|
Petland knows Halloween can be fun and festive for all family members - both two- and four-legged. However, animal lovers need to be aware of the dangers that this bewitching holiday presents to their pets.
Halloween can be a very intimidating holiday for a pet. There are loud noises, people disguised in scary costumes and many other new sights and sounds that pets are not accustomed to experiencing. When the goblins are walking the neighborhood streets, running door to door, knocking, and shouting for candy, it is best that pets be secured in the house - out of harm’s way.
Secluding pets in a quiet room away from all the Halloween activities is ideal. This helps to ensure that the pets won’t make a break for it and escape when trick-or-treaters arrive, nor will they act out and become aggressive at the sight of unsuspecting, costumed guests.
Keep pets inside, secure candy wrappers
Extra caution should be taken with lit pumpkins and candles, as a curious pet can knock them over and possibly start a fire, or even burn itself. It also is a good idea to restrict a pet’s access to other decorations such as streamers and typical holiday waste such as cellophane wrappers, foil papers and lollipop sticks. Both cats and dogs can become severely ill from swallowing or eating these items.
Responsible pet owners need to remember a few key safety tips when walking pets outside on Halloween.
Pets should be kept on a shorter-than-normal leash and away from groups of children and other pets. Pet owners should walk their pet earlier in the evening, before it gets dark, and have collars and identification tags on at all times, just in case the pet manages to get away.
Supervise costumed pets
Many pet owners enjoy dressing their precious pets up in festive costumes. However, caution is advised when dressing up Fido or Fluffy.
It is important to pick out a costume that is lightweight and non-constricting to the pet. Do not use tight elastics such as rubber bands, as they can constrict a pet’s blood flow and become tangled in the fur. Most importantly, never leave a costumed pet alone, unsupervised. The pet may chew up and ingest pieces of the costume or become tangled up with one of the costume’s sashes or ties. Both situations could cause serious harm to the pet.
Protect black cats from age-old superstitions
Cats have been given many mystical powers through the years. History and superstition have linked felines to witchcraft, making the cat the most likely pet to be talked about on October 31. The black cat, in particular, is a black mark according to many cultural superstitions.
Remember that superstitions are just that - irrational beliefs in particular things or circumstances. Usually, there is very little, if any truth to superstitions. However, these beliefs can cause good people to make bad choices, including harming a pet at Halloween.
Owners of black cats are advised to keep their felines indoors during the whole month of October. If you see anyone abusing a pet this Halloween, then please contact the proper local authorities.
Chocolate not safe for pets; offer safe substitutes
Many pets have a sweet tooth - and Halloween for a pet can be the equivalent of a kid in a candy store. Pet owners should not share any candy, especially chocolate, with their furry friends, as it can be toxic to both cats and dogs.
Never give a pet chocolate. Even a small amount can cause great discomfort. Severe stomach pains, vomiting, diarrhea, labored breathing and even seizures can strike a pet after ingesting chocolate. Immediate veterinary care may be needed to reverse the ill effects of what began as a tasty treat.
Chocolate contains theobromine. It is a substance that is easily digested by humans, but can, in large quantities, be fatal to pets. Ten ounces of milk chocolate and considerably less of unsweetened baking chocolate can qualify as a lethal dose for small pets, especially those weighing 20 pounds or less.
A handful of chocolate candies could mean the kiss of death to your best friend. Giving a pet chocolate is not worth the risk of illness. If a pet accidentally gets into some chocolate and there is no indication how much it has eaten, a veterinarian should be contacted immediately.
If a pet begs for chocolate, it is advised to have safe treats on hand to give them this Halloween. Many treats, advertised as "chocolaty" for pets, are made of pet-safe carob.
|
