Halloween Safety Tips for Pets from the Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA

The spookiest night of the year is almost here! Even though Halloween is a festive time for people, it can be a scary and dangerous time for your pets.  The constant noise, unexpected screams, dangling decorations and everything else that goes bump-in-the-night  can spook even the most well-adjusted animal.  Here are some tips to ensure that this 
Halloween is filled with treats and no tricks:

• Walk your dog before the trick-or-treaters start their visits in case your dog becomes frightened by people in costumes.
• Keep your pet safe in the back room during peak trick-or-treating hours as the costumed visitors can frighten your animals.
• Make sure your pet is microchipped and has updated ID tags on his or her collar.  The continuous opening of the door can be a chance for escape.
• Keep candy out of your pet’s reach. Candy with Xylitol, an artificial sweetener, can be harmful to pets. All forms of chocolate can be toxic to cats, dogs and ferrets. If your pet does ingest candy, please contact your veterinarian immediately.
• Be mindful where you put your decorations. Candlelit jack-o-lanterns can be knocked over by a curious pet and become a fire hazard while dangling streamers may invite your pet’s unwanted interest and can be potentially harmful.
• Make trick-or-treating a people only activity. Dogs may become difficult to handle during the noise and confusion of the festivities.
• Be mindful of your pet’s costume. Make sure no dangling pieces are present as it can be a choking hazard for your pet. If your pet does not like its costume, then do not put one on him or her.

Black cats may be targeted by persons lured by Halloween myths, but all animals are vulnerable to malicious pranks. If you see anything suspicious or dangerous regarding animals, please call the Pasadena Humane Society at 626.792.7151, your local police or animal control department.

With that said, have a fang-tastic, fa-BOO-lous and safe Happy Halloween!