Important Halloween safety tips for your pet
Keep Halloween decorations, such as fake spider webs, jack-o’-lanterns with candles, and any toys that could be eaten, out of your pet’s reach.
Never force your pet to wear a costume. Make sure any costume you try is pet friendly, with no buttons, bows, fringe or other choking hazards, and it allows your pet to move freely.
Keep your cat indoors. With increased foot and vehicular traffic outside this time of year, indoors is the safest place to be.
To help prevent stress, keep your pet in a room that’s away from the front door. Play music or turn on the television to mask the sound of the doorbell ringing. Visit your pet throughout the evening and reward him or her with a treat or some play time.
Help for dogs frightened by loud noises. For dogs that become overly excited or nervous during holiday celebrations (e.g., July 4th fireworks, loud Halloween activities) or thunderstorms, we often recommend a new orally administered tranquilizer called SILEO® (from Zoetis). If you would like to know more about this product, please ask your veterinarian.
Is your pet well socialized? Be sure your pet is well socialized and used to being around kids if you plan to bring your pet along for trick-or-treating. Otherwise, it’s best to leave your pet at home.
Dangerous foods. Don’t let your pet indulge in any Halloween candy. Chocolate and the artificial sweetener xylitol can be deadly if dogs eat them. Grapes, raisins and currants can also be hazardous for dogs.
ID tags and microchips. Just in case your pet escapes on Halloween, Thanksgiving or any other day, be sure your pet is wearing an ID tag and the microchip contact information is current.
VCA Neshaminy Animal is located at 4197 E. Bristol Road in Trevose. Call 215-355-1116 to schedule an appointment.
PHOTO CAP: “Princess Leia” says, “princesses come in all shapes and sizes.”