-First off, leaving your pet outside may not be a good idea since there are always tales of malicious people who tease, injure, steal, torture, even killed pets on Halloween. Not to mention that dogs and cats can scare easily with all the trick-or-treaters coming to your house.
-As much as your dog or cat may beg for some of your Halloween candy, always remember that chocolate is deadly to them in any amount.
-This is the time of year that can be deadly for black cats. Some people who play at being what they'll call a Satanist will take them to "sacrifice."
-The wrappers, such as tin foil, can get stuck in your pets digestive tract and make them ill or cause death.
-Even the friendliest pet may feel threatened or scared with all the extra activity. Door bells ringing, strange looking people, all kinds of unusual stuff. This could cause the dog to become aggressive and potentially bite or attack. Therefore, take extra caution before letting strangers near your pet.
-Dogs can have lethal tails, wagging all over the place. Don't leave any lighted candles or Jack-O-Lanterns where they could be knocked over by a swinging tail or by a curious cat. Not only could your pet start a fire but they could severely burn themselves in the process.
-If you are going to dress your pet in a costume, keep in mind that unless the dog or cat is extremely receptive to this kind of thing, you could be causing it discomfort and stress. Some animals don't mind at all but others do not want to be bothered with this kind of thing. They'll be under enough stress with the festivities going on outside and people at the door constantly so don't cause them any more nervousness then you have to. You may love to dress in costume but then, you aren't a dog or a cat.
-If you put a mask of some type on your animal, make sure that the eye holes are big enough for them to see peripherally. Animals depend on their vision to let them know what's going on and even the nicest dog can get snippy if he can't see what's around him. In fact, masks really aren't a good idea.
-If you are having a indoor party, make sure that you put your dog or cat in a room where they won't be disturbed. Unless your pet is ultra friendly and doesn't mind loud noises, music and lots of people you should keep them separate for the night.
-Be careful your cat or dog doesn't dart out through the open door as you hand out candy. Best bet is to just put them in a room with some food and water for the night and check on them once in a while to let them know everything is fine.
Portions of these tips taken from http://www.halloween-safety.com/halloween_safety_pets.html
Trackposted to Outside the Beltway, Webloggin, The Pink Flamingo, The Amboy Times, Adeline and Hazel, and The Yankee Sailor, thanks to Linkfest Haven Deluxe.
