FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 25, 2011

Halloween can be a festive and fun time of year for children and families, but for pets, it can be stressful and even dangerous. The Seattle Humane Society provides these tips to help keep your furry family members safe this season:

• KEEP PET COSTUMES SAFE
Avoid costumes that impair your pet’s vision, hearing, or mobility and costumes that are too tight or too loose. The elastic in costumes can restrict circulation, loose-fitting costumes can become tangled and small, dangling pieces can create a choking hazard. Make sure that your pet has as much fun playing dress up as you do. A decorative collar is always a great alternative!

• KEEP YOUR PET INSIDE
Keep your companion animals in a room away from the front door when trick-or-treaters are visiting. It is too easy for them to be frightened by the goblins and slip out the door.

• UPDATE IDENTIFICATION
This is the perfect time to make sure your pet is microchipped and wearing up-to-date identification. Most veterinarians and shelters offer microchipping. If your pet is already microchipped, be sure the company has your current address and phone numbers.

• FEED TREATS MADE FOR PETS
Chocolate and other seemingly harmless ingredients can be poisonous to dogs and cats, so keep them out of reach. Dispose of the wrappers where pets can’t get them to avoid choking and explain to your children why Fluffy can’t share their treats.

• DECORATE WITH CAUTION 
Tail wagging is a good thing – unless it’s done around a lit candle! Keep candles and lit jack-o-lanterns at an appropriate height where your pets can’t knock them over, or get burned.

By following these helpful tips, Halloween can be a fun and safe holiday for pets and people alike.