http://www.care2.com/greenliving/halloween-pet-dangers.html
Halloween Pet Dangers
It’s easy to want to involve our pets in all of the action and excitement of our lives; but it’s not always so great for our pets. Consider Halloween. Consider it from a pet’s perspective, to be specific–the doorbell ringing over and over, a parade of yelling sugar-fueled “creatures” behind the door, chocolate to find, decorations to get tangled up in, and how about the dreaded pet costume?! (I know some pets don’t mind costumes, but I just keep thinking of my daughters’ dog Winkie and his look of misery when the doggie witch costume first appeared.) It’s important to keep your pets safe this Halloween by thinking around the holiday excitement, and being aware of the little catastrophes lurking in the evening. Here’s a round-up of tips from animal protection groups compiled by consumeraffairs.org:
- Don’t give Halloween candy to dogs and cats. Candy can be harmful to pets and chocolate is toxic to dogs, cats, and ferrets. Candies that have the artificial sweetener xylitol can also be poisonous to dogs–even small amounts can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar and lead to depression, lack of coordination and seizures. Symptoms of chocolate ingestion can include vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, and increased thirst, urination and heart rate, and even seizures.
- Avoid putting costumes on pets. Many dogs and cats don’t like costumes, and some can confine or restrict their movements. If you do dress up your pet, make sure the costume doesn’t impair their movement, hearing, sight or ability to breathe or bark. Also check the costume for any choking hazards. A safer alternative is a simple Halloween bandanna.
related stories
-
(36 comments)
-
(5 comments)
-
(5 comments)
Robyn
Melissa
Deepak
Eric
Dave
Dr. Brent
Isha
Susan
Delia
Michelle
Wendy
Megan
Hilary
Ann
Judi
Ronnie
Kelly
Lily
Terri
Betsy
Cait
Andrew
Jana
Annie B.
Veronica
8 comments
add your comment »I don't leave Scruffy home alone either. He comes with me, where there are no trick or treaters. Years ago he was so scared that he was acting vicious when I tried passing out candy.
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
I can't pass out candy to the neighborhood kids in my aptartment complex. Scruffy get suspicious and scared of the little costumed monsters. He would bark like crazy and run to the door,and I couldn't keep him in another room., without him scratching up the door.I'm afraid he would try to bite . I usually go to my brothers, out in the country. He doesn't pass candy out.
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
"Pranks" is a nice word for animal mutilation. The people who do this are sick, not playful or superstitious.
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
Thank you for the reminders, Melissa! We have 2 black cats, Sambo and Black Jill, and they're really lovable. Good thing they don't get out of the house because I always worry that superstitious people could harm them. I hope I succeed in posting their pictures in time for Halloween. They both have unique patterns on their fur that fit the bill exactly for Halloween : )
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
We always call our dog in on halloween as soon as it gets dark. That way, she doesn't start barking or get agitated when all those people come by, and she's not in any danger from pranks that may be pulled by older kids.
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
I heard candy is toxic to pets. A long time ago I tried to feed a dog candy and she refused.
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
Keeping our loving pets safe and happy at all times is first and foremost. Thank you for posting this Melissa!
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
Melissa, Thank you for your reminders. You've helped make the holiday safer for our pals. RichFromTampa
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
Facebook account: