Halloween Pet Safety Tips, Common Dangers to Pets

Halloween Pet Safety Tips can help you ensure that your pets are not harmed during All Hallows Eve. Let us see the common Halloween Dangers and Pet Safety Tips and Ideas to curb these dangers.

Halloween Dangers to Pets

According to Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 Animal Poison Control Center, during the Halloween week, calls to the veterinarians at the center increase by 12 percent, making it the call center’s busiest time of year. They say amongst other dangers, the four most popular food-related Halloween hazards or dangers for pets are candy overindulgence, chocolate, raisins as well as candy wrappers.

Candy Overindulgence Dangers

Pets cannot choose what to eat when it comes to treats. They can eat even snacks and food meant for humans. Pancreatitis, an ailment known to be potentially fatal in pets, is usually caused by large ingestions of sugary, high-fat candy Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas and it is very painful. It may not show up for two to four days after the pet ingests the candy. Warning signs include decreased desire for food, abdominal pain, diarrhea, lethargy, vomiting and potentially, organ injury or failure of the kidney.

Grapes & Raisins are Dangers to Pets

Mini-boxes of raisins which are considered as healthy alternatives to candy are dangerous to pets especially dogs.

Halloween Pet Safety Tips, Common Dangers — Black Cat

Very small amounts of raisins (and grapes) can cause kidney failure in dogs and, potentially, cats. Ensure you keep raisins and grapes in secure containers far from the reach your pets. Unfortunately, if dogs ingest any amount, the potential poisoning is so high. Hence, any ingestion of raisins or grapes should be treated as a “poisoning” case. Symptoms include vomiting, decreased appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, lethargy, and severe kidney failure.

Chocolate Dangers to Pets

Of all candy, Chocolate has been known to be one of the most poisonous candy to pets. Many dogs are essentially attracted to the scent and taste of chocolate, making it a significant threat. The darker and more bitter the chocolate, the more poisonous it is. The main chemicals in chocolate that make it dangerous to pets are called methylxanthines. These chemicals are similar to caffeine and more heavily concentrated in the darker varieties. In fact, a 50-pound dog can be sickened by ingesting only one ounce of Baker’s chocolate! On the other hand, it may take up to eight ounces, (half a pound) of milk or white chocolate to cause poisoning in that same sized dog. White chocolate contains very low amounts of methylxanthine and hardly causes poisoning. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, agitation, lethargy, increased thirst, an elevated heart rate, and in severe cases, seizures.

Glow Sticks and Glow Jewelry Dangers to Pets

Pets, especially cats, are fond of chewing on glow sticks and jewelry. While not usually life-threatening, the contents of these items can cause pain and irritation in the mouth, as well as profuse drooling and foaming at the mouth.

Candy Wrapper Dangers to Pets

Candy wrapper are extremely dangerous to pets. Ingestion of foil and cellophane wrappers can cause a life-threatening bowel obstruction, which if serious, can require surgical intervention to correct. Symptoms include decreased appetite, vomiting, not defecating, straining to defecate, or lethargy. X-rays may be necessary to diagnose this problem.

Halloween Costumes Dangers To pets

Pets may look cute t when costumes, but they may not welcome the idea being dressed in costumes. Be sure to try the costumes before buying. Choose well-fitting that may not ruin your pets movement, ability to see or breathing. In case the costume is made from beads of metal, snaps or any other small pieces, keep in mind that if ingested, some metals ( lead and Zinc in particular) can lead to severe poisoning.

Candles

Lit candles are potential dangers to pets. Keep candles away from curious noses and wagging tails.