Keep Your Dog Safe on Halloween

Halloween is a big holiday at our house and we are always visited by tons of trick or treaters.  Although it’s a day of spooky fun it’s important to keep it safe for Ginger and our special guests.  Below are some suggestions on how to keep the dogs well protected during this night of fright.

First, keep candies and other goodies out of reach.  Dogs may be drawn to the smell of candy and therefore eat it.  They can get extremely ill from ingesting chocolate.  There are other ingredients that can make your dog sick, so it’s best to be mindful and keep it in an area that your dog cannot get into.  If you have not read my blog on Xylitol, please take the time to read it.  That is another dangerous chemical found in many candies and can be fatal to your dog.

If you want to give your dog treats, they sell all types of Halloween themed doggy treats.  You can check out Chewy’s website.  Many times trick or treaters show up with their family pet so you can give them a good bag as well so that they don’t feel left out.

Many trick or treaters will be constantly at your door.  It might be a good idea to keep your dog and guest in a different room.  This will keep them confined and keep them from trying to run outside.

In the event that your dog does run out the door, it’s important for them to have current and visible identification.  Same applies if you plan on taking your dog out.  Make sure that their collars are legible and include their most current information.  You also want to make sure that they have a sturdy collar and leash.  They may get scared with all the ghouls and goblins that they may encounter.

Also, keep any lit pumpkins away from your dog.  Dogs and candles are not a good mix and you want to ensure that there are no mishaps.  This goes for other decorations such as straws and/or cobwebs.  If your dog is a chewer then you definitely; want to keep these out of reach.

Remember to keep your dog inside.  The constant flow of traffic and sounds may make your pup a bit unsettled so it’s best to keep them inside where it is safer.  Sadly, we live in a time where certain individuals cannot be trusted and may take advantage.  The last thing you want is for your pup or guest to be kidnapped during All Hallows Eve so please keep them inside.

Lastly, if you’re dressing your dog for Halloween, please choose a costume designed specifically for pets.  The costume should be non-flammable and non-toxic and should not restrict them in anyway.

 

Following these simple suggestions will ensure that Halloween is not only fun for the family but your pet and guest as well!