#Middlebury #Halloween
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: Please remind your readers that Halloween candy can be risky for dogs. My dachshund, Jake. got very ill once when my son left his bag of trick-or-treat candy on the floor where Jake could get to it. Fortunately, he recovered fully, but it could have been much worse. – Diane in Charleston
DEAR DIANE: You told them! Halloween is a fun time for families and pets, but when kids bring home lots of candy, or adults leave out a big bowl of fun-sized treats for trick-or-treaters, it’s more temptation than most pets can stand.
The trouble is that much of that candy is toxic to pets. Dogs should never eat chocolate, even in small amounts. Often they’ll consume the candy wrappers, too – not unexpected from a creature with no thumbs. Other candies might be OK, except they have lots of sugar, which can make a pet ill.
If you’re giving out candy, keep it in a spot that is out of reach of your pets, or keep a tight cover on the container so they can’t access it. When the kids get back from trick-or-treating, place their bags of candy up high and out of view of pets. Remind kids not to put their bags down on the floor or leave them where the dog can get at them.
Adults who are throwing Halloween parties should place their pets in a safe room or section of the house, away from revelers, snacks and candies. Pick up all treats and food before letting them back into the party area – high-fat snacks can be tough on a pet’s digestive system, and some foods – like onions, grapes and avocados – are toxic.
Send your tips, questions or comments to ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
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