Plastic bags pose a suffocation hazard
Those big plastic bags that candy and other snacks come in are attractive to your pets because they can smell the food that was in there. If your dog or cat puts their head inside the bag, they can suffocate quickly and quietly.
“A dog rummaging for crumbs can easily get their head stuck in a plastic or Mylar snack bag, creating a vacuum-like seal and suffocating them in just 3–5 minutes,” Dr. Nicholas warns in a Halloween safety blog post. “Once their head becomes stuck, the dog will panic, which depletes oxygen and raises carbon dioxide even faster. Regardless of the dog’s size, they won’t be able to get the bag off their head once it’s stuck.”
You can prevent such a tragedy by cutting those plastic bags along the sides, so they no longer present a suffocation hazard.
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Be sure to discard all candy wrappers and packaging (which dogs have been known to eat). They can cause digestive irritation or even an obstruction in the digestive system that may require a trip to the vet and possibly surgery.
Adult indulgences also pose a threat to your pets
With so many adults throwing grown-up parties, vets are seeing more pets getting into alcohol and marijuana.
“Alcohol can make them drunk, just like people, and a small dog can potentially drink enough to kill themselves with alcohol poisoning,” cautioned Dr. Tina Wismer, senior director of the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center.
Dogs tend to get into edibles infused with cannabis, while cats go for the buds, Dr. Wismer told NBC News BETTER.
“They get wobbly, like they’re drunk, and sedated. Dogs get urinary incontinence,” she said. “With edibles, they can get enough THC [the active ingredient in marijuana] to lower their blood pressure and go into a coma.”
If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, call the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. Don’t delay. Some toxic substances cause damage to internal organs very quickly.
Provide a safe space to spend Halloween night
A constant stream of strangers at the door, all wearing scary outfits and shouting “trick or treat!” can be upsetting, even for a mild-mannered dog, or a cat who seems oblivious to everything.
Fear can cause physical problems, such as diarrhea or vomiting. A stressed pet is more likely to run out the door looking for a safe place to hide. Hopefully, your pet is microchipped, but a collar with an ID tag can also be a lifesaver, if the dog or cat escapes.
Dr. Lisa Radosta, a board certified veterinary behaviorist in West Palm Beach, Fla., suggests giving you pet “a stress vacation” on Halloween night.
“Set up a sanctuary space, a comfy place in your house that’s going to be as soundproof as possible,” she said. “Turn on the TV or play some music to drown out the sound of the tick-or-treaters. Remember food, toys and water. Cats also need a litter box.”
For some pets, this won’t be enough. My dog, Sam, shakes uncontrollably when he’s scared. The only way to keep him calm is to give him a mild anti-anxiety pill.
Dr. Rodasta suggests contacting your vet right away about medications or supplements that can help your pet make it through Halloween night with less stress.
Warning: Pets should never be given people medications. The dosage could be too strong, and in some cases, these drugs can be harmful to a dog or cat.
Pet costumes
We want our pets to get into the holiday spirit, so we try to dress them up in silly costumes. Of course, they don’t see the humor in this. Some dogs and cats will tolerate it; others freak out.
“America’s Veterinarian” Dr. Marty Becker, founder of Fear Free Happy Homes, says if you’re going to do this, make it tasty and quick.
“Have food items that are novel and super tasty — such as slices of turkey hot dogs, deli turkey or peanut butter on a pretzel stick — and give them tidbits about every 30 seconds as you put the Halloween outfit on. Then quickly get your pictures,” Dr. Becker said. “For most pets, taking photos to keep on your phone or post on social media is better than having an anxious pet go door-to-door in a costume.”
Most pets don’t like costumes with elastic on top of the head or around the neck, he said, so look for one that’s easy to put on and easy to take off, and doesn’t constrict their head or neck. A Halloween-themed collar, leash or bandana may be a better way to go.
Fire hazards
Halloween decorations often include candles. Cats and dogs can knock over a candle, even a lit jack-o-lantern, and start a fire. The ASPCA warns that curious kittens are especially at risk of getting burned or singed by candle flame.
More pet advice on BETTER
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