Pet Safety During Halloween, Crucial Guidelines You Need To Know.

Halloween is a season filled with treats, tricks, and ghoulish fun, but our beloved pets may not see it that way. This period often disrupts their normal routine with unusual activities and unfamiliar faces, causing them anxiety and fear. It's our responsibility to shield them from the Halloween threats that pose harm to pets. Knowing what steps to take if your dog consumes chocolate or how to locate a missing pet are some of the crucial tips to keep your furry companion safe and ensure everyone enjoys a delightful Halloween.

Here are some essential guidelines for pet safety, helping you bypass potential Halloween risks to your pets:

First on the list is the fact that Halloween candies are not suitable for pets. Pets, whether cats or dogs, are prone to health risks if they ingest candies, especially those containing xylitol. This sugar substitute found in candies, mints, gums, and certain toothpaste brands can cause hypoglycemia in pets. Symptoms may include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and general weakness.

Chocolate, especially the darker and bitter ones, are poisonous to pets, particularly dogs. Some dogs may find chocolate's aroma and taste appealing, leading to accidental ingestion. This can result in symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, muscle tremors, or even seizures. In extreme cases, chocolate consumption can prove fatal for pets.

Fruits like grapes and raisins also pose a significant threat to pets; even small quantities can lead to kidney failure in both cats and dogs.

Ingesting candy wrappers, particularly foil ones, may lead to bowel obstruction and, in severe cases, necessitate emergency surgery.

To keep candies and fruits away from your pets, store them in a securely locked container, out of your pet's reach. Also, keep candy wrappers well away from your pets or use a lid for your trash bins during the night.

Secondly, glow sticks and glow jewelry pose another threat to pets. Pets, especially dogs and cats, love chewing on small plastic items. The chemicals in these Halloween accessories can cause skin and eye irritation, especially in cats, leading to potential ingestion as they clean themselves.

Key symptoms to look out for include eye or skin redness, vomiting, excessive salivation, and gagging.

Thirdly, lit candles, although a popular Halloween feature, can be hazardous to pets. They pose a danger if a frightened or playful pet brushes against them. In such scenarios, using LED candles or other battery-operated lights can be a safer option.

What Should You Do If Your Dog Consumes Chocolate?

If you find your dog has eaten chocolate, the crucial step is to seek immediate veterinary attention. Inducing vomiting can be done at home using hydrogen peroxide, but only under expert advice. If your pet exhibits prolonged vomiting, excessive diarrhea, tremors, seizures, or any unusual behavior, promptly take them to a vet. After their safety is confirmed, ensure they stay hydrated as toxins can dehydrate and tire them.

Different chocolate types have varying toxicity levels:

• Baking chocolate: 0.5 ounces per 10 pounds
• Dark chocolate: 1.5 ounces per 10 pounds
• Milk chocolate: 3.5 ounces per 10 pounds
• White chocolate: 47 pounds per 10 pounds

If in doubt, you can reach out to the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 or the ASPCA Animal Poison Helpline at 888-426-4435. These services are accessible 24/7.

Remember, while costumes may look adorable on pets, ensure they're comfortable, breathable, and don't restrict your pet's movement or senses. Always introduce the costume to your pet before the big day, rewarding them with treats to foster a positive connection. Be aware of your pet's body language, and if they seem stressed, remove the costume.

If you can't locate your pet, here are a few strategies:

Start by checking your neighbors' yards and nearby parks before expanding the search. Inform people you encounter about your lost pet and share their photo if possible. Distribute contact information to your mail carrier, joggers, newspaper delivery people, and anyone else who frequents your neighborhood. Post notices at local vet offices, pet supply stores, grocery stores, or on social media, with due permissions. Check online resources like Pet FBI, FidoFinder, Center for Lost Pets, or Craigslist to see if someone has found your pet.

Remember, caring for a pet is a responsibility that requires vigilance. For more tips on maintaining a safe home for your pet, check out our blog or contact your local CrossCountry Mortgage Advisor.