Halloween can be exciting for kids, but not so much for pets. Dogs and cats can become anxious or overwhelmed with all of the noise, lights, and movement. The constant ringing of the doorbell, yelling of “trick or treat”, people walking by, and the flashing lights and music from decorations can be too much. Plus, there is the temptation to steal snacks from the candy bowl, which can have disastrous consequences. Here are some tips to keep your dog safer this Halloween.
Give Them a Quiet Retreat of Their Own
Before all of the hustle and bustle starts, put your pet in a separate room where they are away from all of the activity. Give them some toys and treats of their own to keep them entertained and turn on the tv or radio to provide a distraction from what’s happening outside. This will also help prevent your pet from escaping through the front door as trick-or-treaters come and go.
Be Smart About Costumes
If your dog is going to be part of the festivities and dress up, make sure they have a pet-safe costume that fits well and does not restrict their movement, sight, hearing, or breathing. Be cautious about small parts that they might chew off. Try your dog’s costume on ahead of time to see how they respond. If they are clearly in distress or upset over wearing it, don’t force them to keep it on. Consider a bandana loosely tied around their next instead, or just let them go costume-free.
Keep Your Dog on a Leash
Is your pup going to walk around the neighborhood with you? Make sure they are on a non-retractable leash so you have greater control over where they go and can keep them close. Consider adding lights or reflectors to their leash, collar, or harness so they can be more easily seen in the dark. Do not use glow sticks as the fluid inside can make them sick if swallowed.
Steer Clear of Decorations
Keep your dog a safe distance from any jack-o-lanterns that may be lit up with candles as well as decorations they may become tangled in or trip over. Don’t let them chew on any cords or accidentally eat small items such as sticky eyeballs, plastic rings, or glow-in-the-dark accessories.
Put Candy Out of Reach
Candy smells tasty, but it can be toxic and dangerous for dogs, especially if it contains chocolate, raisins, or xylitol. Put bowls, bags, and buckets of treats up high where your dog can’t reach them or put candy in a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
Board Your Pet
If you are planning on having a big party, know that your neighborhood will be full of families and festivities, or are heading out for the night, take steps to make sure your pet is safe and not spooked by all of the activity by boarding them at Lake Wylie Pet Resort. They can have a quiet evening to relax away from all of the ruckus and potential hazards. Contact us today to book your pet’s stay!