With Halloween around the corner it's a good time to think about the animals in your household and their safety that night. All those weird, loud noises as well as the little people traffic in and out of your home can be upsetting to your pet and can even lead to harm.
"Fireworks going off, a constantly ringing doorbell and the presence of costumed strangers can all cause animals to panic, putting both pets and people in danger," said Lorie Chortyk, BC SPCA general manager of community relations.
When dogs and cats are frightened they are more likely to run away from their homes, jump out of open windows or dart into traffic. Stressed pets can also behave out of character - even scratching or biting people, she said.
The BC SPCA offers these Halloween safety tips:
Keep pets inside: Pets who are inside have fewer opportunities to confront trick-or-treaters. Some pets do well left in a separate room with the radio or television on to mask the sound of fireworks and trick-or-treaters. Be sure to leave plenty of toys in the room for your pet so that he doesn't think he's being isolated as a punishment. If your pet finds the doorbell disturbing, consider disconnecting the doorbell for the night. Alternatively, you can leave a bowl of treats near the door outside where trick-or-treaters can help themselves. That way, they won't knock or ring the doorbell - at least not until the bowl is emptied.
Identification: Make sure your pet is wearing identification. Dogs and cats may try to run away if they feel threatened. Clear, current identification is your best chance to have them returned to you.
Don't console your anxious pet: While it is natural to want to comfort your pet, it is better to use a bright, cheerful voice to send a message that things are fine. Avoid saying things like, "it's OK" or "don't be scared" in a soft or sympathetic voice. This only reinforces your pet's fearful behaviour.
Candy is for people: Candy can lead to health problems such as diabetes or obesity, and chocolate is especially dangerous because it contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Keep treats well away from your pets.
Leave home without them: If you think it would be fun to bring your pet trick-or-treating, your pet may not share your view. The strange sights and sounds of Halloween can cause a normally friendly dog to bite if it feels scared or threatened.
Don't costume your pet: Dressing your dog in a costume may look cute, but it inhibits his ability to communicate, making him prone to display aggression or be subjected to aggressive behaviour from other dogs. He may also become entangled in his costume, which could cause injury or even choking.
See spca.bc.ca for more.
- Submitted
