SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) — As Halloween approaches, the San Angelo Animal Shelter is reminding pet owners to prioritize their furry friends' safety during the festivities. Morgan Chegwidden emphasizes the importance of preventing pets from bolting, especially during the excitement of trick-or-treating.

"Our main concern is keeping pets secure," Chegwidden explains.

When the door opens frequently and there's a flurry of activity outside, even a normally calm dog can become stressed and anxious. The costumes, noise and constant ringing of doorbells can trigger a reaction.

To create a calming environment for pets, Chegwidden suggests designating a quiet space, such as a cozy bedroom with some background noise. For outdoor animals, ensure fencing is secure to prevent escapes and double-check that all pet identification is up to date.

"It’s essential to make sure your dog has all its IDs, collar, and microchip information current," Chegwidden advises. "If you haven't microchipped your pet yet, you can easily do so through our facility or visit 24petconnect to update your details if you've moved or changed your phone number."

Pet owners should also be vigilant about potential hazards during Halloween. Common treats like chocolate, sugar-free candy, glow sticks and costume batteries can be toxic to pets.

Costume safety is another key consideration.

"If your dog or cat is generally calm, it's still wise to introduce any costume gradually — ideally a few days before the event — to see how they react," Chegwidden suggests. "Always supervise your pet while they're in costume, as accessories can pose choking hazards."

With these precautions, pet owners can ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for everyone.

News Source : https://www.conchovalleyhomepage.com/news/local-news/halloween-trick-or-treating-pet-safety/