As Halloween approaches, we are urging pet owners to keep their cats and dogs safely indoors after dark.
While fireworks and dressing up can be enjoyable for people, pets can become seriously distressed and prone to bolting off in fear. For this reason, we are appealing to dog owners not to take their pets trick or treating.
Corina Fitzsimons, Communications Executive at The Irish Blue Cross explained: “The noise and flashing lights from fireworks can be terrifying for pets, who may try and escape to get away from them. So, please ensure your pet’s microchip details are up to date with your current phone number and home address. If you have a dog, check their ID tag is still attached to their collar or harness.
If opening your front door to trick or treaters, we recommend having your pet safely behind at least one closed door. You might even consider disabling your doorbell to prevent further stress to your pet and when Halloween is over, using sound desensitisation to help your pet cope with fireworks next year.”
We are also reminding owners of the potential toxicity of chocolate and sweets and to keep them well out of reach of inquisitive pets.
Dr Rocio Bayod Crespo, Head of Veterinary Services at The Irish Blue Cross continued: “Most people are aware that chocolate is toxic for cats and dogs, but some sugar-free sweet treats also contain xylitol which is extremely dangerous, even in small doses. If you think your pet has eaten anything they shouldn’t, please seek immediate veterinary advice.
While, cooked, plain pumpkin is safe for dogs in moderation, raw pumpkin can cause blockages so please supervise your dogs around carved pumpkins. If you have pets, it’s best not to add candles to pumpkins anywhere they could potentially reach.”
We also recommends feeding and walking dogs before dark and keeping them on a lead, even for toilet breaks in your garden, in case they get spooked and escape.
For more information about how to keep your pet safe this Halloween, visit BlueCross.ie/Halloween