Pet expert warns against the ‘healthy Halloween treat’ can prove deadly to dogs
A PET expert has revealed that a seemingly safe Halloween treat could prove deadly to pets.
With spooky season now in full swing, many of us will be avidly decorating our homes from head to toe with spiderwebs, skeletons and pumpkins, ahead of Halloween parties, spooky movie nights and the arrival of trick or treaters.
Of course, it is common knowledge that dogs cannot eat chocolate so pet owners will be keeping any Halloween candy away from their pooches.
However, pet professional Andrew Leal, CEO of pet insurance company Waggel revealed there is another tasty seasonal treat that pets should be kept away from.
Carving pumpkins into spooky shapes and then baking the insides into pies is a classic Halloween activity, but did you know that the healthy vegetable can actually be a threat to pets?
Andrew said: “Domestic dogs can consume pumpkin in certain forms – ideally skinned and chopped, baked, or turned into puree.
“Pumpkin is actually a good source of fibre and trace elements, and it’s been found to aid doggy digestion.
“However, some parts of pumpkins are unsafe for our four-legged legends to chow-down on.”
Pumpkin skin can be a choking hazard for small dogs and puppies and can block the stomach and intestines.
Andrew explained: “Pumpkin stems and leaves are covered in tiny, prickly hairs.
“These can harm dogs – particularly puppies – because they can aggravate the mouth during mastication, the throat on the way down, and the stomach once swallowed.”
If you think there is a chance your dog may try to eat the pumpkins you carve this Halloween, you should get rid of the leaves and stems.
Or, if you want to leave the pumpkin completely intact, make sure they are out of reach of your pets.
Andrew added that anything that includes sugar, spices and artificial sweeteners is a no-no for pets.
He revealed that these treats can lead to gastrointestinal distress, pancreatitis, or worse.
Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions and garlic should also be kept away from pets too.
How to keep your pet safe around Halloween
1. Secure your treats
Store all Halloween goodies in high cabinets or sealed containers well out of your pet’s reach.
2. Create a safe space
Set up a quiet room for your pet away from the excitement and potential temptations.
3. Educate guests
Inform visitors, especially children, not to feed your pet any treats.
4. Use pet-safe decorations
Opt for pet-friendly decorations and keep small items that could be swallowed out of reach.
5. Keep an eye on the door
Ensure your pet doesn’t slip out when you’re greeting trick-or-treaters.
6. Prepare pet-safe treats in advance
Carrot sticks or small pieces of cooked, unseasoned pumpkin can be great alternatives so your furry friend can join in the festivities without any risk.
“I suggest keeping pets away from all potentially harmful foods during Halloween,” says Andrew. “Halloween is for kids – not canines.
“If your dog ingests unprepared pumpkin or any of the other goodies mentioned above – they may vomit!
“If they don’t, keep an eye on them afterwards and be prepared for a possible trip to the vet.”
Foods you can feed your dog
Barbara Hanly, doggie wellness expert and founder of Soopa – healthy, plant-based dog treats – revealed what human food your pup can eat.
- Pumpkin: Pumpkin is a great source of fibre, helping with digestion and firming up stools. It’s also rich in vitamins A, C, and E, giving your dog a nutrient boost while keeping their tummy happy.
- Carrots: Low in calories but high in beta-carotene and fibre, carrots are fantastic for dental health (they’re nature’s toothbrush) and they support your dog’s vision and immune system! Either raw or cooked, carrots can be given daily as a crunchy snack or added to meals.
- Ginger: Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help soothe your dog’s stomach or nausea. Best to give it mixed into meals or treats, especially if your dog has an upset stomach or arthritis.
- Blueberries: These little powerhouses are loaded with antioxidants, which help fight off harmful free radicals in your dog’s body and support brain function. Plus, they make for a tasty, bite-sized snack!
- Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are full of dietary fibre and vitamins B6, C, and beta-carotene. They’re great for digestive health and provide a steady source of energy. Serve cooked (steamed, baked, or mashed), as a treat or mixed into meals, a couple of times a week.