Courtesy of Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society

While Halloween fun might be enjoyable for ghosts and ghouls, pets may not share the same excitement. Halloween can cause stress and even pose dangers to many animals. Here are some essential things pet owners should keep in mind before Halloween.

Costumes.

Pet costumes are popular and can help owners and their pets coordinate for Halloween. Some pets might find costumes uncomfortable or scary. Introducing the costume to the pet gradually can help make the transition easier. Let the pet sniff the costume and place treats nearby to show it is not a threat. If the pet doesn’t warm up to the idea of a costume, it’s best not to force it.

Glow sticks.

Glow sticks are a safe way for children to enjoy spooky fun on Halloween, but they can also attract pets that might bite them and swallow the liquid. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center says pets may have a mild, self-limiting taste reaction to this liquid. Wiping off the excess with a damp cloth can help prevent the pet from licking again and experiencing another reaction.

Access to candy.

One of the most significant Halloween hazards for pets is their ability to get into candy, especially chocolate, which is toxic to dogs. Raisins and gum that contains the artificial sweetener xylitol are also dangerous, as are candy wrappers, which can get stuck in the digestive tract and cause a life-threatening blockage. Keep candy out of pets’ reach to prevent them from getting into it.

Nerves.

Anxious pets can become overwhelmed during Halloween. Keep pets in a dark, quiet room away from the door to help reduce their anxiety and decrease the chance they will run away or get lost.

Knowing common Halloween dangers helps protect pets during this fun holiday.

The Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society consists of 75 small animal hospitals and 200 practitioners in Erie and Niagara counties. Learn more at www.nfveterinarysociety.org.