Halloween is today, but it’s not too late to consider safety factors around this time of year for our beloved pets. Dogs and cats can become very anxious Halloween night with all of the activity. If at all possible, leave your pet in a quiet, comfortable room away from all the trick-or-treaters. Leave plenty of water, a few treats, toys and a radio or television on and this will help keep your pet calm and safe until your doors are locked and lights are turned off.
Please don’t give your pets candy, especially chocolate, which can be very dangerous and even lethal. Chocolate, when ingested by pets, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate and seizures. Also, the artificial sweetener xylitol can be poisonous to dogs. It can also cause a sudden drop in blood pressure.
Pumpkins are a hallmark of Halloween, but if pets decide to have one for a snack, a pumpkin can cause terrible gastric problems so it’s best to keep them away from them. Use caution if you have lit pumpkins. Cats and dogs are very curious, and could get burnt or have a fire. Many pets are curious about electrical cords so we need to be careful with them. If a pet bit into an electrical cord, it could cause a life-threatening shock.
Always, always have identification on your pet and make sure all the information is current. Years ago, we had a dog named Sheba who was petrified of thunderstorms. During one particular storm, she managed to get out of the house and took off. Luckily she ran into someone’ garage, probably trying to get away from the storm. They saw her ID and called us immediately. We were so relieved. Sheba was not street smart, and we were petrified she would be hit by a car.
If your pet does not have an identification tag, please consider getting one.
Consider stopping by the Central Aroostook Humane Society if you are looking for a new furry family member. We have many wonderful and loving pets available for adoption. Our hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closing for lunch from 12 to 12:30.
Please be responsible: spay and neuter your pets.
Carolyn Cheney is a member of the Board of Directors of the Central Aroostook Humane Society.
