How to Keep Pets Safe from Halloween Hazards

“Halloween presents multiple dangers for our pets,” Dr. Carol McConnell, DVM, MBA, Vice President and Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for VPI states in the report. “An increase of candy in the home creates new opportunities for pets to eat harmful foods and the continual noise from holiday festivities can create a lot of stress.”

VPI reports calls to Pet Poison Helpline increase 12% during the Halloween season. October is the helpline’s busiest season and VPI poured over more than 500, 000 insured pets in its database to determine the average cost of treatment for toxins ingested during the spooky season.

Ingestion of costume parts average treatment cost is $1,627 meaning that a good costume can end up costing way more than anticipated. Two of the most toxic human foods for dogs also made the list: raisins and chocolate. Raisin toxicity average treatment costs $565 while chocolate toxicity comes in at $356. Also included on the VPI list are “Chewing Gum and Candy (Containing Xylitol) Toxicity” costing $330 and upset stomach and diarrhea treatment averaging $203.

Photo provided by VPI press release

This does not include the many pets not under VPI’s insurance that are rushed to the vet during the Halloween season for related ingestion issues. Many pet owners dress their pets up in costume for Halloween as well- in the U.S. alone pet parents spend more than $370 million annually. Dressing up a pet also raises more concerns- not just for ingested costume parts but for the costumes themselves.

“Poorly fitted costumes can constrict pets and lead to panic or injury. Also take note of costumes with ribbon, strings or dangling objects that can lead to choking or strangulation,” the VPI release states. “If a pet begins to itch excessively, be sure to remove the costume as allergies from fabric, detergent or fabric softeners can cause a rash.”

The risk of a pet running away also increases during the Halloween season. The door opening and closing to trick-or-treaters offers many opportunities for a pet to slip out unnoticed. Noise, commotion and frequent guests can ignite excitement and stress in the animal. VPI reports that according to their research Halloween is the second most common holiday for pets to become separated from their family.

“I encourage all pet lovers to keep a close eye on their pets during Halloween and to provide them with a quiet area to relax and feel safe,” said Dr. McConnell.

Also recommended is making sure the pets’ tags and identification is on the pet and is current. Follow these tips to keep pets safe this Halloween season and enjoy the scares without all the stress.

Reference:  http://pawsforreaction.blogspot.ca/2014/10/safety-tips-how-to-keep-pets-safe-from.html