Halloween in Durango brings a beautiful blend of spooky fun and chilly fall evenings. While you’re prepping costumes and candy bowls, it’s easy to overlook some hidden hazards that can sneak up on your pets. Kindness Animal Hospital wants your animal companions to enjoy a safe, stress-free Halloween, so here are five lesser-known dangers to keep in mind this spooky season.
Glowsticks and Pets
Glowsticks are a Halloween staple for kids and trick-or-treaters, but for curious dogs and cats, they can look like chew toys. If punctured, the glowing liquid inside may not be life-threatening, but it can cause mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting.
Keep glow-in-the-dark accessories out of reach, and if your pet bites into one, rinse their mouth with water and watch them closely. Contact a veterinarian right away if they show signs of being ill.
Halloween Decorations That Look Too Much Like Toys
Fake spider webs, plastic skeletons, loose string lights, and hanging decorations may all seem like playthings to your pet. Chewing or swallowing these items can lead to digestive blockages, choking, or injury. Keep decorations elevated or confined to areas where pets can’t access them, especially if you have an adventurous pup or an acrobatic cat!
Pet Costumes Can Be More Stressful Than Stylish
While it’s tempting to dress your dog as a hot dog or your cat as a bat, not all pets are fans of festive fashion. Costumes can limit movement, overheat pets, or stress them out, especially if they cover the face or ears.
Only dress up your pet if:
- They are relaxed and cooperative
- The costume allows full movement and breathing
- There are no small parts to chew or swallow
When in doubt, opt for a fun collar or Halloween-themed bandana instead.
Nonstop Doorbell Ringing and Trick-or-Treaters
Between costumed visitors and frequent doorbell chimes, even the calmest pets can become anxious or reactive. Dogs may bark nonstop or try to escape, while cats often hide for hours.
Set up a quiet room with their favorite bed and toys. Use white noise or soft music to block out outside sounds. Make sure your pet wears a collar with ID tags securely fastened, just in case they manage to dart out of your home. For extra protection, consider getting your pet microchipped if they aren’t already.
Keep Halloween Candy Away from Your Pet
Most pet owners know chocolate is toxic, but Halloween treats can include other hidden dangers like xylitol (in sugar-free gum and candy), raisins (often found in “healthy” snack mixes), macadamia nuts, and candy wrappers.
All candy should stay out of reach, and remind children not to share with pets. If your pet gets into the Halloween candy, contact Animal Poison Control. This hotline does charge a fee for their services, but you will be able to speak with an expert who will let you know whether you can take care of your pet at home or if you need to bring them into a local emergency vet right away.
Avoid Halloween Dangers with Your Pet in Durango, CO
At Kindness Animal Hospital, we know Halloween can be just as fun for cats and dogs as people, as long as it’s handled with care. By spotting hidden dangers before they become problems, you can make this spooky season safe and enjoyable for every member of the family. Have questions about Halloween safety or want to get your pet microchipped before trick-or-treat night? Contact Kindness Animal Hospital in Durango, CO.