Taking the Scare Out of Nashville Halloween Pet Emergencies

Whether you are monster mashing, trick-or-treating, or summoning spirits from beyond the grave, Halloween is a fun and festive holiday for pets and people alike. There are some things to beware of, though, so that you can avoid Halloween pet emergencies.

Scary Treats for Pets to Avoid

Not all of our favorite treats are good for pets to eat. You can stay safe from Halloween pet emergencies by knowing your danger items. 

Beware:

• Chocolate that can result in toxicity when ingested (especially dark or baking chocolate)
• Artificial sweeteners like xylitol that can cause serious side effects for pets
• Pumpkins, gourds, and decorative corn are not toxic, but they can cause a lot of trouble in the form of an obstruction if eaten 
• Raisins (and grapes, too) can cause kidney failure if ingested 
• Candy wrappers that often smell tasty but lead to a tummy ache
• Glow sticks that can cause irritation of the mouth if punctured

Halloween Pet Safety During Festivities

Parties, bonfires, and trick-or-treating can be fun to do with your pet, but some safety measures are wise. 

Over-indulgence on treats and extras can lead to digestive upset. In particular sugary, high-fat foods can cause pancreatitis. 

When opening the door to hand out candy, your pet should be secured. Scared or overwhelmed animals may slip out a door and become lost or worse. 

Be careful during parties to keep your guest’s personal items, the garbage, food, and drink safely away from curious noses who may find trouble.

Halloween is a great time to make sure that you have updated registration on your pet’s microchip and that they have a well-fitted collar with current identification, just in case. 

Spooky Decor

Much of the fun of the holiday comes in the form of decorations and costumes.

To be on top of your Halloween pet safety game, take some time to be sure all wires and electrical cords are secure and out of reach from curious teeth or accidental entanglement. Candles can also be hazardous. Be sure that they can’t be knocked over to prevent burns. 

Ribbons, tinsel, and the like are also potentially dangerous, especially if ingested. 

Dressing your pet up can be a lot of fun, but it isn’t for all of our furry friends. If your pet seems stressed, scared, or otherwise unhappy, it is best to leave him or her home in a quiet, safe place.

If you do choose to dress up your pet, be sure that:

• The costume does not restrict your pet’s movement, vision, or breathing
• There are no small or easily chewed off parts
• You supervise your pet at all times when costumed
• Proper identification such as a registered microchip and/or collar tag are part of it

The Urban Pet hopes that our Halloween pet safety tips will keep you away from scary situations this holiday season. If you do find yourself in a Halloween pet emergency, though, contact us. We are happy to help however we can.