Happy Howl-O-Ween from the SPCA of Texas! With all of the gremlins, goblins and ghosts out on the prowl, the SPCA of Texas wants to remind pet owners to keep their pet’s safety in mind this Halloween. Here are some helpful tips to ensure the whole family has a spooktacular Halloween this year:

• Don’t give any candy to your pets! All forms of chocolate can be dangerous, even lethal, for dogs and cats. Other candies may contain the artificial sweetener xylitol that can also be poisonous to pets. Make sure that all Halloween treats are in a high place and dispose of any leftover candies or wrappers where your pet cannot reach them. If pets consume chocolate or candy, contact your vet immediately.
• Keep pets away from live flame decorations like candles and jack-o-lanterns, and restrict your pet’s access to hanging decorations such as streamers. Your pet could possibly receive an electrical shock if they chew on electrical cords. If your pet chews on cords, make sure you keep them out of your pets’ reach. Pets are curious and can become tangled or even choke if they chew on the decorations.
• Keep your pets away from the door when trick-or-treaters arrive so that he or she doesn’t get scared or dart outside. Keep pets in a familiar place with lots of toys and familiar sounds to distract them from the doorbell.
• Don’t let the family dog accompany the kids on their trick-or-treat outing. Although bringing your pooch may seem like a fun family outing, your pet would likely feel much safer and more comfortable in his or her own home away from all the Halloween festivities.
• Be careful with costumes. For some pets, wearing a costume can be uncomfortable and stressful. If you dress up your pet for Halloween, make sure the costume does not limit his or her movement, vision, breathing or ability to bark or meow. Monitor your pet for signs of discomfort, and if he or she seems distressed, remove the costume and opt for a festive collar or bandanna instead.
• Make sure your pet is wearing a collar and identification tags, so you can be contacted if he or she does slip away during all of the Halloween commotion. In addition to identification tags, ensure your pet is microchipped.

And of course, if the thought of more homeless, unwanted dogs and cats scares you like it does the SPCA of Texas, always remember the importance of spaying and neutering your pets.