Halloween is a fun time of year for many of us, but not all of our pets enjoy the holiday. They can get scared of costumes, lights, or the constant trick-or-treat visitors. Here are some Halloween pet tips to consider. 

Candy
Keep candy out of the reach of your pets. 

• Chocolate can be toxic to dogs. Dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate are more toxic than milk or white chocolate. All chocolate can be toxic if your pet ingests enough of it. 
• Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that may be in some candy. It is very toxic to dogs when ingested and can cause liver failure.
• Upset stomach (such as vomiting or diarrhea) can also be caused by candy ingestion
• Wrappers, sticks from suckers or other packaging have the potential to cause an obstruction if your pet eats them. 
• If your pet ingests candy or the packaging, you can call your veterinarian, local emergency clinic (Veterinary Referral Center or Bend Animal Emergency) or Animal Poison Control (fees may apply when calling poison control). They can advise you on next steps needed for your pet. 

Pet Costumes
Pet costumes can be cute, but your pet may not enjoy wearing them and some can pose health hazards. 

• Do not leave a costumed pet unsupervised
• Choose a costume that does not limit mobility or vision
• Avoid anything that could shift or tighten around a limb or neck
• Make sure the costume is not too hot or too heavy
• Limit the amount of time your pet is in costume
• Avoid costumes with small pieces that could be ingested causing a foreign body

Halloween Night
Pets may find costumes and constant knocks at the door stressful. 

• Keep your pet indoors on Halloween
• During trick or treat time having them in a separate room or crate to keep them from sneaking out the door. 
• Or have a separate family member sit with them and hold them to prevent escape

Decorations

• Avoid candles that could get knocked over or burn your pet
• Watch out for electrical wires/cords that your pet may be tempted to chew on, which can be dangerous
• Your pet may be afraid of certain noises or flashing lights from some decorations

Enjoy Halloween and also make sure to keep your pets safe! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.