WASHINGTON – Unless you have a werewolf in the family, it is
not wise to include your canine, cat or any pet in Halloween
festivities. Ghosts, ghouls and goblins are great fun for
people, but The HSUS wants to remind pet owners that Halloween
can be a stressful, even dangerous, holiday for pets.
“Dogs and cats rely on daily routine,” said Nancy Peterson,
companion animals issues specialist for The HSUS. “When that
routine is disrupted by lots of noise and commotion, like
trick-or-treaters ringing the doorbell and people in strange
costumes, pets can become frightened or agitated. It’s best to
keep pets at a safe distance from the festivities.”
To help people keep pets safe at Halloween, The HSUS
recommends taking these precautions:
• Keep pets safely inside, away from trick-or-treaters and
other Halloween activities.
• Cats, especially black ones, may be the target of pranksters.
Keep cats safely indoors. Go to www.safecats.org for more
information.
• Be sure all pets are wearing collars with ID tags, as
frequently opened doors provide a perfect opportunity for
escape.
• Keep candy out of your pet’s reach. Candy can be harmful to
pets and chocolate is toxic to cats, dogs, and ferrets.
• Keep pets away from decorations. Candle flames can quickly
singe, burn or set fire to a pet’s fur. Pets can become tangled
in hanging decorations like streamers and can choke on some
decorations if they chew on them.
• Resist the urge to put your furry friend in costume. Most
pets dislike the confinement of costumes and masks, and flowing
capes can cause injuries if pets get caught on something.
• Don’t bring the family dog along for trick-or-treating. Dogs
may become difficult to handle during the noise and confusion
of the festivities. A lost dog or dog bite will quickly end
your Halloween fun.
“Keep your pet safe in an enclosed area with a toy and
soothing music,” adds Peterson. “Resist the urge to include
your pet in your Halloween activities, and everyone can enjoy
the holiday.”
Also, consider sending a free Halloween e-greeting card to
friends and family. The HSUS has two card designs this year.
Cards will be available soon on the web.
The HSUS is the nation’s largest animal protection
organization with more than seven million members and
constituents. The HSUS is a mainstream voice for animals, with
active programs in companion animals, wildlife and habitat
protection, animals in research and farm animals and
sustainable agriculture. For nearly 50 years, The HSUS has
protected all animals through legislation, litigation,
investigation, education, advocacy and fieldwork. The HSUS is
headquartered in Washington, DC and has 10 regional offices.
