This Halloween Safety Tips for Pets post is sponsored by Safeway.
Halloween is coming up and we're getting ready. We've gone to the pumpkin patch, decorated our front porch, and Quincy has even picked out two costumes for Nixie. Luckily, Nixie doesn't mind getting dressed up. Not all pets think Halloween is fun and games, so here are some Halloween safety tips for pets. And if the family pet does love dressing up?
5 Halloween Safety Tips for Pets
Keep pets away from fire and electrical cords.
1. Be aware of fire! Don't leave any lighted candles or carved pumpkins where they could be knocked over by a wagging tail or by a curious cat. They could injure themselves or start a fire. Keep wires and cords from electric lights and other decorations out of reach as well. If they get chewed, your pet could suffer cuts or burns, or receive an electrical shock.
Don't let pets have chocolate!
2. Remember that bowl of candy is for trick-or-treaters, not your family pet. Chocolate —especially dark or baking chocolate—can be very dangerous for dogs and cats. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and seizures. It's not just chocolate though, candy containing the artificial sweetener xylitol can also cause problems in pets. If you do suspect your pet has eaten some people treats please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Be careful when opening the door!
3. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful for pets, never mind the constant doorbell ringing or knocking. Unless your pet is very social they should be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treating hours. Use care when opening the door for trick-or-treaters, so cat or dog doesn't run outside.
Have a plan for lost pets!
4. If your dog or cat should escape and become lost, having the proper identification will increase the chances that they will be returned. Make sure they wear a collar and if they have a microchip that all of the information is all up to date. This will increase the chances of them being returned to you.
Choose the right costume for your pet.
5. If you do decide that Spike or Kitty needs a costume, make sure it isn't annoying, unsafe and that your pet can move easily and see clearly. Please don't put your dog or cat in a costume UNLESS you know he or she loves it.
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Albertsons Safeway. The opinions and text are all mine. The post was originally published in October 2015.
