Halloween for Pets

Children aren't the only ones who should be closely
monitored on Halloween. The holiday can be a scary and
dangerous time for your pet as well.

By following some simple tips you can keep your pet safe and
comfortable without infringing on the family fun:

1.) Don't put costumes on your pets unless they are used to
it. Wearing clothing can make pets uncomfortable and even
sick.

2.) Candy is for humans and not for their furry friends.

3.) Chocolate is toxic to animals. It can make them very sick.
Make sure that the "after Halloween" candy is put away so
your pet can’t get it--especially the chocolate. We hear
from owners every year of pets they had to take to the
emergency room because they managed to find the candy and
eat it. Give them a pet treat instead.

4.) If you know or suspect your pet has eaten some Halloween
candy contact your veterinarian IMMEDIATELY. Some candies,
especially chocolate, can be life threatening. If you can’t
reach your veterinarian you can call the ASPCA’s Poison
Control Center 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at (888) 426-
4435.

Caution: A $50 consultation fee may be applied to your
credit card.

5.) Costumes may look strange to people, but just imagine
what they look like to a dog or cat. Animals aren't used to
seeing that kind of thing, and it could frighten them. So,
it's best not take them trick or treating.

6.) If your pet isn’t good with strangers, it’s best to put
her in a separate room away from the door, so she won’t be
bothered by the presence of strangers.

7.) If your pet is going to be free in the house, with the
door being opened repeatedly, there is more of a chance that
your pet can get outside. So, remember to make sure he is
wearing his license tags. That way, if he does get away,
there is a better chance of getting him back home sooner.

About the Author: James Kelly is the owner of Travelin Pets, a web site
specializing in providing information and quality products
for traveling pets and their owners.

Visit his website at: http://www.travelinpets.com
e-mail: [email protected]

Halloween & Hounds

Halloween is “fright night” for humans not dogs. Screaming, running, spooky children in masks make many dogs uncomfortable, nervous and frightened.

Halloween costumes are fun and are meant to disguise our normal appearance. Dogs do not understand this change in appearance and may become frightened. Costumes that change the way a person walks, stands, or their general appearance may cause a dog to react different then usual even with those they know.

Keep in mind that children on Halloween night are excited and doing their best to be scary. This is not a fair or safe situation to put even the best of dogs in. Even the normally terrific tolerant family dog can find this night hard to handle.

Along with costumes being frightening to a dog there are some that may become interesting too. Swords, tails and dangling things may be fun for an excited dog to chase and toddlers certainly won’t appreciate that.

Every child and every costume is a new opportunity for different reactions from the same dog.

I recommend setting up your dog with their own private Halloween bash in a safe quiet spot with a yummy treat of their own. Here are some tips to help make this safe haven most comfortable.

1.) Stuff a food dispensing toy with yummy mush and freeze it until it is “Halloween” time.

2.) Use a fan or radio for white noise. Something consistent is best.

3.) Be sure the blinds are down or the dog is not watching kids coming and going by the window. This will only frustrate him and allow him to practice barking and carrying on at the window.

Chocolate is toxic to dogs. Put candy in a safe spot.

Many dogs are stolen, poisoned or injured by Halloween pranks. Keep your dog safe and sound inside your home.

Be safe and aware and have fun!

For more information on kid and dog safety on Halloween check out and http://www.familypaws.com & http://www.doggonesafe.com & http://www.safekids.org/