Halloween Dangers

Halloween can be very dangerous for dogs and cats.  The candy alone can be very dangerous, but in addition to candy there are many other Halloween dangers: 

Chocolate is very dangerous and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy or agitation, increased thirst, an elevated heart rate, and, in severe cases, seizures. The darker the chocolate the more toxic it is, in fact, bakers chocolate is the most dangerous. 

Candy is dangerous due to xylitol poisoning, a sugar substitute. Also large ingestions of sugar and fat can cause pancreatitis. 
Candy Wrappers can cause life threatening bowel obstructions. Pets usually don’t stop at the candy but eat the wrappers too! 

Glow Sticks and Jewelry over the past year the pet poison line received many calls mostly regarding cats that had punctured these items and were concerned about poisoning. Thank goodness these items are usually not life threatening but can cause pain and irritation to the mouth.

Pet’s Costumes make sure it does not impair their vision, movement, or air intake. Also make sure they do not chew on it. It can contain dyes that, although, safe to humans, can be dangerous to pets and metal buttons that can contain zinc or lead and result in poisoning or bowel obstruction.

Candles many pets unknowingly will burn their noses or tails on candles. Keep burning candles out of reach.

Also the Arizona Veterinary Medical Association recommends keeping pets indoors on Halloween night away from the front door. They recommend making sure they are microchipped or at the very least making sure that they are wearing a collar with proper identification, as well. Have a happy and safe Halloween!