Avoid Halloween hazards for your pet

Humans may think Halloween is a treat, but for our pets, it can feel more like a trick. Uncomfortable costumes, dangerous candy, and an endless stream of masked strangers ringing the doorbell can make October 31 a haunting holiday for our four-legged friends.

Whether you’re staying home to hand out candy or taking your pup to the streets for some trick-or-treating, there are precautions every pet owner should take to keep their furry friends safe and sound on the spookiest night of the year.

Beware of the open door

The sound of the doorbell paired with trick-or-treat traffic can be stress-inducing for dogs and cats. Keep a close eye on your pet when opening and closing the door to make sure they don’t bolt. If you have a particularly anxious pet, create an escape-free, comfortable space for them to stay during the chaos.

Claws off the candy

Halloween candy is dangerous for dogs and cats. Small pieces can be choking hazards and ingredients like chocolate, raisins and xylitol are dangerous for your pet to eat, so keep your candy bowl far out of reach. If you think your pet has ingested candy, call your veterinarian.

Choose costumes wisely

There’s nothing cuter than a dog or cat in costume, but playing dress up can be miserable for your pet. If you plan on putting your furry pal in a costume, make sure it’s comfortable and not too restrictive and doesn’t have dangling pieces for them to trip over or choke on. Double check the label to make sure the costume is made of non-toxic materials to avoid allergic reactions.

Flames and fur don’t mix

Lit pumpkins can be festive, but unattended candles and pets don’t mix. If you want to create a spooky ambiance, try flameless candles instead.

Keep a tight leash when trick-or-treating

If you plan on taking your dog door-to-door with the whole family, make sure an adult holds the leash. You also want to keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior. If your pup shows any signs of stress or aggression, it’s best to take them home.

Your pet’s well-being matters. Explore USA TODAY Pets for trusted health advice, wellness tips, and product reviews to keep tails wagging and whiskers twitching. Visit usatoday.com/pets/health.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Halloween hazards for pets: From candy to costumes, how to keep your furry friends safe

Reporting by Kelsey Monstrola, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

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