Top Tips On Keeping Pets Safe This Halloween
Halloween is a time for fun and games for most families but it can pose certain threats and risks to our pets. Read our top tips on how to keep your pet safe and calm during the autumn season.
Halloween is a time for fun and games for most families but it can pose certain threats and risks to our pets.
Top tips to keep your pet safe this Halloween
Pumpkins are a classic element of Halloween, and whilst they are non-toxic, they can cause stomach upsets if large amounts are eaten. If you are carving a pumpkin, make sure to move it well out of your pet’s reach and safely remove any excess.
Use electric candles to minimise the risk of singed whiskers and more serious burns. Be careful with sparklers as these can be very frightening to some pets.
Beware of your pet chewing glowsticks! The oily liquid found inside these tastes very bad and can cause severe drooling and foaming at the mouth.
Always check bonfires before lighting them, especially if they have been built for a while. They can form an ideal hiding place for cats and wildlife.
Trick or treat? Popular Halloween treats like sweets and chocolate are toxic to pets, so should always be kept well out of reach. If your pet does manage to eat any treats you should contact your local vet for advice immediately.
Taking your dog trick or treating with you? Make sure that they are microchipped (it’s the law) just in case they become spooked and run away. You can easily get your pet’s microchip checked at your local practice. Always make sure that all your contact details are kept up-to-date.
It's a good idea to make sure your pet is used to the sounds of people knocking on the door and visiting the house to avoid distressing them.
Cats love to seek out cosy hiding places, so make sure they have a comfortable, quiet place to go in the house. If your cat is settled, don't try to cuddle them to keep them calm, just leave them where they are comfortable.
Keep your dog in a cosy, quiet area of the house away from the door so they can't hear the knocking.
Microchipping is a permanent solution that greatly increases the chances that a lost pet will be reunited safely with its owner.
Cats are especially more likely to flee a situation if they feel anxious, so if your cat doesn't come indoors, then make sure they are microchipped and their details are up-to-date in case they become spooked, run away and become lost.