Halloween is fun for everyone in the family, including the furry members! However, there are some additional considerations to think about before you take your fur baby out to celebrate. Read below for tips for taking your dog trick-or-treating!
Supplies
Be prepared for anything while you are out. It is better to be safe than sorry! So, pack things such as:
- water
- treats
- a toy
- pop bags
Costumes
When choosing a costume for your furry friend, avoid anything with beads, snaps, buttons, ribbons, or elastic that can pose intestinal hazards. Additionally, any dangling pieces have the potential to be chewed off and swallowed. Also, avoid costumes that may cause overheating, difficulty breathing, impaired vision, or restriction. You should never leave your dog alone while wearing an outfit. Lastly, reflective gear is a great way to ensure their safety so you and others can see your four-legged friend!
Watch Out For Hazards
Keep an eye on what your dog sniffs and may try to chew on while you are out and about. Open candle flames are dangerous to tails and noses. Additionally, chewing on and ingesting batteries will cost you a visit to the vet! Also, glow sticks and other glow-in-the-dark items are filled with a liquid chemical. If punctured and ingested, it will result in irritation, mouth pain, and even extreme salivation.
Plus, there may be some stray candy in the street that your dog may try to make their midnight snack! So, keep your pal away from:
- Chocolate: Most owners know to keep chocolate away from dogs. However, being aware of this during this time of year is essential. Chocolate contains Theobromine, which can be fatal to your pooch. If your pal ingests chocolate, contact your vet immediately.
- Gum: gum and other candies that include xylitol should be avoided. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is used as an artificial sweetener. It is found commonly in gum, candy, baked goods, and sometimes toothpaste and peanut butter!
- Hard Candy: Hard candy can obstruct the stomach if ingested in large quantities.
- Raisins: Raisins and grapes are toxic to dogs. If you have neighbors who opt for raisin boxes over candy, be vigilant about keeping them away from your pooch.
- Candy Wrappers: wrappers can be a choking hazard or create gastrointestinal irritation if they are foil or cellophane.
If you want to give your pal some fall-themed treats so they don’t feel left out, you can make them with dog-friendly ingredients and love!
Pay Attention
With all the festivities, be attentive to your pup’s body language. If they seem overwhelmed or nervous, consider going home. If they are shaking, panting while at rest, trying to hide, vocalizing, refusing to walk, and not responding to standard commands, it may be time to call it a night.
Follow these safety tips to make Halloween safe and fun for your furry friend!
