Keep dogs and cats safe during Halloween – the most dangerous holiday for pets. Halloween bring unwelcome thrills and chills – from oddly dressed little strangers ringing doorbells to unusual commotion in the neighborhood – all packed into one night. Pet owners can do little to control external surroundings but can care for their dog or cat’s safety by observing the following tips:

• Don’t leave your dog outside. Bring your dog inside where it’s safe, even if you have a fenced in yard.
• Keep your cat or dog restrained. It’s best to put him in a separate room, away from the front door, to limit his excitability, aggression, and chance of running outside.
• Reassure your pet. Your dog looks to you for leadership. If you keep your dog inside away from familiar family, visit often to reduce his stress..
• Check your pet’s ID tag. Make certain identification tags are secure on your pet’s collar and his microchip information up to date – just in case.
• Keep candy away from your cat or dog. Many candies, especially chocolate, are toxic to dogs. Make certain that sweets, including their wrappers, are kept well away from your dog.
• Protect pets from candles and pumpkins. Excited or agitated pets can easily knock over a lit candle or pumpkin. Be sure they’re located in a safe place, well away from your pet’s access.
• Think twice about dressing your dog in a costume. While some dogs enjoy being dressed up, many don’t. Experiment first to see if your dog likes being in a costume. If so, fine, he’ll likely enjoy himself. However, if he shows any resistence, don’t do it. Dogs feel enough stress around Halloween without having to endure the discomfort and peculiarity of wearing a strange costume as well.
• Have fun, but think of your pet’s safety! Finally, if you want your cat or dog to be involved in Halloween festivities, think about his safety as you would the safety of a small child. Your pet does not understand Halloween, so he needs you to provide protection.