As the fall season approaches, celebrations such as Halloween and Thanksgiving bring excitement and joy to our homes. But these festivities can pose unique hazards for our beloved pets. 

At Caring Paws Animal Hospital, we’re dedicated to helping you ensure your furry friends stay safe and happy during these holiday seasons.

Halloween Hazards for Pets

Here’s how to keep your pets safe during this spooky season: 

Keep Candy Out of Reach

Halloween treats are delightful for kids but dangerous for pets. Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, is toxic to dogs and cats. Additionally, sugar-free candies containing xylitol can cause severe health issues. Store candy in secure containers and keep it out of your pet’s reach.

Decorations and Costumes

Decorations can be fascinating for pets, but they also present risks. Here are some tips to keep your pets safe:

• Keep an eye on lit candles and jack-o’-lanterns to prevent burns or fires.
• Remember small decorations can be choking hazards if ingested.
• If you dress your pet in a costume, ensure it fits properly and doesn’t restrict movement, vision, or breathing.

Door Safety

Trick-or-treaters constantly ringing the doorbell can be stressful for pets. Consider keeping them in a quiet, secure room during peak hours to prevent them from darting out the door or becoming anxious.

Thanksgiving Hazards for Pets

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to gather with family and friends, but it poses several risks to our pets. Here’s how to keep them safe during the festivities.

Food Dangers

Thanksgiving is a time for feasting, but many traditional foods can be harmful to your pets. Here are some foods to avoid:

• Turkey bones, which can splinter and cause internal injuries.
• Onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins are toxic to pets.
• Stick to pet-safe treats and keep the feast on the table, not under it.

Check out this blog post for more information.  

Secure the Trash

The enticing smells from the trash can be irresistible to pets. Ensure the trash is securely covered to prevent them from ingesting harmful leftovers or packaging that could cause blockages.

Keep Guests in the Loop

Inform your guests about the house rules regarding your pets. Here are a few points to consider:

• Ask them not to feed your pets table scraps.
• Ensure they know to keep doors and gates closed.

Fall Holiday Hazards for Pets

The fall season presents specific hazards for pets. Here’s how to ensure their safety during this time.

Seasonal Plants and Decorations

Certain fall plants and decorations can be hazardous. Keep pets away from these items to prevent any issues:

• Decorative corn and dried gourds can cause stomach upset if chewed on.
• Poinsettias, often used in holiday decorating, are mildly toxic to pets.

Safe Space for Exotic Pets

For households with exotic pets such as rabbits or guinea pigs, make sure they have a quiet, secure space away from the hustle and bustle of holiday activities. Loud noises and unfamiliar people can be particularly stressful for these pets.

General Tips for a Safe Holiday Season

To ensure a safe holiday season for your pets, keep these general tips in mind:

• Identification: Ensure your pet has up-to-date identification tags or a microchip.
• Pet-Proofing: Take a moment to pet-proof your home by securing wires, small decorations, and harmful foods.
• Emergency Vet Info: Keep the contact information for Caring Paws Animal Hospital and the nearest emergency veterinary clinic handy.

Celebrate Safely with Your Furry Friends

Being mindful of these Halloween and Thanksgiving hazards for pets can help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season for everyone in your household. The team at Caring Paws Animal Hospital is here to support you in keeping your pets healthy and happy. Please call our office if you have any concerns or want to schedule a wellness visit.