TRICK-FOR-TREAT GIVEAWAY!

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Halloween candies are not treats for pets
Keep the goodies out of reach of pets.
Chocolate – especially dark chocolate – can be dangerous, even lethal for cats and dogs.
Xylitol – an artificial sweetener found in some candies can also be poisonous to dogs. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause blood sugar levels to drop, followed by loss of coordination and seizures. Xylitol ingestion has also been linked to liver failure in dogs!

Bring pets indoors
Evil seems to escalate on Halloween. Sadly, there are vicious individuals who create terror for pets and their people.  They tease, injure, poison, steal, and even kill pets on Halloween night. Disgusting, I know.  Preventable nonetheless.  Black cats, in particular, are a target. Please bring pets indoors on Halloween.

Keep pets away from the door that opens to greet Trick-or-Treaters
Depending on where you live, that door may be opening and closing constantly.  The doorbell and spookily clad visitors may cause severe anxiety for your pets.  They may react fearfully and try to escape. Or, they could become aggressive towards that little unicorn.  Better safe than sorry. Securing pets in a crate or separate room away from the front door will reduce stress and prevent them from darting outside on Halloween night – a night of chaos.

Consider Setting a Calm Environment before the arrival of monsters
Rescue Remedy and Feliway spray are just a couple of suggestions of natural de-stressing agents available to help keep your pets comfortable on this crazy night.  Calming wraps are another, non-digestible option.

Practice Visits and Doorbell Ringing
Even if you have guests visit regularly, your doorbell probably rings more on this occasion. To help your dog or cat feel more at ease, practice ahead of time to create a positive association with the doorbell. Try ringing the doorbell before entering your own house and reward your dog for not barking.  You could also recruit friends to assist with this training.  This tip may be helpful for other occasions/get-togethers also.

Pet Costumes
Don’t add to the stress of the evening by putting a costume on them that they aren’t comfortable in, or is unfamiliar to them.  Non-restrictive costumes are best. Costumes should not restrict movement, hearing, eyesight, or the ability to breathe. Ensure Fido is familiar with his outfit before the big night and don’t leave him unsupervised while in costume to prevent choking or suffocation.

Beware of Fire and Electrical Hazards
Candles, Jack-O-Lanterns, and electric or battery operated decorations can also pose a safety hazard to pets.  Don’t leave pets unattended in the vicinity of such items and be sure they are blown out or switched off at the end of the night. Check regularly to ensure they don’t overheat.

Walk safely
If you must take your pet out with the two-legged members of your pack (perhaps less stressful than being left at home alone), Please keep him on a short leash and ensure he is visible by adding reflective tape to his costume or collar. LED lights are also options. Small dogs are especially at risk of being trampled by excited trick-or-treaters.

Pet Identification
If your dog or cat escapes on Halloween night, having the proper identification will increase the chances of their safe return. ID tags on collars are the first place a Good Samaritan will look if able to detain your runaway pet.  Microchips offer permanent identification should the collar, or tag come off. Please make sure the contact information is up-to-date. Don’t wait until Halloween to check. I suggest making this part of Fido’s annual check-up!

Who You Gonna Call?
Not ‘Ghost Busters’! Be sure your contact list is up to date:
-Animal Control
-Pet Poison Hotline
-Emergency Vet Clinic in your area
Grab a pen and write this info. on a note and stick it to your fridge, now.  Go on; I’ll wait!

Okay, that’s the scary stuff out of the way.  Once you are prepared and know your pets will be safe and as stress-free as possible, you can enjoy the festivities.  Don’t forget to play ‘Trick-For-Treat’ with your dogs.

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