Happy Howl-o-ween! Is your dog your boo? If so, the pet health experts at Trupanion have some tricks and treats to ensure your Halloween doesn’t involve a scary visit to the vet. As the leader in medical insurance for cats and dogs, Trupanion scanned its database of nearly 1 million pets and found that historically there is a noticeable increase in chocolate toxicity claims beginning now, through the end of the year. In some years, toxicity claims have spiked more than 70 per cent at Halloween.
Given that spooky fact, Trupanion staff veterinarian Dr. Sarah Nold, offers up 5 helpful treats to make sure your pets have a howlin’ Halloween this year.
1. Keep your pets away from Chocolate, Raisins, Xylitol
Chocolate contains a naturally occurring stimulant called theobromine, which is similar to caffeine. If enough theobromine is ingested it can be toxic to dogs and cats. Pet parents should also keep treats containing the sugar substitute xylitol away from their pets. Xylitol causes a very low blood sugar that can result in weakness, collapse and seizures.
2. Consider the Costume
Your pet may be too cute to spook, but costumes aren’t for every pet. If you do dress up the pup, make sure the costume is comfortable and doesn’t have any loose pieces they may try to swallow.
3. Beware the glow of the jack-o-lantern
Candles may bring an extra glow to that jack-o-lantern, but make sure they are not in reach of your dogs and cats. Flames can easily find wagging tails and curious noses.
4. Trick or treat without any fright
The added commotion and noise on Halloween can be stressful to family pets. All but the most social dogs and cats should be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treating hours.
5. Don’t get ghosted by your pet
Never leave your pet unsupervised, but in case your dog or cat does manage to dart outside make sure they have on a reflective collar with proper identification for the pet in case they get lost.
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