Halloween Hazards for Rochester and Springfield, IL Pets

www.vandervets.com

1)  Candy
 
Chocolate and xylitol (a sugar substitute) can be toxic to pets.  It is important to keep all candy in a place that is inaccessible by your pets.  If your pet does consume candy, please call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control right away, 1-888-426-4435. 
 
2) Trick-or-Treaters
 
Doorbells, strangers in masks, and an open door can be a brewing storm of anxiety and all a stressed pet needs for a great escape.  It might be best to have your pet in another room with the door closed to decrease their stress, or at least have your dog on a leash in order to keep them close by you.  This is a great time to be sure that your pet’s microchip information is up to date, just in case.
 
3)  Costumes
 
If you decide to dress your pet up in a cute costume, be sure it fits and is not too snug, especially around the neck.  Pets like to roll and rub on the floor sometimes with clothes on, so it is important that there are no constricting parts around the neck area.  Another thing to keep in mind is any small parts that come on the costume, cats and dogs have been known to chew these off, which is a fright that no one needs.
 
4)  Decorations
 
Candles, Jack-0-Lanterns with candles, and light strands can be dangerous to a pet.  Pumpkins and candles can easily be knocked over by an unknowing dog or cat, and for some reason strands of lights are often chewed on by dogs and cats.  Be sure to only have candles going in places that are supervised or put decorations in places where they can’t be knocked over.  And always turn light strands off if you are not nearby to avoid your pet getting injured.
 
We would love to see your Halloween pets in costume or trick-or-treating with the family.  Send us pictures or stop by the clinic!  Our mission is to provide high quality, compassionate veterinary care with a personal touch.  We strive to maintain a friendly and comfortable environment for pets and owners and are committed to building strong, respectful, and honest relationships with our clients.  Through teamwork, we are dedicated to ensuring the best care possible and treating pets as if they were our own.