Is this cute, costumed dog having a Happy Halloween? How to make sure yours does
Costumes, candy, and spooky fun. Halloween should be a joyous occasion for the entire family, including our pets. But the constant doorbell, overwhelming costumes, and the huge amount of treats can make it a scary and sometimes dangerous experience for our pets.
The darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is, as it contains theobromine and caffeine, which pets can’t metabolize efficiently. Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free gums and candies, is incredibly toxic to dogs. It can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and liver failure. Even wrappers can be toxic or cause blockages for pets.
To make sure everything is under control, keep all candy and trick-or-treat bags out of reach. Consider placing them in a secure cupboard or a room your pet cannot access. If you have children in the house, educate them about the dangers of sharing human treats with pets.
Dressing your pet up for Halloween is one of the most adorable things to do, but not all pets enjoy it. If your pet doesn’t mind it, make sure it’s comfortable. If your pet shows any signs of stress, then the costume is a no-go. Also, make sure that the costume doesn’t have small parts that they could chew off.
Constant doorbell ringing and strangers in weird costumes can be very stressful. If you know your pet will be stressed out over these things, then try to provide a quiet room away from the front door where your pet can relax. Give them their favorite toy or blanket and make sure they have water and food (perhaps even some treats). Calming music and a familiar scent can also help. For instance, consider leaving your T-shirt with them.
