Halloween can be fun and exciting for families with young children, but it can also be stressful and dangerous for pets of all kinds. The Chicago Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) reminds pet owners to keep their pets’ safety and comfort in mind while enjoying the fun and excitement of the holidays.
Before you start celebrating, here are five important recommendations.
1. Think ahead about your pet’s comfort. Take your dog for a walk before dark to burn off some extra energy. If the doorbell starts ringing, consider putting your pet in a separate room or putting him in a kennel with something comfortable to minimize stress from noise and strenuous activity. Especially for cats, it is important to keep them indoors so they don’t run away in fear. If the weather is nice, plan on sitting outside and handing out candy. This will minimize the constant ringing of the doorbell, which can be stressful for your pet.
2. Keep candy and treats out of reach of pets. It is well known that chocolate is toxic to dogs and can be fatal. However, there are many other foods that contain sweeteners like xylitol, which can be dangerous to your pet if ingested. Be sure to keep treats out of your pet’s reach, and be wary of young children who try to share their spoils with trick-or-treaters. And while real pumpkin is a healthy food for both dogs and cats, consuming too much can cause indigestion.
3. Please keep your pet’s safety in mind when decorating. Holiday decorations are fun for humans, but some can be dangerous for pets. Lighted candles can be dangerous if accidentally knocked over, so please store them in a high place out of reach of pets. Also, be wary of toys and props (fluffy eyeballs, fake blood, cosmetics, plastic packaging, etc.). All of these can be harmful if ingested.
4. To dress up or not. Not all pets can wear costumes, but if your pet can wear a costume, be sure to choose one that is safe, comfortable, and allows for free movement.
5. Protect your pet by following the basics. If your pet gets loose during trick-or-treating time, reassure them by making sure they have an ID tag or collar on. If your pet is microchipped and you recently moved, double-check that the information is up to date. This increases your pet’s chances of being reunited with you.
Maki patiently posed next to a skeleton dog at Heidi’s Halloween House on Raintree Drive in Naperville. No snacks! (PN photo)
“Halloween is a fun and festive day for families, but it can also be scary and stressful for pets,” said Dr. Marina Jaworski, Chair of the CVMA Board of Directors. Owners who plan ahead and do everything they can to keep their pets safe and comfortable can help ensure everyone can enjoy their vacation. Also, have the 24-hour ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center hotline (888-426-4435) and your veterinarian’s phone number readily available, just in case. ”
chicago veterinary association
The Chicago Veterinary Medical Association has a long-standing tradition of connecting more than 1,000 veterinarians with comprehensive resources that support their continued development as advocates for animal health while encouraging the fostering of the human-animal bond. A network of experts.
Chicago Veterinary Medical Foundation since 2009
Founded in 2009, CVMF works with Chicagoland veterinarians to provide financial assistance to pet families in need by providing financial assistance to pet families in need by assisting with emergency and unexpected medical and surgical expenses for pets. ©3 Charity organization. The Foundation’s work plays an important role in strengthening the human-animal bond by helping sick and suffering pets get well again.
