Halloween: Fun or terror for pets?

Halloween is fun and festive for people – but for pets, it can be dangerous. Here are tips to ensure your pet has a happy and safe Halloween:

• Don’t leave your pet outside unattended on Halloween (or on the days preceding or following). Halloween pranks against pets can be vicious – black cats are particularly at risk.
• Halloween treats are for people, not pets. Candy wrappers and lollipop sticks can be hazardous if swallowed and chocolate can be deadly for some pets, especially dogs.
• Keep pumpkins away from curious noses and paws. Pets may knock over a lit pumpkin and cause a fire.
• Despite the fun it is for people, many pets don’t enjoy getting dressed up. If you dress your pet, be sure the costume doesn’t interfere with the ability to breathe, see, hear, move or bark.
• Consider keeping your pet in a separate room, away from the door, when trick-or-treaters arrive. Strange people in even stranger clothes can frighten some pets.
• When you answer the door for visitors, make sure that your pet doesn’t suddenly head outdoors. If your pet does escape, make sure it’s wearing proper identification. Pets with identification are much more likely to be returned to their owners.
  

Anti-Freeze Poisoning

Anti-freeze is essential for cars in Western New York. But it's dangerous for your dog or cat. So dangerous that only one teaspoonful can kill an average cat and five tablespoonsful can kill a 30-poung dog.

Anti-freeze smells and tastes great to small animals. Don't risk the life and health of your pet. Don't leave pans of anti-freeze in the garage or let if flow into the street where pets can get to it. Check your radiator, hoses, and clamps periodically for leaks. Look at your driveway or garage floor regularly. You'll likely recognize anti-freeze by the yellow-greenish color.

Remember, animals can't read the warning labels on anti-freeze containers.