Oakland Park Vet Offers Tips for Halloween Pet Safety

Candy, costumes, trick-or-treaters, and spooky decorations are all fun things for humans, but can be potentially hazardous for dogs and cats. To keep Halloween enjoyable for both the kids and the pets, it's important to be aware of Halloween items that could lead to an emergency trip to the veterinary hospital.

Halloween Hazards for Pets

The chief hazard to dogs and cats over the Halloween season is candy. Chocolate, especially, is toxic to animals, and the darker the chocolate, the greater the hazard. Avoid a trip to the emergency pet hospital by keeping candy out of reach.

Decorations can also be a problem. Cats love to play with ribbons and fringe, but if swallowed, these can pose a health threat. Another danger is your pet slipping out of the house while you are greeting trick-or-treaters. Pets can be very adept at sneaking around corners and out the door without your even noticing.

Tips for Avoiding Halloween Pet Dangers

Avoid a trip to the veterinary hospital this Halloween season by taking a few precautions. Keep the candy bowl out of your pet's reach or cover it up. Make sure that your decorations are pet-friendly and don't have any low-hanging ribbons or other pieces that can be bitten off.

It's also a good idea to secure your cat or dog in another room while the trick-or-treating is going on. That way, he or she won't be tempted to sneak outside. Of course, our Oakland Park veterinarian recommends that all cats and dogs be microchipped. This safe, affordable and painless procedure helps ensure that your pet gets returned to you safely should he or she become lost.

At Oakland Park Animal Hospital, we offer a full range of pet wellness and emergency care. Our animal vet clinic can handle everything from pet vaccinations to emergency surgery.

What precautions do you take around Halloween to ensure your dog or cat's safety?