Halloween Safety

Trick or Treat! Halloween is a fun time for families, especially when you involve the family pet in the costume designs! However, just as fun as it can be for everyone, it can also prove to be a very dangerous time for your pet when it comes to candy. 

Help ensure a safe Halloween for you and your pet by following these guidelines. 

1. Don't feed pets Halloween candy, especially if it contains chocolate or xylitol (a common sugar substitute found in sugar-free candies and gum).
2. Make sure your pet is properly identified (collar, ID tag, and microchip) just in case they make a dash out the door as you're distracted by trick-or-treaters.
3. If your pet is wary of strangers or tends to nip/bite, put them in separate room during trick-or-treating hours or provide him/her with a safe hiding place.
4. Ensure Jack-o-lanterns and lit candles stay out of reach of your pets. 
5. If you decide you want to put a costume on your pet, make sure of a few things including 
• Proper fit and comfort.
• It doesn’t have pieces that can easily be chewed off.
• doesn't interfere with your pet's breathing, hearing, sight, opening its mouth, or movement. 
• Get your pet accustomed to the costume before Halloween.
• NEVER leave your pet unsupervised while wearing a costume.
6. Glow sticks/ jewelry should be kept away from pets. The liquid in these products may be non-toxic, however the taste is very bad and can make pets salivate excessively and act strangely.

Have a Spooktacular and safe Halloween this year! 

Tips to Keep Your Cat Safe This Halloween

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

It's almost time for Halloween!  As you and your family get ready to celebrate with costumes and treats, don't forget to keep your pets in mind!  Here are a few Halloween safety tips to help make sure your cat enjoys a safe Halloween.

Cat Safety Tips:

• Keep Candy Out of Reach - Chocolate and other candies can be very dangerous to cats.  Xylitol, an artificial sweetener commonly found in candies and gum can also cause health problems.  If you suspect your pet has eaten anything toxic, contact our office immediately.
• Be Conscious of Decorations - Halloween decorations can be hazardous to cats.  Substitute real candles with artificial candles for a spooky effect that isn't dangerous if knocked over by your pet.
• Put Your Cat in a Safe Room - Your door may be opening and closing a lot as trick-or-treaters come to visit this Halloween.  Keep your cat in a separate room to make sure that he or she doesn't dart outside.
• Avoid Costumes - In general, cats do not usually like wearing costumes.  Don't force your cat into a costume unless you know they enjoy playing dress up

Check out this article for more information on how to celebrate Halloween safely with your cat.  As always, you can contact our office if you have any questions about your pet's health!

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