Pet expert warns against the ‘healthy Halloween treat’ can prove deadly to dogs

A PET expert has revealed that a seemingly safe Halloween treat could prove deadly to pets.

With spooky season now in full swing, many of us will be avidly decorating our homes from head to toe with spiderwebs, skeletons and pumpkins, ahead of Halloween parties, spooky movie nights and the arrival of trick or treaters.

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Of course, it is common knowledge that dogs cannot eat chocolate so pet owners will be keeping any Halloween candy away from their pooches.

However, pet professional Andrew Leal, CEO of pet insurance company Waggel revealed there is another tasty seasonal treat that pets should be kept away from.

Carving pumpkins into spooky shapes and then baking the insides into pies is a classic Halloween activity, but did you know that the healthy vegetable can actually be a threat to pets?

Andrew said: “Domestic dogs can consume pumpkin in certain forms – ideally skinned and chopped, baked, or turned into puree.

“Pumpkin is actually a good source of fibre and trace elements, and it’s been found to aid doggy digestion.

“However, some parts of pumpkins are unsafe for our four-legged legends to chow-down on.” 

Pumpkin skin can be a choking hazard for small dogs and puppies and can block the stomach and intestines.

Andrew explained: “Pumpkin stems and leaves are covered in tiny, prickly hairs.

“These can harm dogs – particularly puppies – because they can aggravate the mouth during mastication, the throat on the way down, and the stomach once swallowed.”  

If you think there is a chance your dog may try to eat the pumpkins you carve this Halloween, you should get rid of the leaves and stems.

Or, if you want to leave the pumpkin completely intact, make sure they are out of reach of your pets.

Andrew added that anything that includes sugar, spices and artificial sweeteners is a no-no for pets.

He revealed that these treats can lead to gastrointestinal distress, pancreatitis, or worse.

Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions and garlic should also be kept away from pets too.

How to keep your pet safe around Halloween

1. Secure your treats

Store all Halloween goodies in high cabinets or sealed containers well out of your pet's reach.

2. Create a safe space

Set up a quiet room for your pet away from the excitement and potential temptations.

3. Educate guests

Inform visitors, especially children, not to feed your pet any treats.

4. Use pet-safe decorations

Opt for pet-friendly decorations and keep small items that could be swallowed out of reach.

5. Keep an eye on the door

Ensure your pet doesn't slip out when you're greeting trick-or-treaters.

6. Prepare pet-safe treats in advance

Carrot sticks or small pieces of cooked, unseasoned pumpkin can be great alternatives so your furry friend can join in the festivities without any risk.

“I suggest keeping pets away from all potentially harmful foods during Halloween,” says Andrew. “Halloween is for kids – not canines.

“If your dog ingests unprepared pumpkin or any of the other goodies mentioned above – they may vomit!

“If they don’t, keep an eye on them afterwards and be prepared for a possible trip to the vet.”