Michigan warns pet owners about Halloween hazards
“From keeping them away from the candy bowl to ensuring they have up-to-date identification, there are many precautions owners can take to keep their animals safe this Halloween,” State Veterinarian Nora Wineland said.
As Halloween festivities approach, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding pet owners to prioritize their animals’ safety and well-being during the holiday.
According to State Veterinarian Nora Wineland, simple precautions can go a long way in preventing Halloween-related scares and stress for animals. “From keeping them away from the candy bowl to ensuring they have up-to-date identification, there are many precautions owners can take to keep their animals safe this Halloween,” Wineland said.
MDARD advises pet owners to keep Halloween candy away from animals, as ingredients like chocolate, raisins, and xylitol can be toxic. The department also stresses the importance of ensuring pets have proper identification, such as tags or microchips with current contact information, in case they escape amidst the Halloween hustle and bustle.
Providing a quiet space for pets to retreat from the excitement of trick-or-treaters is also recommended. This space should be equipped with food, water, and litter boxes to allow pets to decompress if needed.
Other safety tips include keeping Halloween decorations, wires, and candles out of reach, as these can pose injury risks. Pet owners are also urged to be cautious when selecting costumes for their animals, ensuring they fit comfortably, don’t obstruct movement or vision, and don’t contain small pieces that could be chewed off and swallowed.
MDARD encourages pet owners to consult their veterinarians with any questions or concerns about their animals’ health and safety throughout the Halloween season.
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