Halloween can be stressful for dogs, as their natural instinct is to protect the home and alert when a stranger is arriving. It can be tricky to make sure they don’t get into the wrong snacks. Dog owners love to give their furry friends the occasional treat, but which treats are safe for pets? The ASPCA recommends these commonsense precautions to keep pets safe and healthy.
Keep pups out of the candy bowl for trick-or-treaters. Chocolate in all forms can be dangerous for cats and dogs. Sugar-free candies containing the sugar substitute xylitol can be deadly for pets.
Honey is an ok treat for dogs. It’s not toxic to them and is lower on sugar content. It’s packed with essential vitamins. Just be sure to feed them honey in small doses.
Peanut Butter is also an ok treat for dogs. Peanut butter can be an excellent source of protein. It also has heart healthy vitamins. However, it’s best to get a raw, unsalted peanut butter. Regular peanut butter can have xylitol in it, making it potentially toxic to dogs.
Dogs can also eat popcorn. Unsalted, unbuttered, and air-popped works the best. Be sure that the kernels pop all the way before giving it to dogs, as it can be a choking hazard if not. Moderation is key with popcorn.
The above-mentioned treats, in moderation, are ok for dogs to have. Be sure that they are unsalted and unsweetened and that they are just a small part of the dog’s overall diet.
If you suspect a pet has ingested something toxic, please call a veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.
Learn more:
Halloween Safety Tips. [Internet] Available from: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/halloween-safety-tips
Halloween Safety Tips for Pets. [Internet] Available from: https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/halloween-safety-tips-pets
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