Dog Owners Beware: 9 Spooky Dangers Threatening Your Pups On Halloween

Halloween is almost here, meaning many families are currentlypreparing for a full night of costumes, candy, and haunts.

And while all the festivities canbe delightfully spookyfor humans, they can also be uncomfortable and stressful for dogs.

Pooches that are a bit squeamish around strangers can become terrified by all of the costumed kids walking around outside or ringing the doorbell.

Even some of the most seemingly harmless aspects of Halloween like the costumes, candy, and decorations can be dangerous or fatal for your furry baby.

Just like when you take them to the beach, on a hike, or on a road trip, it’s important to prep your dog with safety precautions to keep their tail wagging through any scenario.

These Halloween-themedsafety tips will ensure that your pet feels safe and happy on the big costume-clad night.

Halloween is supposed to be little scary, but these tips will ensure that there is no real danger for your dog.

Warning #1: Keep Pups Away From Halloween Candy

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Morgan Swofford for LittleThings

Halloween night will be filled with candy, especially if you have kids or are anticipating trick-or-treaters.

This is great for those who have a sweet tooth, but candy and chocolate can be deadly for your dog.

TheAmerican Veterinary Medical Association advises that all candy and chocolate be placed well away from your pooch so they don’t accidentally eat it.

If they do end of getting into thecandy, call thePet Poison Hotline, or head to the vet.

Warning #2: Beware Of Doggy Halloween Costumes

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Morgan Swofford for LittleThings

Dressing our dogs up in little sweaters and costumes is admittedly pretty darn cute but costumes can be very stressful for dogs, and sometimes even dangerous.

If you have to dress up your pooch, make sure that the costume doesn’t effect their sight, breathing, hearing, or body temperature.

Additionally, cheap Halloween costumes are notoriously flammable, so keep a very close eye on costumed pets at all times.

All told, it’s probably best to avoid pet costumes altogether even ifyour pup would look very cute as a little lobster or ghost.

Warning #3: Don’t Leave Lit Jack-‘O-Lanterns Unattended

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Morgan Swofford for LittleThings

Almost everyone will have a cool carved pumpkin on their porch for halloween but it’s important to keep them outside and away from your dog.

Curious pups love to explore new sights and smells and a candle-lit pumpkin might be very intriguing for your pet.A burnt snout can quickly ruin your Halloween fun.

Warning #4: Move Anxious Dogs Away From Trick-Or-Treaters

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If your pet gets a little hyperor anxious when the doorbell rings,move him to another room before the trick-or-treating begins.

However, avoid moving your pup to the backyard for the night, as Halloween mischief might leave him vulnerable if left all alone.

It’s best to keep him indoors, in a quiet room far from the sound of the doorbell and knocking. Provide treats and comforts to keep him calm.

Warning #5: Keep Fall Decorations Out Of Reach

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Morgan Swofford for LittleThings

Pumpkins, gourds, and colorful corn are common Halloween decorations and while they’re not toxic for animals, if consumed, theycan cause life-threatening gastrointestinal problems.

So make sure that they are awayfrom curious dog mouths by placing them in a high space or outside.

If you suspect your dog might have consumed a decorative object, take him to the vet immediately.

Warning #6: Don’t Let Pups Into Your Halloween Party

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Morgan Swofford for LittleThings

Even if you are only having a small festive get-together, The Humane Society suggests that you keep your dog in another room for the festivities.

Dogs may become overwhelmed by strangers in the house, especially ones in crazy costumes, so keeping them in another room ensures that they will stay calm.

Warning #7: Take A Walk Before Trick-Or-Treating Begins

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Morgan Swofford for LittleThings

It may be tempting to take your dog on a Halloween stroll, but all of the costumes, children, and decorations could overwhelm them.

If you know that your dog gets a little jumpy around new people, plan to walk them before the big night begins.

And, since many tiny trick-or-treaters usually call it a night pretty early, you can even take them out after for a less crowded Halloween walk.

Warning #8: Ensure They’re Tagged And Visible

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If you do plan on taking your dog out on Halloween, or anticipate your door being opened and closed often for trick-or-treaters,make sure your pet’s collar features all of his proper ID.

Also, make sure your dog is visible to pedestrians and cars during nighttime walks with an LED collar clip, or reflective vest.

While your precious pup should be tagged, chipped, and well-lit all year long, it’s especially important during holidays, when the hustle and bustle might make it easier forhimto escape.

Warning #9: Keep Them Close In Scary Or Overstimilating Situations

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Morgan Swofford for LittleThings

While you’re on your nighttime walk, it’s best to keep them very close. This will provide comfort from all the spooky sights, confusing costumes, andHalloween activity.

And as always, keep your dog on his leash at all times. No matter how well-disciplined, it only takes a second for a startled pooch to run off into the night.

Does your pup enjoy Halloween? How do you keep him or her safe on this spooky night?

Let us know in the comments below, and

Read more: http://www.littlethings.com/halloween-dog-safety-tips/