The leaves are changes and pumpkins are popping up all over doorsteps here in Nassau County, Long Island, and the air is filled with an air of excitement – Halloween is just around the corner! While it’s a fun and exciting time for us, it can be scary and overwhelming for our furry friends. With costumes, decorations, and candy everywhere, it’s important to keep our pets safe during Halloween festivities. In this article, we’ll share some essential Halloween safety tips to ensure a howling good time for your cats and dogs.
Choose Pet-Friendly Costumes
If you’re planning on dressing up your pet, opt for costumes that are comfortable and safe. Ensure that the costume doesn’t obstruct their movement, breathing, or hearing. Avoid costumes with small, detachable parts that could be swallowed, and always supervise them while they’re wearing their outfits. Want some more tips? Check out more tips from the Animal Human Society here.
Pumpkin Precautions
Jack-o’-lanterns are a quintessential Halloween decoration, but they can pose a danger to your pets. Curious cats and dogs may investigate the flickering light and could accidentally knock over a candle. Instead, consider using battery-operated LED lights for a safer alternative. Looking for the best pumpkin patches in Long Island? Check out this list!
Secure Your Candy Stash
Halloween candy is not for our four-legged friends. Chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and some candies), and certain types of candy wrappers can be toxic to pets. Keep all sweets and treats out of their reach and securely stored in a high cabinet or closed container. Looking for other opportunities for Halloween treats? Check out these fun trunk or treat events – perfect for smaller children and those not wanting to walk long blocks.
Beware of Decorations
Ghoulish decorations can be intriguing to pets, but some of them can be hazardous. Fake cobwebs, glow sticks, and small decorations can pose choking hazards or be harmful if ingested. Keep decorations elevated and out of your pet’s reach.
Quiet Time for Nervous Nellies
Halloween can be a noisy and chaotic night, which may be unsettling for some pets. Create a quiet and comfortable space where they can retreat if they start to feel anxious. Provide familiar toys and bedding to help them feel secure. If your pet is easily spooked, consider using a white noise machine or calming music to drown out the sounds of trick-or-treaters. Additionally, allowing your pet to become familiar with costumes before the big night can help desensitize them. Looking for some low-key local fun? Check out the “Not-So-Scary” list of events or visit your local library for Not-So-Scary-At-The-Library reading events.
Keep Them Indoors
With the increased foot traffic and excitement outside, it’s best to keep your pets indoors during Halloween night. This will not only prevent them from getting spooked or stressed but also protects them from potential hazards or pranks. And if attending big Halloween events, leave your pets at home.
ID Tags and Microchipping
Ensure that your pet’s ID tags are up-to-date with current contact information. Halloween can be a time when pets may become frightened and bolt. Having a microchip with updated information provides an added layer of security.
* Edited May 2024
have our Oath Animal Hospital team help “perform surgery” to fix them up in exchange for a new toy to be donated to NYU Langone Hospital – Long Island Pediatric Center in Hempstead. Thank you to everyone who attended, supported and donated!
