5 "C" Words that Spell Halloween Catastrophe for Pets

Halloween is a fun family holiday, but with its treats and traditions come a variety of seasonal safety hazards for your pets. To keep your celebrations safe for the whole family and avoid an emergency visit to your Laguna Hills veterinarian, watch out for the following five "C" words this Halloween: 

1. Chocolate

Most people know dogs can't have chocolate, but did you know it's toxic for cats too, or that animals can smell it through layers of fabric? Even if chocolate bars are at the bottom of a purse or zipped up in a backpack, your dog could still sniff it out and scratch or chew his way to a toxic reaction.

2. Candy

Whether or not your candy contains chocolate, keep it out of your pets' reach as a general rule. Hard candies are choking hazards, sugar-free candies often use a sugar substitute that is toxic for dogs, and cellophane and foil wrappers cause potentially fatal bowel obstructions when digested. 

3. Complicated Costumes

There are plenty of pet-friendly Halloween events in Laguna Hills this year, including pet costume contests and parades that encourage participation. If you participate, make sure your pet's costume doesn’t cause overheating, contain small choking hazards, or restrict their movement, vision, or hearing.  

4. Candles

From jack-o-lanterns and luminaries to gothic candelabras and scented pumpkin candles, open flames are everywhere in October. Your curious and clumsy pets are no match for fire or hot wax, so opt for LED alternatives this Halloween. This will prevent them from starting a fire or burning their fur, paws, or faces.

5. Chaos and Commotion

At Trinity Pet Hospital, our fast and easy microchipping service creates a permanent link between you and your pets. However, we hope it's never necessary to scan your pets' microchips. As trick-or-treaters come and go, keep them in a closed room to prevent escapes during the commotion of costumed strangers and candy exchanges.  

We hope Halloween is only scary in a good way this year. Have fun and remember to follow our advice for a happy and pet-safe Halloween! How will you keep your pets safe as you celebrate?