“from Critter Cozy:
HALLOWEEN HAZARDS
While Halloween can be fun for both kids and adults it is a totally different story for your pet. We find the holiday fun but many pets are terrified. Here are a few things to keep in mind to have a Halloween celebration that keeps your pet safe.
1. Trick-or-treat candy and wrappers
There are many dangers associated with candy and its ingredients that can be deadly for your pet.
All forms of chocolate -- especially baking or dark chocolate. If your pet has been poisoned they may exhibit the following symptoms.
1. Vomiting 2. Increased heart rate
3. Diarrhea 4. Seizures
3. Rapid breathing
Candy containing xylitol, which is an artificial sweetener, can also be poisonous to your pet. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar and subsequent loss of coordination and seizures.
When pets eat candy they usually eat the wrapper as well. Ingestion of foil and cellophane wrappers can cause a life-threatening bowel obstruction, which if severe, may require surgery to remove. Watch for vomiting, decreased appetite, not defecating, straining to defecate, or lethargy. X-rays may
be necessary to diagnose this problem.
2. Don't leave pets out in the yard alone on Halloween. Amazingly, it has been reported that pranksters have been known to tease, injure, steal, and even kill pets on Halloween night.
3. Keep pets confined and away from the door during
trick or treat hours
The constant doorbell ringing and pounding at your door as well as strangers dressed in unusual costumes and yelling loudly for their candy, is very scary for our furry friends. Dogs are territorial and may become anxious and growl at these innocent visitors. Put your dog or cat in a secure room away from the front door will not only keep them safe but calmer as well.
4. Keep your outdoor cats inside
Black cats are especially at risk from pranks or other cruelty-related incidents. In fact, many shelters do not adopt out black cats during the month of October as a safety precaution.
5. Pets in a costume
If you do decide that your pet needs to dress for the holiday be certain they enjoy it and that you aren't dressing them for your own pleasure. Be certain the costume does not constrict movement, hearing, or the ability to breathe or bark and meow. If you really want to dress a pet who prefers going in the "birthday suit" try a bandana. There are many cute holiday themed ones that your pet may agree to wear.
6. Proper Identification
If your pet should escape and become lost, having the proper ID will increase the chances that they will be returned. Make sure the information is up-to-date!”