Halloween safety for your pet

(NC) Halloween isn’t just for kids. Pets are joining the festivities too, but it’s important to keep safety in mind while you celebrate. To make Halloween a real treat for pets and ensure they stay safe and happy, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Entertaining at home
Is your dog easily spooked? Even the friendliest pet may be alarmed by a ghost or witch at the front door. One of the best ways to help eliminate unwanted surprises is by establishing a safe, pets-only room in the house. This may also put trick-or-treaters who are uncomfortable around pets at ease.

“Before having pets join in the Halloween festivities, it’s important to assess whether your pet will be comfortable participating or if the festivities will cause undue stress,” says Dr. Robyn Jaynes ,a pet care expert at PetSmart. “If you have a young or senior pet, or one that is shy around others, it’s better to give them a quiet space away from all the activity or host a small family celebration where they’ll feel more comfortable.”

Pet-friendly treats
Chocolate is particularly tempting for pets, but it can make them seriously ill. Pet parents should keep all Halloween candy out of pets’ reach. Also, choose a treat that will help pets celebrate Halloween and includes health benefits, such as Greenies Dental Chews, which keep dogs’ and cats’ teeth clean and breath fresh.

Safety first
Is your pet ready to step out on the street? Reflective leashes, collars and ID tags with flashing lights are essential accessories for any pet Halloween costume. Pets should also have proper identification that includes pet parents’ contact information. Finally, make sure that an adult is holding the leash and that the pet is at ease around strangers and crowds.

More tips on pet safety as well as Halloween costumes and toys can be found at PetSmart or petsmart.com.