The day after Halloween is the day we recover from the
candy high and get ready to clean up the mess from the various tricks
that seem to always come at this time of year. But the real horror is
seen by veterinarians and shelters all over this country when they are
presented with the animals who were the victims of the real Halloween
monsters. These are the animals that sustain injuries from sadistic
people who think it's fun to torture innocent cats and dogs, some who
even do so in some misguided Halloween rituals.
There is only one person that can protect these animals,
and that's you, the caretakers of companion animals. Following are some
tips to keep your pets safe on Halloween:
* Keep pets safely inside. Do not leave them unattended
in the yard, even in a fenced yard. Black cats are especially in danger,
but no animal is completely safe on Halloween except the ones whose
owners care enough about them to keep them inside. Many humane groups
won't place black cats for adoption at this time of year.
* Keep pets away from trick-or-treaters who might
frighten or agitate the animal. A frightened animal is more likely to
bite even the littlest ghosts and goblins. Pets who are secluded in a
quiet room are safe from real monsters, and costumed kids are safer too.
Also pets secluded in a quiet room are less likely to dart out an open
doorway to the outside world.
* Don't be tempted to dress up your dog and send him
trick-or-treating with the children.
* Keep all candy away from pets. Chocolate is toxic to
animals and can be fatal.
* Restrict pet's access to candles and Jack O' Lanterns
as not only are the dangerous for the pet, but are also a fire hazard if
knocked over. Be sure all holiday decorations are kept out of reach of
pets.
* Remind friends, neighbors, and relatives of the
dangers for unattended pets on Halloween, and keep the phone number of
your veterinarian handy for any emergencies.
Make this Halloween a safe one for people and animals
alike!
Go on to Halloween Party Treats ~ Cruelty-free!
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