Halloween brings candy, decorations and lots of activity around the house. A few simple steps can help keep your pets safe while your family celebrates.
Keep candy out of reach
Halloween candy can be dangerous for pets. Chocolate is toxic to dogs, and sugar-free candy containing xylitol can be especially harmful. Candy wrappers can also make dogs sick if swallowed.
Keep candy where pets can’t reach it and remind children not to share their treats with pets. If your dog eats candy or something else they shouldn’t, call your veterinarian right away.
Give your dog a quiet place to relax
With trick-or-treaters coming to the door, Halloween can be stressful for some pets. All the excitement and open doors also make it easier for dogs to slip outside.
Consider keeping your dog in a quiet, secure room while trick-or-treaters are visiting. Give them a comfortable place to rest and a favorite toy to keep them busy.
Be careful with costumes and decorations
If your dog wears a costume, make sure it fits well and doesn’t make it hard to walk, breathe, see or hear. Avoid costumes with small parts your dog could chew off and swallow. If your dog seems uncomfortable, skip the costume.
Keep candles, electrical cords and small decorations out of reach. Battery-operated lights are a safer choice than lit candles in pumpkins or other decorations.
Make sure your dog’s ID is up to date
Even dogs that normally stay close can slip out an open door. Before Halloween, make sure your dog is wearing a collar with current ID and a valid dog license.
A properly registered microchip can also help identify your dog if they get lost. If your dog isn’t microchipped, consider having one placed. The process is quick, safe and virtually painless. Microchips are a permanent form of identification that can’t fall off or fade over time, making them a smart investment in your pet’s future.
Montgomery County Animal Resource Center offers pet microchipping during regular business hours, with no appointment needed. They also register each microchip at no extra cost, so your pet’s information is ready to help reunite you if they get lost.
Know what to do if your dog eats something they shouldn’t
Candy, glow sticks and pieces of decorations can all be harmful to pets. If your dog eats or chews on something they shouldn’t, contact your veterinarian for advice. Don’t wait for your dog to seem sick before reaching out.
A little planning can help keep Halloween safe for your pets and your family.