A Halloween Guide to Pet-Safe Treats

Unsafe pet treats: What to avoid

Here are some treats and ingredients that should be kept out of your pet’s reach:

• Chocolate — Although tasty, chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to pets. Chocolate toxicity may cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, elevated body temperature, heart problems, or death.
• Xylitol — This sugar substitute is commonly found in sugar-free candy, gum, and baked goods. In pets, xylitol causes a rapid drop in blood sugar that can lead to seizures, coma, liver failure, or death.
• Raisins and grapes — Grapes and raisins contain tartaric acid, which can cause kidney failure in dogs.
• Wrapped candies — Although not all candy is toxic, wrappers can still pose a threat. Dogs who swallow large amounts of foil or plastic as they gobble down a pile of candy can suffer intestinal blockages.

Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center if your pet consumes unsafe Halloween treats.

Pet-safe treats: What to look for

Fortunately, plenty of pet-safe treats are available in place of Halloween candy. When choosing store-bought treats or investigating homemade recipes, look for safe and healthy ingredients that won’t upset your pet’s stomach. If you want to introduce a new treat to your pet, always do so slowly.

Some popular pet-safe ingredients include:

• Xylitol-free peanut butter
• Pumpkin
• Oats
• Chickpeas
• Carrots
• Sweet potatoes
• Apples, with the core and seeds removed
• Blueberries
• Tuna
• Chicken

When in doubt about a food or ingredient’s safety, contact your veterinarian.

Pet-safe treat alternatives

Treats aren’t the only way to include your pet in the Halloween fun. Here are some ideas for fun, non-food holiday “treats”:

• New toys — A festive, Halloween-themed squeaky toy, stuffie, or tough chew can make your pet’s day. Always supervise playtime with new toys and remove damaged pieces to prevent swallowing.
• Costumes — Outgoing pets who enjoy attention can participate by wearing a fun Halloween outfit. Ensure you choose a costume that fits well, doesn’t restrict movement, vision, or breathing, and has no small pieces your pet could chew and swallow.
• Interactive games — Extra time playing your pet’s favorite games or with a fun puzzle toy can make them feel special and included.

Do-it-yourself pet-safe treats

Making your own pet-safe Halloween treats can be fun and rewarding, and helpful for pets with food allergies or a sensitive stomach, as you can control the recipe and the ingredients. Here is a simple recipe for homemade dog biscuits:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup canned, unsweetened, plain pumpkin
• 1/4 cup xylitol-free peanut butter
• 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Combine pumpkin, peanut butter, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl.
3. Gradually add flour and mix to form dough.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to ¼-inch thickness.
5. Create shapes with Halloween-shaped cookie cutters.
6. Place biscuits on a lined cookie sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes.

You can find endless recipes online that use alternative flour or flavors if you prefer to avoid wheat or other specific ingredients. The simpler the recipe, the more likely your pet can easily digest the treats.

If your pet gets into off-limits treats, or if you want additional information on keeping your pet safe this Halloween, contact your local AAHA-certified veterinary hospital.