Halloween Safety

Chocolate and other candies are Halloween staples but these tasty treats can be a literal nightmare for a pet who sneaks into the candy dish or your child’s trick-or-treat stash. Not only is chocolate toxic to pets, but so is xylitol, a popular sugar substitute. Xylitol is common in sugar-free gums and candies and can cause a pet to experience a severe blood sugar drop. Most sweet treats are high in fat or sugar, which can lead to pancreatitis. And, don’t forget about the wrappers! If your pet eats candy wrappers and other packaging, the material can become lodged in their intestinal tract, and your veterinarian may have to perform surgery to remove it. If you’re handing out candy, ensure the bowl isn’t accessible to your pet, and remind children not to share their treats with their furry friends. 

Ditch decorations that are dangerous for pets 

Halloween decorations may add to the ambiance, but some seasonal items can pose a risk to pets. Skip the following decorations or take extra precautions to keep your pet safe. 

• Jack-o'-lanterns and candles — Burning candles can be dangerous, whether placed around your home or in jack-o’-lanterns. If your pet knocks over the candle or brushes up against it, they risk being burned, and perhaps even starting a house fire. Flameless candle alternatives can provide a real burning candle’s flickering effects without the fire danger. 
• Cornstalks — While not usually toxic, these can cause blockages in a pet's digestive system if ingested.
• Electrical cords — Many pets have an affinity for chewing on electrical cords, which can cause an electric shock. Keep cords contained or use battery-operated decorations.
• Dry ice — Dry ice creates a creepy atmosphere, but the vapor is carbon dioxide gas. If your pet inhales the gas, they can experience respiratory distress.
• Glow sticks — Glow sticks aren’t toxic to pets, but if your pet chews on the stick, the material inside is extremely bitter and can irritate their mouth. If affected, your pet may drool excessively and paw at their mouth. 
• Motion-activated decorations — Decorations that have motion sensors and suddenly move or make loud noises or flash lights may startle your pet, causing them to run away.

Plan for your pet and the doorbell

The constant sound of a doorbell can send your pet into a frenzy, and groups of trick-or-treaters coming and going can cause their stress level to spike. An anxious pet with access to the front door may bolt outside to escape the commotion, increasing their chances of getting lost or injured. Keep your pet comfortable and stress-free by creating a quiet, secure space in your home where they can retreat from the Halloween frenzy. Provide them with engaging toys and a tasty treat to distract them from the commotion outside, and play calm music to muffle the sound. 

Think twice before taking your pet trick-or-treating 

Not all pets enjoy trick-or-treating, and most of them will feel more comfortable and safer staying home. The loud noises, strange costumes, and spooky decorations can cause the most confident, social pet to become scared or anxious, and react unpredictably. If your pet joins you trick-or-treating, keep them leashed at all times, use high-value treats to help them stay comfortable with their surroundings, and be ready to cut the trick-or-treating short if they appear stressed. Also, ensure your pet is microchipped and wearing an ID tag, both with your current contact information, so they have a good chance of being returned to you should they escape. 

Ensure your pet is comfortable in costume 

Although pet costumes are charming, they can cause your pet unnecessary stress and anxiety. Before committing to a costume, ensure your pet is safe and comfortable. The costume should allow your pet to breathe and move freely without restricting their neck, chest, or limbs, and the fabric should not cover their nose or mouth, or restrict breathing. Beware of choking hazards, and remove all small pieces (e.g., buttons, ribbon) that could break off and be swallowed. To prevent your pet from experiencing discomfort or overheating, only keep them in their costume for a short time, and If they appear uncomfortable, remove their costume immediately.

Plan for your pet’s safety this Halloween to avoid holiday hazards that could cause them harm. And, if your pet isn’t microchipped, contact our Santa Monica Pet Medical Center team to schedule the quick, easy procedure before Halloween night.