Keeping Pets Safe on Halloween

Halloween is scary enough without having to worry about the safety and wellness of your pet. The Humane Society of Missouri wants you and your pets to have an exciting holiday, no matter your plans and submits the following tips to remind pet owners of the small things they can do to prevent any mishaps and ensure everyone is having good Halloween fun:

Keep trick-or-treaters at a safe distance.
Pets might be extra spooked by kids carrying big bags brimming with candy. You’ll probably be opening and closing your door often, too. Keep your pets in a familiar room with soothing music and plenty of toys.

Keep the candy away.
Make sure your treats are in a high place where your pets can’t get to them. If your pet accidentally consumes chocolate or candy, please contact your vet or our Animal Medical Center of Mid-America at 314.951.1534 immediately.

Ensure your pet’s ID tag contains up-to-date information.
Opening your door for trick-or-treaters means there’s a chance your pet can slip away. If that happens, it’s important to make sure you can be contacted! Ensure your pet’s ID tag contains up-to-date contact information and, if you haven’t already, consider microchipping as an important way to keep track of your furry friend.

Leave your pet at home when you go trick-or-treating.
As much fun as it would be for the whole family to go out on Halloween, your pet will probably be most comfortable at home, waiting to celebrate with you later. Remember, most pets dislike the confinement of costumes and masks. If your pet does don a costume, make sure you supervise them while they are wearing it!

Don’t forget: Decorations can be dangerous.
Your pet may be curious, and they could get hurt if they chew on your Jack-o’-lanterns or other festive décor.

Contributors: Dr. Nicole Fulcher D.V.M.