WASHINGTON – The HSUS wants to remind people with companion
animals that Halloween can be a really frightening holiday for
pets. While adults and children alike enjoy the costumes and
candy, these things can actually distress or endanger a
companion animal.
Nancy Peterson, HSUS companion animals issues specialist,
cautions, “Dogs and cats rely on daily routine. When that
routine is disrupted by lots of noise and commotion, like
trick-or-treaters ringing the doorbell or lots of strangers in
unusual clothes in their house, pets can become frightened or
agitated. It’s best to keep pets at a safe distance from the
festivities.”
To help people keep their pets safe at Halloween, The HSUS
recommends taking these precautions:
• Keep pets safely inside, away from trick-or-treaters and
other Halloween activities. This will ensure that pets won’t
become frightened or feel threatened at the sight of noisy
costumed children. Cats, especially black ones, may be the
target of pranksters. In addition, frequently opened doors
provide a perfect opportunity for escape, which can go
unnoticed during all of the commotion. Be sure all pets are
wearing collars with ID tags in case of accidental escape.
• Keep candy out of your pet’s reach. Candy can be harmful
to pets and chocolate is toxic to cats, dogs, and ferrets.
• Keep pets away from decorations. Flames in jack-o-lanterns
and candles can quickly singe, burn or set fire to a pet’s fur.
Pets can become tangled in hanging decorations like streamers
and can choke on some decorations if they chew on them.
• Resist the urge to put your furry friend in costume. Most
pets dislike the confinement of costumes and masks, and flowing
capes can cause injuries if pets get caught on something.
• Don’t bring the family dog along for trick-or-treating.
Dogs may become difficult to handle during the noise and
confusion of the festivities. A lost dog or dog bite will
quickly end your Halloween fun.
The HSUS also cautions animal shelters not to adopt out
black cats during the Halloween season. Unfortunately, during
Halloween black cats are the targets of pranks, mischief, or
worse—that can put cats at a high risk of being harmed. People
with black cats should be extra careful about keeping their
cats safe during this time.
“Keep your pet safe in an enclosed area with a toy and
soothing music,” adds Peterson. “Resist the urge to include
your pet in your Halloween activities, and everyone can enjoy
the holiday.”
