Halloween can be a scary time for pets. Keep them safe with these tips

SAN ANTONIO – With Halloween coming up, Animal Care Services has put together a list of tips to help keep your pets safe.

ACS said sometimes good intentions can go bad as pet owners include their furry friends in the festivities.

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They offered the following tips to keep pets safe:

  • Chocolate of any type, even a nibble, can be toxic and potentially fatal to dogs and cats. Keep holiday goodies like candies and cookies away from your pets.
  • Talk to your kids about the danger of giving your pet Halloween treats.
  • Cellophane and foil wrappers, lollipop and caramel apple sticks should be thrown away immediately. They pose a choking hazard to pets if swallowed.
  • Trick-or-treating may be fun for the family but the constant ringing of the doorbell can scare your pet. Provide a quiet, safe place for your pet to relax.
  • Although it may be tempting to bring Fido along while trick-or-treating, holiday masks and costumes could be threatening to your family pet. Fear may lead to protective or aggressive behavior like biting and growling.
  • Keep your pet safe inside for the evening if you're worried trick or treaters may scare or bother your outdoor pet.
  • Halloween decorations, like jack-o-lantern candles and electric strings of lights can spark curiosity in pets. Keep them out of reach.
  • Not all pets will tolerate wearing a costume or embellished collar. Get your pet in on the Halloween fun by providing a holiday themed treat for them to enjoy.