By Karla Sullivan
While parents worry about chocolate candy filled with chemicals and other poison that could possibly be ingested by their children, pet owners need to worry too. Not necessarily for poisoned treats, but that bowl of good candy, acceptable for your little ghosts and goblins, is a severe threat to dogs and cats.
KC Theisen, director of pet care issues for The Humane Society of the US, warns that “the things that make Halloween a treat for people—noises, smells, trick-or-treaters at the door, and people in costumes—can overwhelm many pets.”
Chocolate, especially dark, can be dangerous. Over the past year, more than 1,100 calls to Pet Poison involved exposure to chocolate and 98 percent of them involved dogs. Many dogs are inherently attracted to the smell and taste of chocolate.
High fat candy can lead to pancreatic problems or even cause an obstruction that leads to choking. Candy wrappers and gum can cause life-threatening bowel obstructions, which may require surgery. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure even in small amounts.
Pumpkins are not toxic but can cause upset stomachs. Do not leave a candle lit pumpkin where a pet can easily knock it over with the risk of being burned.
If you are changing up your indoor autumn foliage with a new array of plants, investigate if a pet owner. More than 700 indoor/outdoor plants contain toxic substances that may harm dogs and cats.
Glow sticks and glow jewelry, according to Pet Poison, love to be chewed on by animals. Over the past year, Pet Poison Helpline received nearly 80 calls concerning pets that punctured glow sticks or glow jewelry, and 70 percent of the calls involved cats. While not usually life-threatening, their contents can cause pain and irritation in the mouth.
Make up and face paint can cause irritation and stomach issues
Don’t dress you pets unless the animal loves it, otherwise, the idea can cause aggravation and stress. Outfits that do not fit well can also lead to pet injury.
Strangers who come to the door in costume can make pets fearful and aggressive so make sure you have a quiet room for your pets to stay.
If you think your pet has ingested something poisonous, the veterinarians at Pet Poison Helpline suggest that you get help sooner than later. Contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline immediately at 1-800-213-6680.
According to ASPCA, more than $13 billion has been spent on veterinary care in 2012, so it may be wise to look into pet insurance. Even with a solid savings plan, you may not have enough to pay for the unexpected. Many will include routine preventive treatments such as vaccinations and even dental needs. You really need to read closely on what is not covered concerning pre-existing conditions but emergency care is costly and generally, a good pet policy will help pay a portion for an emergency visit and care. Talk to a qualified agent for more information.
