Halloween is a fun and festive time for families, but it can also bring unexpected dangersĀ for our furry friends. From costumes to candy, decorations to doorbells, the spooky seasonĀ poses a variety of risks for pets. With a few simple precautions, you can keep your petsĀ safe, calm, and happy throughout the holiday.
1. š¬ Keep Candy Out of Reach
Halloween candyāespecially chocolateāis toxic to pets. Even small amounts can causeĀ vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, seizures, or worse. Sugar-free treats containing xylitolĀ are also dangerous, potentially leading to life-threatening low blood sugar and liverĀ damage. Our Natureās Farmacy Probiotic paste can be a safe step ahead of festivities toĀ keep the gut balanced from excitement and inadvertent treats.
Tip: Store candy bowls and trick-or-treat bags out of reach, and remind children not toĀ share their treats with pets.
2. š» Avoid Costume Stress
Dressing up pets can be fun, but not all animals enjoy wearing costumes. Ill-fitting outfitsĀ can restrict movement, cause stress, or interfere with breathing, vision and hearing. If youĀ do dress up your pet, choose costumes made from non-toxic materials and designedĀ specifically for animals. Avoid small parts that can be chewed off and swallowed. DogsĀ super hearing ability can make an ear covering annoying. Our Natureās Farmacy CalmĀ Capsules and Calm Paste can provide a safe option for noise, activity and costume stress.
Tip: Let your pet try on the costume beforehand. If they show signs of discomfortālikeĀ panting, pawing, or refusing to moveāopt for a festive bandana or themed collar instead.Ā Always supervise your pet while theyāre in costume. If they seem uncomfortable, switch toĀ a simpler accessory Body fitted costumes can cause your pet to get overheated. KeepĀ drinking water available.
3.Ā lost pets.Ā Ensure Proper Identification With frequent doorbell rings and open doors, pets may get startled and run off. Halloween is one of the busiest nights for lost pets.
Tip: Make sure your pet wears a collar with updated ID tags. If theyāre microchipped,Ā confirm that the registration info is current. Keep them in a secure room or safely cratedĀ during trick-or-treating hours.
4. šÆļø Be Mindful of Decorations
Decorations can be hazardous. Lit candles in pumpkins pose fire risks, and fake cobwebs,Ā string lights, or small dĆ©cor items can be choking hazards or cause intestinal blockages.Ā While small amounts of cooked pumpkin are safe, raw pumpkin, seeds, and decorativeĀ corn cobs can cause stomach issues or blockages.
Tip: Keep fall-themed dĆ©cor out of reach to prevent nibbling. Use battery-operated candlesĀ and place decorations out of reach. Monitor pets around cords and lights to preventĀ chewing.
5. š Watch Out for Doorbell Anxiety
The constant ringing and arrival of costumed strangers can be stressful for pets, especiallyĀ those sensitive to noise or unfamiliar faces. If youāre hosting a party, pets may becomeĀ overstimulated or nervous around crowds and costumes.
Tip: Set up a quiet room with toys or a cozy bed. Play soothing music or turn on the TV toĀ mask the sound of the doorbell. Provide a quiet retreat for your pet during a party and letĀ guests know not to bother them or feed them Halloween treats.
6 Be Cautious with Glow Sticks
Glow sticks contain dibutyl phthalate, which isnāt highly toxic but can cause drooling orĀ strange behavior if chewed.
Tip: Keep glow sticks away from pets. If your pet chews one, offer water to rinse their mouth and monitor for unusual behavior.
7. š¶ Limit Outdoor Time on Halloween Night
Evening walks can be overwhelming due to costumes, loud noises, and decorations.Ā Thereās also a higher risk of pets running away or encountering unsafe items.
Tip: Walk your dog earlier in the day and keep them indoors at night, especially if theyāreĀ anxious or noise sensitive.Ā
By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for both you andĀ your pets. Remember, our Natureās Farmacy Calm Products and Probiotic Paste are greatĀ tools to have on hand. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping the spooky season stress-free for your furry companions!
