Halloween is right around the corner! This candy-clad holiday can be a frightening time for your animals and without taking the proper precautions, it could turn into a real nightmare! Check out these tips to keep your furry friends safe this Halloween.

1. Candy: Trick-or-treat is for humans, not pets. Keep all candy far from your animals' reach and educate any children in the home about the dangers of feeding candy to animals. Symptoms of poisoning from chocolate include vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and seizures. If you suspect your animal got into the candy bowl, contact your veterinarian immediately.
2. Costumes: Do not force your pet to wear a costume unless you are certain they are comfortable. What may seem cute to you could be overwhelming to your pet. Make sure that costumes aren’t blocking their sight, breathing, or constricting movement in any way. Keep an eye out for any loose bits on the costume that could be irritating or a potential choking hazard such as buttons or tassels.
3. Keep your pets safe indoors: Do not leave your pets in the yard on Halloween! Pranksters have been known to tease animals which may end up in an injury or even death. Before the festivities start, put your animals in a room away from the excitement. Dogs can be territorial, and having strangers entering the yard or home can induce anxiety. Putting your pets in a secure room will help prevent the possibility of pets escaping during the night.
4. Black cats: Black cats are especially at risk of injury and abuse during Halloween. We recommend as a safety precaution to make sure your black cats are brought indoors several days before and after Halloween.
5. Candles, Wires, and Cords: Keep your animals away from any candles as they can easily get burned or knock them over and start a fire. Wires and electrical cords can also be quite hazardous. If your pet chews on wires they could get a life-threatening electrical shock!
6. ID Tags: Make sure that all your pets are wearing current ID tags and have up-to-date information on their microchip (if chipped). Current identification is one of the best ways to ensure a lost animal finds its way back home to you! Both ID tags and microchipping are available at the HSVC. ID tags are FREE now until Halloween and microchipping is $25 including registration. Please call the shelter at 805-646-6505 ahead of time if you are in need of this service.