Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control Issues Pet Safety Tips Ahead of Halloween
Halloween is an exciting time for the whole family but can present potential hazards for pets. To ensure pets remain safe and healthy during the weekend festivities, Cook County’s Department of Animal and Rabies Control recommends pet owners take the following precautions.
Pet Costumes
- Ensure your pet can tolerate a costume. Many pets may not mind wearing a costume for a short period of time but will not want to remain in that costume for the duration of the holiday.
- Costumes should not constrict your pet’s movement or impair breathing or eyesight. Make sure no part of the costume goes over the nose or mouth and that any hats or head coverings don’t inhibit your pet’s vision.
- Avoid potential choking hazards. Make sure costumes do not have loose beads, strings or other small items that can be chewed on or ingested.
Trick-or-Treating
- Small children may fear your dogs and your dogs may also become scared or agitated by all the commotion and knocks on the door. Secure your pet in a room away from the front door. In all the excitement, your pet could bolt.
- Consider leaving pets at home, where they are safe and comfortable, while trick-or-treating. If you do bring your pet, keep them on a short leash and be cautious of their surroundings. Costumes can scare pets, causing otherwise friendly pets to be more reactive than usual. Also, make sure they are wearing something reflective so they can be easily spotted.
- Make sure your pet is microchipped and that dog tags have your current contact information so you can be reunited with your pets as quickly as possible if they accidentally get out.
Halloween Treats
- Too many treats aren’t healthy for people, but any Halloween candy is extremely dangerous for pets. Chocolate, artificial sweeteners and raisins are just a few foods that are toxic to your furry family members. Keep all candy away from pets. If your pet ingests any candy, contact your veterinarian immediately.