Halloween Safety Tips for Pets
from Northwest Animal Hospital & Pet Care Center

With visitors approaching the door throughout the night and plenty of activity, Halloween can be fun for the whole family, pets included. However, our veterinarians recommend keeping your pets indoor on Halloween night. Your pet will be less stressed by the activity and less likely to get lost, making Halloween a fun evening for the whole family.

Helpful Tips from our Colorado Springs Veterinarian

Keep candy away from pets: When Halloween arrives, keep your bowl of trick-or-treat candy in an area your pet can't access. If you leave the candy right next to the door, the temptation may be too great for your dog to resist. Halloween night won't be much fun if it is interrupted by an emergency vet call or visit to the animal hospital!

Use pet safe decor: Keep tempting Halloween decorations like stuffed animals or potpourri out of reach, and secure cords used for decorative lighting. Even pets that normally leave household objects alone may become curious about new arrivals; check with your Colorado Springs veterinarians if you are in doubt about decorating safely any time of year.

Choose costumes with care: Some pets love to be the center of attention and wear a costume, while others won't enjoy the experience at all. At Northwest Animal Hospital & Pet Care Center, we recommend that you make sure your pet is really willing to dress up, and that you pass on the costume if it causes undue stress. Consider selecting a Halloween-themed breakaway collar or bandana from your dog grooming professional; the item will be festive and fun, but safe as well.

Costume safety: If you decide to dress your dog or cat in a Halloween costume, make sure the item you choose is safe. Buy a costume designed for pets, not people and double check for choking, tripping or other hazards. Check with our Colorado Springs vet if you are in doubt about using a costume.

Watch your doors: If you have an indoor cat who is prone to making a dash for freedom, consider keeping her in room away from the door while trick or treating is in full swing. If your dog is prone to anxiety when the doorbell rings, give him safe spot away from the door, or consider using our pet boarding service for the evening.

We'd love to know -- how are you celebrating Halloween with your pets this year?