CANDY

We are all aware that chocolate can be very dangerous to pets.  Just a small amount of chocolate can have deadly consequences.  Especially dark chocolate and baking chocolate.  But any chocolate, depending on the amount ingested, can be dangerous.  Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine which is a metabolite of caffeine.  Dogs metabolize theobromine much slower than humans making it more toxic to them.  Common symptoms of toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, panting, agitation, and seizures.   If your pet has ingested chocolate, call or take them to your veterinarian or nearest veterinary emergency hospital immediately.

Sugar free products that contain xylitol (candy, gums, peanut butters, medications....) are also potentially life threatening.  Ingestion of xylitol can very quickly lead to low blood sugar, seizures and even liver failure.  If your pet has ingested any product containing xylitol call or take them to your veterinarian or nearest emergency hospital immediately. 

Candy wrappers can pose a danger to your pet.  They can lead to vomiting, diarrhea and even intestinal blockage which can be an emergency situation. 

If you feel your pet has ingested chocolate, items containing xylitol or any other potentially toxic substance you can also call:

PET POISON HELPLINE 24/7 – 855-764-7661

ASPCA PET POISON CONTROL – 888-426-4435

There are fees associated with the poison control lines but well worth the cost when your beloved pet's life may be on the line.

COSTUMES

Dressing your pet in costumes for Halloween can be fun and entertaining for humans. Some pets love it.  But some do not and it can quickly become a stressful and dangerous situation.

If your pet starts to pant this can be a sign of stress, anxiety or overheating.  Yes pets can still overheat in October in Las Vegas.  A warm costume that is not breathable, covers the entire body or is made of heavy material can lead to overheating.

Refusing to move or moving in a stiff manner can be a sign of stress or discomfort from a costume that does not fit properly.  This can lead to rubbing on the skin causing sores or it can cause your pet to trip and/or fall leading to injury. If your pet is acting happy, playful, moving normally then they may not be bothered by the costume.  If they are acting strange, panting, stiff, shaking...it may be better to forego the costume and let them be comfortable.

Avoid costumes that have small parts than can be chewed off and swallowed or have any loose parts that can get caught and lead to strangulation or wounds.

DECORATIONS

Holiday decorations can pose many risks to pets.  Cats are notorious for chewing on small, dangling parts and string-like items.  Strings and string-like material are one of the most common foreign bodies in cats. They can be very deadly as they bind up the intestinal tract and can cut through it leading to deadly peritonitis. Dogs will put just about anything in their reach into their mouths that doesn't belong there.  Small toys made for children, pieces of decorations....Keep items out of their reach.  Who wants to be at the vet when they can be enjoying the holiday. 

FRONT DOOR

Some of our dogs like to greet  trick-or-treaters at the front door right along with us.  They want to participate in the fun.  When the door is being opened and closed several times it is easy for a small pet to slip out without being noticed.  Be sure they have all of their identification on even under the costume if they are wearing one.  I put a baby gate at the front door so the door can be opened and there is still a barrier to keep my dogs from running out. Screen doors do not count as you still have to fully open it.  Even the most trustworthy dog may become spooked by the costumes and the noise and they may bolt or even nip at someone that is in a costume that they are fearful of.  If a pet bites, it is the law that it must be reported to Animal Control and you do not want to have to deal with that. My cats get locked in their bedroom with all of their necessities until the festivities are over and all outside doors are closed.  This may be best for your dogs as well if they are nervous nellies.   Talk to your vet about medications for anxiety if needed.

TRICK-OR-TREATING WITH YOUR PET

I know many people want to take their dressed-up pet trick-or-treating with them.  Some pets do fine with this but many are stressed and very frightened and they try to get away.  The noise, the costumes, the fog machines and lights are too much for them and it is not a pleasant experience for them at all.  Many owners fail to recognize the signs of stress in these situations and it can turn tragic quickly.  Make sure your pet has and escape proof collar or harness on and is leashed at all times.   They should understand and respond to basic commands even in stressful situations.  Read your pet's body language and if they are showing signs of stress (shaking, panting, barking, pulling away...) it is best to get them home to their safe space.

VECC–Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care

8650 West Tropicana Ave.  #104

Las Vegas, NV 89147

702-262-7070

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Animal Emergency Center

3340 E. Patrick Lane

Las Vegas, NV 89120

702-457-8050

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VEG Summerlin

800 S. Rampart  #110

Las Vegas, NV 89145

702-790-8242

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VEG Henderson

470 N. Stephanie St. #120

Henderson NV 89014

702-529-4850

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