Halloween Pet Safety

For many of us getting ready to celebrate Halloween, there is a strong temptation to include our pets in the festivities. Some people want to take their pets with them as they go trick-or-treating, or get a costume for their pets. The Humane Society of the United States warns us against it, with the following article on Halloween Pet Safety.

Since pets enjoy a regular routine, Halloween and other holidays can be a particularly stressful time. Strangers constantly ringing the doorbell and yelling "trick-or-treat!" is probably not your cat's idea of a good day.

The HSUS has a Halloween recommendation - that you keep your cat behind closed doors with a toy and some soothing music, and away from trick-or-treaters. This will also help to prevent your cat from slipping out an open front door when she shouldn't as well.

I've noticed a lot of interest in a halloween costume for pets. According to the HSUS, this is a bad idea. Most animals, especially cats, don't like being confined in clothing. The closest many cats will usually come to tolerating being dressed up is when they are wrapped up in a blanket, and even then, it usually has to be their idea, not yours.

Please follow the HSUS recommendations for Halloween pet safety. Even seemingly innocent holiday decorations can lead to tragedy. Read this article only if you are ready to read a sad account of a real Halloween horror.

I hope you and your pet have a safe and happy Halloween!