With all the gremlins, goblins and ghosts out on the prowl, the SPCA of Texas reminds pet owners to keep your pet’s safety in mind this Halloween.

The SPCA of Texas offers these helpful tips to ensure the whole family has a spooktacular Halloween this year:

Don’t give any candy to your pets! Even a small amount of chocolate can be fatal. Make sure that all Halloween treats are in a high place where pets cannot reach them. If pets consume chocolate or candy, contact your vet immediately.

Keep pets away from live flame decorations like candles and jack-o-lanterns, and restrict your pet’s access to hanging decorations such as streamers. Pets are curious and can become tangled or even choke if they chew on the decorations.

Pets may be terrified by tiny gremlins carrying big, orange, pumpkins full of sugar… wouldn’t you? If you have a protective dog who might feel threatened by strangers, keep him or her away from the door when trick-or-treaters arrive. Keep pets in a familiar place with lots of toys and soothing music to distract them from the doorbell.

Don’t let the family dog accompany the kids on their trick-or-treat outing. Although bringing your pooch may seem like a fun family outing, your pet would likely feel much safer and more comfortable in his or her own home away from all the Halloween festivities.

If you do take your pet out, make sure they are wearing collars and identification tags so you can be contacted if he or she does slip away during all the Halloween commotion. In addition to identification tags, ensure your pet is microchipped, too.

And of course, if the thought of more homeless, unwanted dogs and cats scares you like it does the SPCA of Texas, you can help us spay and neuter more pets by donating today.

Adopt a Pet this week. Go to http://www.spca.org or call 214-742-SPCA (7722).

@spcaoftexas

@collincountydfw

CollinCountyMagazine.com

 

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