With Halloween just around the corner and households beginning to prepare and decorate for the season, pet owners are being warned about common hazards that could put their furry friends at risk.
Pet insurance experts at https://www.tiger.co.uk/pet-insurance/ Tiger.co.uk have shared five key risks to be aware of during the Halloween period, along with tips on how to keep pets safe and stress-free.
From keeping treats and pumpkins out of reach to managing the stress caused by costumes, decorations, and trick-or-treaters, experts are encouraging households to take a few simple precautions to ensure pets stay happy and healthy this spooky season.
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Warning for pet owners as Halloween approaches
Homeowners are being warned to watch out for five common Halloween hazards that could pose serious risks to pets.
Pet insurance experts at https://www.tiger.co.uk/pet-insurance/ Tiger.co.uk are highlighting dangers including toxic treats, choking hazards, and costume-related injuries that could harm pets during the spooky season.
Halloween can be an exciting time of year, filled with festivities, but it can also be overwhelming and even dangerous for pets if precautions aren’t taken. The Pet Poison helpline in the US said Halloween week is their busiest time of the year, with a 12% surge in calls, most reporting that pets have accidentally ingested decorations or chocolates. With many households preparing to host get-togethers or welcome trick or treaters this Halloween, pet owners are urged to keep their pets’ safety front of mind and plan ahead.
Halloween treats are everywhere this time of year, many – including chocolate and sweets – can be toxic to pets, so it’s important to always keep them well out of reach to avoid accidental ingestion.
Pumpkin carving can also pose a risk as seeds and tough rinds may cause choking or digestive issues, while prickly stems can cause discomfort.
If using decorations and costumes, they should be securely fastened, and pets should never be left unattended, as they can pose suffocation risks. The RSPCA says searches for dog costumes peak around Halloween time, with 110,000 additional Google searches, warning owners to be vigilant and conscious of their pet’s welfare at all times.
Ian Wilson, Managing Director at <http://tiger.co.uk/>
Tiger.co.uk said: “Whilst Halloween is full of family-friendly festivities , it can also bring hidden dangers for pets. Treats, decorations, and costumes can all pose risks, and unattended pets may easily find themselves in harm’s way. To help keep them safe, always keep treats and decorations out of reach, and supervise pets closely – especially if they’re in costume. If you’re hosting a party, it may be sensible to keep pets safely secured in another part of the house, as not all guests may be aware which foods are potentially poisonous. If your pet is normally anxious around this time of year with lots of loud noises and changes to their surroundings, you can speak to your vet for advice and tips on how to reduce stress, such as extra walks and safe spaces to relax, so all the family can have a safe and enjoyable Halloween.”
Five dangers to watch out for this Halloween:
1.Halloween treats
Sweets, chocolate, and raisins are common at Halloween but can be harmful to pets. Chocolate is toxic to cats and dogs because it contains a chemical called theobromine, which can make them sick or cause them to have diarrhoea. Sweets with high sugar content can cause stomach upset, whilst raisins are especially harmful and may lead to serious issues like kidney failure. To help keep your pet safe, always store Halloween treats well out of their reach.
2.Pumpkins
Carving pumpkins and decorating the house can be a fun way to celebrate the Halloween season, but the seeds and rind can be choking hazards or cause digestive issues for pets, so they should be disposed of safely or kept well out of your pet’s reach. If you’re making pumpkin recipes, be careful not to feed them to dogs, as added ingredients like nutmeg and xylitol can make pets very unwell. Dogs in particular may become dehydrated and can even suffer seizures and liver failure.
3.Pet costumes
Some pet owners consider dressing up their furry friends in costumes as a fun way to include them in the festivities, although it’s always important to prioritise your pet’s safety and comfort. Pets should never be left unattended while wearing costumes, as outfits can pose risks of suffocation or choking hazards from small or loose parts. If your pet shows signs of distress or discomfort, it’s important to remove the costume immediately.
4.Decorations
Decorations can confuse or frighten pets, especially if they make noises or have flashing lights. If your pet seems anxious, move them to a quiet space. Also make sure that decorations are secured properly or kept out of your pet’s reach to prevent choking hazards or the risk of suffocation. Avoid decorations with small, loose parts that curious pets might chew or swallow.
5.Trick or treaters
Halloween can be a stressful night for pets, with a constant stream of trick or treaters, loud noises, and unfamiliar faces at the door. The excitement can easily startle animals or cause anxiety. To keep them safe, keep pets away from the front door and make sure they can’t slip out while you’re greeting guests. Providing a quiet, secure room with their favourite bed or toys can help them stay calm throughout the evening.
Tiger gives animal lovers the tools to help them compare and find savings on all sorts of https://www.tiger.co.uk/pet-insurance/ pet insurance, such as puppy, older dog or multi pet insurance.
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A very insightful perspective on the matter.