Halloween pet safety: Keep your furry friends safe during the spooky season
Dogs are often scared of Halloween costumes and decorations
Halloween decorations can be scary for pets. They may not understand what Halloween is and why people are dressed up in costumes and masks, which can make them anxious or scared. Additionally, some Halloween decorations, such as jack-o'-lanterns, can be dangerous for pets.
Dogs are especially susceptible to Halloween frights, due to their keen sense of smell and hearing. The unfamiliar scents and sounds associated with the holiday can be overwhelming and frightening for them. Common Halloween decorations that dogs find scary include:
- Costumes and masks
- Jack-o'-lanterns
- Candy
- Fireworks
How to keep your dog safe on Halloween
There are a few things you can do to keep your dog safe on Halloween:
- Keep your dog on a leash when you're out trick-or-treating.
- Don't let your dog eat any candy, especially chocolate, which is toxic to dogs.
- Be aware of the signs of stress in your dog, such as panting, pacing, and drooling.
- If your dog is scared, take them home and put them in a quiet, safe place.
- If you're having a party, make sure to keep the noise level down and provide a safe space for your dog to retreat to.
PETA's tips for a safe and cruelty-free Halloween
In addition to the tips above, PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) offers the following tips for a safe and cruelty-free Halloween:
- Don't use animals in your Halloween decorations.
- Don't dress your pet up in a costume that restricts their movement or vision.
- Don't take your pet trick-or-treating.
- If you're attending a Halloween party, make sure it's pet-friendly.
- Be respectful of other animals on Halloween night.
