The spookiest night of the year!

BOO! ... Did that startle you? Probably not, but if you’re the furry member of the family with dozens of kids laughing and milling about at your front door on All Hallows Eve, strange noises could have you more than a little ‘spooked.’

Some things are just going to be scary for them but there are ways to limit the stress for the timid, and avoid dangerous situations for the brave. By expecting the unexpected and using some basic precautions, you can make Halloween night as safe and comfortable as possible for them.

With opening doors and noisy strangers in all types of eerie apparel descending on them, some will panic and make a break for it. Having current identification on a flat collar (not a choker chain) with tags or a microchip implanted will greatly increase their chance of making it home safely. It will also allow the animal shelter to quickly contact you if they end up there.

Another solution is to give them some quiet time in a secure room away from scary trick-or-treaters.  It might be a temptation to some, dressing them up in costume to be with you when answering the door or while having guests over. But it can turn a night of fun into a nightmare. Your social “pet” can feel so threatened by it all or be moved to protect you, that a bite will put an end to the festivities.

Putting animals in costumes has never been one of my favorite things; most look uncomfortable or unhappy. However, statistics show that more than 50% of guardians choose a costume for their “pet” on Halloween. If you choose to dress them up, then make sure that it doesn’t expose them to hazards.

Comfort is the number one consideration: make sure the costume allows them to move freely with no mask that covers their eyes and ears, doesn’t have parts they can chew and choke on, or fastenings that interfere with their breathing. Know the signs of discomfort and take off the costume immediately. Flattened ears, rolling eyes or looking backwards for an escape route, a tucked tail or hunching over are sure signs they are not happy campers.

Keep all treats in high, preferably locked or securely fastened, places away from determined and resourceful critters. The lure of sweets seems universal and foods like chocolate, gum, raisins or treats containing xylitol as a sweetener can be seriously toxic and sometimes deadly. It’s very important that family youngsters understand why sharing treats with their fur-friends is not a good idea.

As All Hallows Night approaches, it’s important to bring your cat (especially black or white ones) and other vulnerable animals inside to a secure place and out of harm’s way. Most Halloween revelers would never hurt them but there are some who find tormenting animals amusing. To avoid the bad guys grabbing them for ritual purposes, safeguard your animals inside or confined away from public access for several days before and after Halloween. 

Remember that this special night belongs to a number of critters, not just humans. Nocturnal wild creatures such as raccoons, opossums, skunks, and foxes wake up and venture out for food, and Halloween is just another night to them. If you encounter a wildling, keep a safe distance between you. If you have your dog with you, make sure that she is on leash at all times. Respect the night time regulars and their space. Enjoy the special gift you’ve received and remember it’s their world too.

If you do suspect your animal friend has ingested something toxic, please call your veterinarian ASAP or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. There is a fee.

REMEMBER: if your dog or cat runs away or disappears for any reason, don't wait! Contact your local animal shelter immediately and ask for advice in finding your friend. Waiting and hoping they will “show up” could cost them their lives.

Article by Nancy Lyon, President, Ohlone Humane Society