Tips to Keep Pets Safe at Halloween
For Immediate Release
October 21, 2008
• Keep pets safely inside, away from trick-or-treaters and other
Halloween activities. This will ensure that pets won’t become
frightened or feel threatened at the sight of noisy costumed
children. Frequently opened doors provide a perfect opportunity for
escape, which can go unnoticed during all of the commotion. Be sure
all pets are wearing collars with ID tags in case of accidental escape.
• Keep candy out of your pet’s reach. Candy can be harmful to pets
and chocolate is toxic to cats, dogs, and ferrets. If you suspect
your pet has ingested a potentially dangerous substance, please call
your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888)
426-4435.
• Keep pets away from decorations. Flames in jack-o-lanterns and
candles can quickly singe, burn or set fire to a pet’s fur. Pets can
become tangled in hanging decorations like streamers and can choke
on some decorations if they chew on them.
• Resist the urge to put your furry friend in costume. Most pets
dislike the confinement of costumes and masks, and flowing capes can
cause injuries if pets get caught on something.If you do dress up
your pet, make sure the costume isn't annoying or unsafe. It should
not constrict the animal's movement or hearing, vision or impede his
ability to breathe or bark. Keep a look out for small, dangling, or
easily chewed-off pieces on the costume that your pet could choke on.
• Don’t bring the family dog along for trick-or-treating. Dogs may
become difficult to handle during the noise and confusion of the
festivities. A lost dog or dog bite will quickly end your Halloween fun.
FMI: Gail Crowell 207-985-3244 x 117, gail@animalwelfaresociety.org
