In preparation for Halloween, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has put together seven tips for veterinarians to share with pet owners to ensure animals stay safe during upcoming festivities.
- Owners should not feed pets Halloween candy, especially if it contains chocolate or xylitol (a common sugar substitute found in sugar-free candies and gum)
- Pets should be properly identified (microchip, collar, and ID tag) in case they escape through an open door while owners are distracted with trick-or-treaters
- Lit candles and jack-o-lanterns must be kept out of reach of pets
- Make sure pet costumes fit properly, are comfortable, and do not have pieces that can easily be chewed off, or can interfere with a pet’s sight, hearing, breathing, opening of mouth, or moving. Pets should have time to get accustomed to the costume before Halloween, and must never be left unsupervised while they are wearing a costume
- Keep glow sticks and glow jewelry away from pets. Although the liquid in these products isn’t likely toxic, it tastes really bad and makes pets salivate excessively and act strangely
- Pets who are wary of strangers or have a tendency to bite, should be put in a separate room during trick-or-treating hours or be provided with a safe hiding place
- Keep pets inside
Watch a video of AVMA’s Halloween tips here.
