Having a Safe Halloween With Your Dog

costumes, seasonal, costume, Halloween, seasonal - By Staff Writer on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - 15:26

Halloween is a great holiday that can be tons of fun for you and your family.  It can however be dangerous for your dog.  There are a few things to keep in mind as the holiday approaches that will keep everyone in your family safe and sound and ensure a fun Halloween.  Below are some things to watch out for.

Chocolate and Candy
Chocolate can be lethal to dogs.  The chemical theobromine or xantheose is much like caffeine and can cause severe cardiovascular and nervous effects that can lead to death in dogs.  Even small amounts of chocolate should be kept away from dogs.  In addition, candy wrappers might be ingested and cause blockages in your dogs digestive tract.  Keep all candy up away from the reach of your dog.

Open Doors
As trick-or-treaters go from door to door make sure your dog is safely kept in a back room.  The constant opening of the door might give your dog ideas of escape and the frightening costumes on children could scare your dog causing him to flee or to lash out and bite someone as self defense.  It is best to keep your dog away from the door and away from the costume clad children.

Costumes
Costumes can be fun for you and your dog as long as you use them safely.  If your dog appears to be afraid of your costume, it is best to keep it in a room where he does not have to see it.  Some dogs are particularly susceptible to fear around different costumes, so it’s best not to exacerbate the problem.  If you decide to put a costume on your dog make sure you keep an eye on him.  Some costumes have small parts that are chewable and some dogs will struggle to remove a costume and could get caught up and choke in the process.  Always watch your dog while they are in costume.

Parties
If you are having people over, we always recommend keeping your dog in a safe quite room with his toys.  The constant opening of doors, noise, and confusion might frighten your dog and you don't want him to get lost in the shuffle.  If you do let your dog out, make sure your guests know not to give him any chocolate, people food or alcohol.  Also, make sure you watch him.

Decorations
If you decorate with candles or cobwebs make sure everything is up and away from your dog’s reach.  A yummy smelling candle could lead to a burned nose or a house fire and little spiders in cobwebs could cause intestinal blockage if consumed.  All decorations should be out of Fido's reach.

Following the above few rules will keep your dog out of trouble and make the holiday more fun for everyone.  Should your dog ingest something he should not have, call poison control immediately (888) 426-4435 and get him to the vet as soon as possible.