Halloween Hazards for Animals

With Halloween just around the corner, we want to help folk avoid making Halloween a time of horror for pets.

You may already know all of this, so please pass it on to others who might not know about the risks. Make a point of telling any children or grandchildren who might not realise that some of their Halloween treats could be dangerously tricky for their pets.

CHOCOLATES

One of the most dangerous things to feed dogs is chocolate. There are chemicals in chocolate which, even in small quantities, can prove fatal to dogs. The problem chemicals are theobromine and, to a lesser extent, caffeine. These cause stimulation of the central nervous system and heart which can kill canines. If a dog consumes even a small amount of chocolate do not hesitate – get advice from a vet right away. This video from PDSA explains why chocolate can be harmful.

If getting to a vet is difficult, it is advisable to have some activated charcoal on hand as it can help absorb the toxins from ingesting chocolate. Always check with a vet before administering any medicine. 

THREATS TO PETS

Another problem at Halloween is that dogs and cats can get a fright too. Suddenly confronted by weird ghouls and monsters, some animals will run away and others will attack. Be aware of this and if your pet is nervous, keep it inside and away from the door when guisers call. You don’t want anyone to be injured or your pet to suffer under the auspices of the Dangerous Dogs Act.

FLAMMABLE COSTUMES

However tempting it might be, it’s not a good idea to dress pets in a Halloween costume. Apart from causing your pet distress it could be very dangerous. A few years ago we tested the fire retardant quality of a canine costume. The costume proved to be highly flammable.

Check out the result on the following link and let others know of the dangers: https://www.adviceaboutanimals.info/newsoctoberarticle5.html

While many people have reduced risks by using battery powered lights instead of candles, it remains important that flammable costumes are kept far from any flame.

BIG BANG FRIGHTS
Fireworks, caps, cracker snaps and party poppers have also become synonymous with Halloween, and have sent many a pet cowering in fear.

Fireworks such as the ones pictured here, on display at The Range, can be easily purchased by anyone over 18.

There is no warning to pet owners when these will be set off. Stories have come in of pets being let out in the garden only to have the loud bangs of fireworks or firecrackers send them running in terror, or refusing to leave the house for days for fear.

PLEASE SIGN AND SHARE OUR PETITION!

Retailers need to understand the terror and trauma they are selling to the public. Please sign our petition to help deliver the message that selling fireworks is encouraging people to participate in terrorising animals, and it needs to stop.

                Get Fireworks Off Supermarket Shelves

TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR PET

To help protect pets from the impact of fireworks and other loud bangs, here are some tips;

• Check for any local announcements on planned firework displays.

• Ask neighbours known to use fireworks to let you know in advance if and when they intend to set them off so you can prepare.

• Create a safe space for your animal as far from the noise as possible.

• Use soothing music or turn the volume up on the TV to help drown out the bangs.

• Give them plenty of outdoor time during the day to run around.

• For outdoor animals, ensure they have a safe, secure shelter to stay in during firework displays.

• Consider using calming essential oils or safe sedatives for animals.

• Try a 'thunder' wrap on your dog. Tutorial video on how to make your own thunder wrap here. 

For our full list of advice, visit this link.