Halloween Dog Safety Tips from Animal Expert

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — As Halloween approaches, many pet owners are excited to include their dogs in the festivities. However, the spooky holiday can pose dangers for our four-legged friends.

Nationwide Pet Insurance reports a 12% increase in visits to emergency veterinary practices during the week of Oct. 31.

“Many pet parents enjoy including their pup in Halloween festivities but don’t realize that the holiday can be hazardous for pets,” said Erin Askeland, an Animal Health & Behavior Expert at Camp Bow Wow. “It’s estimated that thousands of dogs are injured or become ill every year due to Halloween traditions like costumes, decorations and treats.”

Askeland offered several tips to ensure a safe Halloween for pets:

Avoid taking dogs trick-or-treating. Dogs can become frightened by strangers or their costumes, which might cause them to behave unpredictably. They could potentially bite someone or run away if they feel threatened, so it's better to keep them in a secure space.

Ensure your dog's costume is safe. The costume should allow for free movement, vision, and breathing. Avoid costumes with small, dangling pieces that can be easily chewed off. Try the costume on before the holiday to check for any abnormal behavior.

Keep candy out of reach. Chocolate, especially dark chocolate and baking chocolate, can be toxic to dogs. If you suspect your pet has eaten chocolate, contact your veterinarian or local poison control immediately.

Be mindful of decorations. Dogs are often tempted to eat things, and extra food items like painted pumpkins or decorative candy can be hazardous. Decorations such as faux cobwebs and plastic spiders may cause intestinal issues if ingested.

By following these tips, pet owners can help ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for their furry companions.