Friday, October 26, 2012

Halloween Pet Safety Tips

Attention, animals lovers, it's almost the spookiest night of the year! The ASPCA recommends taking common sense precautions this Halloween to keep you and your pet saying 'trick or treat' all the way to November 1.

1. No tricks, no treats: That bowl of Candy is for trick-or-treaters, not for Scruffy of Fluffy. Chocolate in all forms, especially dark chocolate, can be very dangerous for dogs and cats.

2. Popular Halloweens plants such as pumpkins and decorative corn are considered to be relatively nontoxic, but they can produce stomach upset in pets who nibble on them.

3. Wires and cords from electric lights and other decorations should be kept out of reach of your pets. If chewed, your pet might suffer cuts or burns.

4. A carved pumpkin certainly is festive, but do exercise caution if you choose to add a candle.

5. Dress up can be a big mess up for some pets. Please don't put your dog or cat in a costume unless you know he or she loves it.

6. If you do dress up your pet, make sure the costume isn't annoying or unsafe.

7. Take a closer look at your pet's costume and make sure it does not have small, dangling or easily chewed off pieces that he could choke on.

8. All but the most social dogs and cats should be kept in a separate from the front door during peak trick-or-treating hours.

9. When opening the door for trick-or-treaters, take care that your cat or dog doesn't dart outside.

10. IDs, please! Always make sure your dog or cat has proper identification.

www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/halloween-safety-tips.aspx