News Releases

(KNOXVILLE, Tenn.) - Halloween can be a ghastly experience for pets if precautions aren't taken.

The University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine advises pet owners to be especially vigilant during this time. Dr. Dianne Mawby, an emergency clinician at the college says the commotion around this time can be tricky for animals. "Pets should be kept indoors or secure on Halloween, not only for their safety but also for the safety of trick or treaters in costume who might scare a pet. If a pet is normally apprehensive about change or other people, it could be even more nervous during this time and bite unexpectedly or run away." Mawby says pets should always be properly identified with a collar and tags. Halloween pranks committed against pets can be vicious, and black cats are particularly at risk.

Halloween treats and other objects can also be harmful to your pet:

• Chocolate can be toxic to dogs
• Small items on costumes can cause obstruction of your pets gastrointestinal tract if consumed
• Glow sticks can be toxic if chewed
• Candy wrappers and lollipop sticks can cause choking and obstruction
• Candy consumption can lead to stomach aches, vomiting, diarrhea or a more severe condition, pancreatitis
• Grapes and raisins can cause kidney damage
• Pumpkins with candles should be kept out of reach to prevent accidental burns or fires.

And while dressing a pet in costume can be fun, be cautious of using any constricting garments, strings, masks, or small objects or paints that a pet may ingest.

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Contact: Sandra Harbison, 865-974-7377 or 865-660-0255, sharbiso@utk.edu