10/31/2026
🎃🐾 Happy Howl-o-ween from Embleton Veterinary Hospital! 🐾👻
Halloween is full of tricks, treats, and spooky surprises, but some of the holiday fun can pose serious risks to our furry family members!
Before the ghosts and goblins arrive, here are some important tips to keep your pets safe. 🧡🖤
🍫 Chocolate & Candy Toxicity
Chocolate, especially dark and baking chocolate, contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs and cats. Sugar-free candies and gum may contain xylitol (birch sugar), which can cause life-threatening hypoglycemia and liver damage in dogs.
🍇 Raisins & Grapes
Even small amounts can cause acute kidney injury in dogs. Keep those little boxes of Halloween raisins out of reach!
🍬 Candy Wrappers
Foil, plastic wrappers, and candy bags can cause choking or gastrointestinal obstruction if swallowed.
🎃 Pumpkins & Decorations
Plain, cooked pumpkin is generally safe in moderation, but mouldy pumpkins can contain dangerous toxins. Keep pets away from candles, electrical cords, glow sticks, and decorations that could be chewed or swallowed.
👻 Costume Safety
Not every pet enjoys dressing up! Avoid costumes that restrict breathing, movement, vision, or hearing. Watch for signs of fear, anxiety, and stress, and never force a costume on an uncomfortable pet.
🚪 Trick-or-Treater Alert!
Frequent doorbell ringing, unfamiliar costumes, and excited visitors can be overwhelming. Consider a quiet, secure room away from the front door to prevent stress and accidental escapes.
🐈⬛ Keep Cats Indoors
Halloween can be particularly stressful for outdoor cats. Keep cats safely indoors, especially during busy trick-or-treating hours.
🚨 Suspect Your Pet Ate Something Toxic?
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear! Some toxins can cause serious internal damage before your pet shows signs of illness.
Contact us or an emergency veterinary hospital immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a veterinary professional.
☎️ 24/7 Animal Poison Control Resources:
🐾 ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: 1-888-426-4435
🐾 Pet Poison Helpline: 1-855-764-7661
Both services are available 24/7 and may charge consultation fees. Don’t forget to save your Case number!
🧡 A little prevention goes a long way toward keeping Halloween safe, fun, and fright-free for our four-legged family members!
From all of us at Embleton Veterinary Hospital, have a safe and spooktacular Halloween! 🎃🐕🐈⬛