Keep Your Pets Safe (and Spooky!) This Halloween

Submitted by Heather Case

Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year –costumes, candy and creative chaos! But while we humans love the fun, our furry friends might not be as thrilled. Here are some simple tips to make sure your pets have a happy (and not too scary) Halloween night:

Candy and Wrappers – Keep all candy out of paw’s reach! Chocolate, gum and other sweet treats can be very toxic for dogs (and cats!) and those shiny foil or cellophane wrappers can cause tummy trouble if swallowed. Be sure to toss wrappers right away!

Costume Caution – Pet costumes can be adorable, but comfort and safety come first. Make sure your pet can move freely, avoid tight fits or dangling parts, and skip makeup or dyes. If your pet isn’t a fan of dressing up, a Halloween themed bandana or festive collar is a safe and stylish choice.

Decor Danger – Festive decorations set the Halloween mood but can pose health risks for your pets. Keep them away from lit pumpkins, candles and electrical cords.

Home is Best – With constant doorbell rings and excited trick-or-treaters, Halloween night can overwhelm pets. Keep cats safely indoors and give dogs a quiet space from all the action. Even the friendliest pets can get spooked and dash out the door or off the leash.

Up to date identification – Halloween is the perfect time to make sure that your pet registration is up to date. Opening the door for trick or treaters all evening long gives pets more opportunity to escape. You can check that your pet’s microchip is registered and update online at 24 Pet Watch or Pet Link.

In Belleville you can update your dog tag at City Hall, the Hastings Prince Edward Humane Society, or the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre.

Have a safe, sweet and pawsitively fun Halloween!