5 Halloween Pet Safety Tips

While Halloween is a time for festive fun, it’s important for pet owners to take extra precautions to keep their pets safe. Following these simple steps can help ensure your pet's Halloween is filled with treats rather than tricks by avoiding potential hazards like poisoning, injury, or getting lost. 

1. Update Identification. Ensuring that your pet has updated ID tags and microchip information will make it easier to reunite with it should it dash out the door while you are handing out candy.  

2. Beware of Candy. Halloween candy can contain ingredients like chocolate and xylitol (common in sugar free candy), which are toxic to pets, and raisins which can cause your pet’s kidneys to fail. Keep candy away from pets, and never let anyone feed them treats intended for humans. If you suspect your pet has eaten something that could make them sick, call your veterinarian or the Poison Control Center immediately.  

3. Make Decorations Pet-Friendly. Many popular Halloween decorations, such as candles in a jack-o-lantern, can be a hazard to pets. Other often overlooked items that should be kept away from pets include glow sticks, fake cobwebs, potpourri, and costume pieces.  

4. Use Pet Costume Responsibly. If you have a costume for your pet, give them time to get used to it before Halloween, and never leave your costumed pet unattended. Costumes should be checked to make sure they fit properly, are free from choking hazards, and do not block your pet's sight, hearing, breathing, or movement.  

5. Keep Your Pet Indoors. Your pet may be happiest away from the buzz of Halloween fun. Consider keeping your pet away from the front door or in a quiet room during trick-or-treating hours.  

Ellwood Animal Hospital is here to help you keep your pet safe and sound year-round. If you have concerns about your pet’s health or need to request a wellness appointment, call us at (724) 758-8882 or book online today.