As we prepare for the spookiest season of the year, it’s important to remember the well-being of our four-legged family members.
Halloween can be full of fun, but it also presents potential hazards for our pets. Here are some quick tips from Animal Care to ensure your furry friends have a safe and enjoyable Halloween:
- Candy awareness: Keep Halloween candies and treats out of reach. Many sweets can be harmful to pets and chocolate is especially dangerous. Be cautious of candies sweetened with xylitol, which can be extremely toxic to pets. Ensure your candy stash is safely stored.
- Candle caution: If you use candles or jack-o’-lanterns, be mindful of curious tails and paws. Opt for battery-operated candles to eliminate a fire hazard.
- Costume comfort: While dressing up your pet can be adorable, ensure their costume is comfortable and safe. Avoid masks that can obstruct vision and make sure they can move easily.
- Firework frights: Fireworks can be distressing for pets. Keep pets indoors, create a calming environment, and consider using calming pheromone products if needed.
- Secure environment: During trick-or-treating hours, keep your pets in a quiet, secure space inside your home. The constant doorbell ringing and the parade of strangers can be stressful.
- Watch for escape: With frequent door openings, there’s a higher risk of pets escaping. Ensure your pets have proper identification (collars and microchips).
Let’s make this Halloween a memorable one for all the right reasons. Keep your pets safe to ensure they enjoy the festivities just as much as you do.
For more information about animals available for adoption in San Bernardino County’s Big Bear and Devore Animal Shelters, please visit animalcare.sbcounty.gov/pets or call (800) 472-5609.
To make a donation to assist animals at the shelter, visit arffund.org.
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