordingly for it. Buy the treats, make a costume, plan your itinerary for trick or treating, and decorate your home. Just remember to think of your pet and their comfort while you get ready for a fun and spooky Halloween.