Trick-or-treat without a vet visit: Halloween safety tips for pets

Halloween is a treat for people and a minefield for pets. Here is what the ASPCA and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration say to watch for on Oct. 31.

The candy problem

Chocolate is the classic danger. The FDA explains that cocoa contains theobromine and caffeine, stimulants that dogs process far more slowly than people. Darker and baking chocolate carry the most, and small dogs can get sick from less. Signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, a racing heart, restlessness or seizures can show up within a few hours.

Sugar-free sweets can be worse. The FDA warns that xylitol, a common sugar substitute, can trigger a dangerous drop in a dog's blood sugar, sometimes within an hour. It turns up in gum, mints, some candy and baked goods, and certain nut butters.

A pet-safe Halloween checklist

• Store the candy bowl and kids' hauls out of reach; the ASPCA notes dogs can sniff out hidden stashes.
• Costume your pet only if it seems comfortable, and make sure the outfit doesn't limit movement, sight or breathing. Remove small or dangling pieces that could be chewed.
• Keep lit jack-o'-lanterns and electrical cords away from curious paws and tails.
• During peak trick-or-treating, put all but the most social pets in a quiet room away from the door.
• Make sure pets wear ID, and use a reflective collar and secure leash on evening walks.

If something goes wrong

If you think your pet ate something toxic, call your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center can be reached at (888) 426-4435.