This year, Americans are projected to spend a record $13.1 billion on Halloween. All these dollars pay for candy, costumes and decorations, all of which add great delight for humans, but candy, costumes and decorations may not be so fun for your pet. Here are some DOs and DON’Ts to help keep your pet safe this spooky season.
Candy
Sly children will try to hide the Halloween bounty in their rooms. Chocolate, as well as candy containing raisins or xylitol, can be toxic to pets and land your furry friend in the animal ER. Make sure candy is safely stored out of the reach of hungry pets, and remind children to keep Halloween candy away from pets. A quick family chat about candy safety is a definite DO for your Halloween preparations.
Costumes
There is nothing cuter than a pet in a Halloween costume—but not every animal enjoys dressing up. DO review the tips on costume safety for pets from AMC’s Usdan Institute for Animal Health Education, and DON’T dress your pet up if they resist the darling costume purchased for them.
Avoid masks and costumes with flashing lights or battery-operated features that can be scary for pets. When greeting trick or treaters, DO be sure your pet is safely confined so they don’t escape out the door if frightened. Halloween is a good time to confirm your pet’s microchip registration is up to date, and DO put a collar with an ID tag on your pet for extra identification in case of an unexpected breakout.
Decorations
I love walking around New York City close to Halloween. Skeletons dangle from windows, giant spiders hang in elevators and fake cobwebs are everywhere. While these decorations contribute to the festive atmosphere, some can be dangerous for pets. Take carved pumpkins, for example. DON’T let your pet nibble on jack-o-lanterns or you may be faced with a bad case of tummy upset, especially if the pumpkin is starting to mold. DO use battery-operated candles in your pumpkin rather than the real ones. Curious pets can tip over the pumpkin starting a fire or worse catch their own fur on fire.
A Final Warning
DON’T add to your Halloween spending this year with a trip to the animal emergency room. Plan ahead and keep Halloween hazards away from your pets!