Keep Your Pets Safe This Halloween

In the quiet neighbourhood where you live, people hardly ever ring the doorbell, except for the odd mail carrier.  But come Halloween and all that changes. Loud fireworks, happily shrieking children and a constant knock on the door may be a lot of fun for your family but can cause behavioural issues in pets.

Dogs are an intelligent lot. They remember particular events and smells. Since Halloween is once a year affair, too many activities in a single day are perhaps too much for them to bear.

Here are some tips to keep your pets safe this Halloween.

  • Too much hullabaloo, commotion and loud noises can generate anxiety disorders in dogs.  If your dog is a nervous type, it is better to keep him indoors, preferably in the back of the house. You may consider keeping on some music to muffle the noise outside.
  • Do not let your dog outside, as he may become an easy target for pranksters. Some dogs are opportunists. They love outdoors. Watch out for that mischievous dog of yours that will seek an opportunity to sneak outside when you open door for trick-or-treaters.  Register your pet with the city council and attach dog collar with up-to-date ID tag.
  • In many parts of the UK, North America and Canada, teens and preteens observe Halloween Eve (October 30) as Mischief Day or Devil’s Night.  They play pranks, sometimes quite dangerous such as lighting fireworks, smashing pumpkins and jack-o’-lanterns and spray painting.  Your dog may be keeping your guard but it’s your turn now to protect him.
  • Chocolates and candies can be toxic to pets. They can also choke on the wrappers. Keep those away from your pet’s reach.
  • Keep candles, electrical cords for decoration, lighted jack-o’-lanterns and all such harmful things at a higher level to prevent your pets from accidents.
  • If you are fond of dressing up your pet for Halloween, use non-flammable, non-toxic and non-constricting outfit.