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Vet Warns To Take Care Of Your Pet On Halloween

By Joel Hardy

10/30/2013

(KAIR)--Halloween is a time for both kids and adults to dress up, have a fair bit of candy, and have a little fun. However, it is important to remember that humans are not the only ones that can be scared on this holiday.

Dr. Charles Van Petten, a veterinarian with the Atchison Animal clinic says that pet owners need to be aware of the fact that costumed kids re entering the home can scare a pet enough to where they may bite to protect themselves.

Some owners may want to dress up their pets as well as themselves. Van Petten says that this is okay, but certain precautions should be taken. Any color used to dye the fur of the animal should be food based, and non toxic. The reason for this is that sometimes, the animal will become uncomfortable and start to bite themselves. Toxic chemicals can also cause some pretty serious skin irritation as well.

Van Petten also warns owners to be careful about what they feed their pets. Dark chocolate especially is harmful to animals and can cause kidney problems. While he does not recommend milk chocolate, Van Petten does say dogs can eat a small amount of it and be alright.

Van Petten goes on to say that some costumes put on pets may flutter around and scare them, which could cause some harm to the animal. He also suggests that pets be released into the home separate from any costumed kids, to give them time to adjust to their surroundings.

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