Halloween is just around the corner! This means costume time, parties, and sweet treats to enjoy! As much as the kiddies (and some of us adults too!) look forward to the holiday, this does not necessarily hold true for our dogs and cats. Halloween can be a scary and dangerous time for them!

We want to keep our fur kids to be safe, so here are 5 tips for you so your pets will remain safe and sound!

  • Keep that candy out of reach of your dog! Yes, even if the candy is still wrapped. There are many a dog that can smell a fully wrapped chocolate bar from the next room! Chocolate and candy is a big no-no for your dog! Do not leave the bowl of candy unattended. Many pet stores sell holiday-themed treats that are safe for consumption for dogs and cats. If you simply can’t resist giving your animal a Halloween treat or two, head to your local pet store so you will have appropriate treats on hand.
  • Do not allow your dog to go trick or treating with the kids! Animals can easily become frightened. Remember, it will be dark outside and there will be many costumed children running excitedly from door-to-door. Your dog can become scared and could potentially bite a child. Or your dog could end up pulling out of their collar because something frightened them, and they take off running into the night.
  • Keep your dog and cat inside. Better yet, keep your dog and cat confined to a safe room, so you do not have to worry about them escaping each time you open your front door to the costumed goblins.
  • Reconsider your desire to put your dog or cat in a costume. Some dogs may tolerate a costume; most cats will not. Unless you are certain your dog or cat will be comfortable in a costume, and no matter how cute you think they look, please think twice before proceeding! You might want to do a trial run and see how they adapt to the costume. If they are less then enthused, please do your animal a favor and forgo a costume for them.
  • Should the unthinkable happen and your dog or cat should escape on Halloween night, please be certain they have proper identifications tags on their collar. Your pet should also be microchipped as well. Do not rely on identification tags only and do not rely on only a microchip. All animals should have both as this will increases the odds your animal will be returned to you.

If you keep these guidelines in mind and make plans to prepare ahead of time, everyone will be able to enjoy the holiday and all 4-legged animals and their humans will have a safe Halloween!