Halloween is just around the corner! As you start decorating your home, and perhaps picking out costumes, don’t forget about your canine buddy. This can be a dangerous time of year for Fido! Read on as a Marietta, GA vet offers some advice on keeping your furry bff safe over the autumn holiday.
Avoid Dangerous Foods
Food is one of the biggest pet safety concerns around Halloween. Many of those sweet treats are poisonous to dogs, and could make your canine friend very sick! Never give Fido chocolate, nuts, grapes, raisins, and anything containing xylitol. Just offer him a doggy treat instead.
Limit Outdoor Time
There’s often more traffic than usual around Halloween. This is, unfortunately, also a peak time for pranksters. We recommend limiting Fido’s outdoor time around the holiday, especially if he has a yard to play in. It’s also a good idea to bring your pooch in before dark.
Choose A Suitable Costume
If your pup doesn’t mind wearing clothes, you can try putting a costume on him. Just be sure to put Fido’s comfort and safety first. Avoid anything that is tight, hot, or itchy, as well as anything with small parts, like buttons, that he may try to eat. You’ll also want to be sure that your dog’s outfit allows him full range of motion, and doesn’t restrict his vision. Once your canine pal is dressed, keep a close eye on him. If he seems hot or uncomfortable, take his costume off right away.
Be Careful With Decorations
Many of those whimsical seasonal decorations are hazardous to pets. Jack-o-lanterns are one concern. Dogs and fire are not a safe mix! Other potential hazards include fake cobwebs; anything with batteries; wreaths and garlands; candles; potpourri burners; and anything made out of foam, plastic, or other unsafe items. Keep these things in places your furry pal can’t get to.
Peace and Quiet
Fido has many jobs, but one of the duties he takes very seriously is his position as door doggy. If your pet gets excited when the doorbell rings, Halloween may be a bit much for him. Put your pup in a crate or a quiet back room with food, toys, treats, and bedding when the trick-or-treaters start arriving.
Please contact us, your Marietta, GA vet clinic, for all of your dog’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!
