pets
5 Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe This Halloween
Halloween thrills can turn into chills for your pets. From noisy trick-or-treaters to dangerous sweets, the holiday is full of hidden hazards. Learn how to keep your furry friends safe and stress-free this spooky season with expert tips from VCA Animal Hospitals.
Last Updated on October 3, 2025 by Daily News Staff
(Family Features) Costumes and candy make Halloween a highly anticipated event for children and adults alike, but the holiday can be particularly spooky for pets. Some of the same things that bring humans joy on All Hallows Eve can lead to poisoning, stress or anxiety, which may cause four-legged family members to run away or react aggressively.
To help ensure Halloween is fun for every member of the family, take note of these safety tips
from the experts at VCA Animal Hospitals, which has more than 1,000 locations across North America that cared for more than 4.5 million pets last year. Talk to your veterinarian if you need assistance dealing with pet anxiety.
Create a safe space for your pet at home. If your neighborhood is particularly busy on Halloween and the sidewalks are overflowing with exuberant trick-or-treaters, it may be best to leave your pet at home. Pets can be thrown off by extra people on the street or at the door in frightening costumes, which could lead to uncommon reactions such as growling or biting if they feel threatened. Even if your pets are mellow and enjoy greeting guests, consider keeping them inside as you sit by yourself near the door or outside to greet trick-or-treaters as they knock or ring the doorbell. Otherwise, consider keeping your pet in a room away from the frenzy with a TV, radio or white noise machine to dull the sounds.
Be cautious when taking your pet trick-or-treating. If you do decide to venture out with your pet, make sure he or she is always close to you on a secure leash (avoid retractable leashes). Observe your surroundings and assess people – especially friendly, excited children – approaching you and your pet, because physical contact from strangers in costumes may instigate a fearful or aggressive reaction.
Consider skipping the costume. It’s best not to dress up your pets for Halloween, but if you choose to, it’s important for pets to wear safe, comfortable costumes. They should be loose enough to provide freedom of movement but not loose enough to be a tripping hazard. On the other hand, costumes that are too tight can restrict breathing and make movement difficult. Make sure your pet’s costume does not interfere with vision or hearing. Also beware of small parts, like buttons or loose strings, that could be chewed off and swallowed.
Keep treats away from pets. Resist the temptation to share Halloween candy with your pet. In fact, keep all candy safely out of reach. Chocolate, candy or gum artificially sweetened with xylitol can be dangerous for dogs. Plus, cellophane or foil wrappers can cause problems if swallowed. Even natural treats like caramel apples should be off limits as eating items not normally on the menu can cause upset stomachs, GI blockages or pancreatitis.
Decorate with safety in mind. Festive decorations help set the mood, but they can also create health risks for your pet. While non-toxic, pumpkin and pumpkin seeds can upset stomachs, especially when consumed in large quantities. Lit candles in Jack-O-Lanterns may pose fire hazards if toppled by a curious four-legged friend. Decorative lights can brighten your porch but should be kept out of your pet’s reach as nibbling on electrical cords can cause electrocution.
To learn more, visit vcahospitals.com, where you can search for additional tips to make Halloween safe and fun for your furry friends.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
SOURCE:
VCA Animal Hospitals
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Lifestyle
Easy Pet Wellness Routine: 5 Healthy Habits for Dogs and Cats Without the Fuss
Build a simple, effective pet wellness routine with 5 easy habits. Learn how to support your dog or cat’s health through tailored nutrition, functional supplements, exercise, mental enrichment, and stress-reducing environments—without overwhelming your schedule.
Last Updated on January 9, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Easy Pet Wellness Routine: 5 Healthy Habits for Dogs and Cats Without the Fuss
(Family Features) Pets are more than companions – they’re family – and keeping them healthy can be simple, enjoyable and rewarding. Today’s pet parents may be busier than ever, yet they’re also more committed to wellness than previous generations. That means approaching their furry friends’ unique needs with the same balance, care and attention to overall well-being as they do their own. In fact, according to the 2021 Human Animal Bond Research Institute Benchmark Survey of Pet Owners, increased knowledge about the health benefits of the human-animal bond led 91% of pet owners to say they would be more likely to take better care of their pets. Pet health isn’t just about food, however. A holistic approach to wellness combines daily supplements, dental care, exercise, mental enrichment and proactive health, with many owners looking for ways to simplify routines to support their pets every day. These practical ideas can help support a pet’s overall wellness routine.
Tailor Flexible Nutrition Plans to Pets’ Needs Every pet is unique, but balanced nutrition forms the foundation of wellness. Dog and cat parents are increasingly seeking customizable food and supplement solutions designed around their furry friend’s age, needs and lifestyle. Age-specific formulations and products featuring natural, minimally processed ingredients and eco-friendly sourcing allow owners to support their pets’ overall health, from mealtime to daily wellness routines. Support Healthy Skin and Coat A pet’s coat often reflects its overall health. Along with a balanced diet and plenty of water, adding a daily supplement can help support a natural shine. While professional grooming keeps dogs and cats looking their best, incorporating regular at-home brushing and bathing with a gentle shampoo strengthens the bond you share and provides an opportunity to spot any changes, like lumps or bumps. Enhance Pet Wellness with Functional Support Even with a balanced diet, many pets may benefit from extra support to maintain their overall well-being. Functional supplements can help target specific needs, including joint mobility, immunity and stress relief. For example, NaturVet’s easy-to-use Lickable supplements – available in Hip & Joint, Calming and Multi-Vitamin formulas for dogs and cats – offer a simple way to make wellness an effortless part of everyday life. Promote Exercise and Mental Enrichment Movement is essential to any wellness routine. Regular walks, agility activities and games help keep pets fit and happy. Physical exercise is only part of the puzzle, though. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, scent games and agility training help dogs and cats stay mentally sharp, even on days when outdoor activity is limited. Create a Calming Home Environment Dogs and cats can experience stress when routines aren’t followed, just like people. Maintaining a consistent daily schedule and providing a quiet, comfortable space – such as a bed in a low-traffic area – can help promote calm, comfort and security. By taking a few simple, consistent steps each day, pet parents can create a balanced, enjoyable wellness routine that keeps their furry family members healthy, happy and thriving. From functional supplements and daily care habits to exercise, mental enrichment and a calming environment, small efforts can make a big difference, turning everyday care into a rewarding part of life with your pet. To find more practical health and wellness solutions for your pet, visit naturvet.com. 5 Easy Steps to Help Pet Owners Build Healthy Habits Creating a consistent health and wellness routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Consider these simple steps:- Start slow. Introduce new supplements or activities gradually to avoid overwhelming pets.
- Be aware. Review product labels and ingredient certifications to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your pet.
- Incorporate naturally. Mix functional supplements into meals or use them as a reward for good behavior.
- Stay consistent. Small daily actions can add up to long-term health and wellness.
- Monitor and adjust. Work with a veterinarian to create a tailored plan and observe your pet’s energy, mobility and mood, adjusting as needed.
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
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Why I Never Gave My Small Dog Rawhide Chews: A Pet Parent’s Perspective
As a small dog owner, I learned the hard way why rawhide chews are risky — especially for aggressive chewers like my Jack Russell–Chihuahua mix, Luna. Here’s what I discovered and why we chose safer alternatives.
Last Updated on January 1, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Dog chew bone
Why I Never Gave Luna Rawhide Chews — A Small Dog Owner’s Story
When we brought home our tiny but mighty pup, Luna — a Jack Russell–Chihuahua mix — we knew she loved to chew. In the past, I had given rawhide chews to larger dogs in our family, but thanks to my wife’s research and my own digging into the facts, we never gave rawhide to Luna. And here’s why. At first, rawhide chews seem harmless — they’re marketed as natural and long-lasting. But as I started reading more from trusted sources, it became clear rawhide treats can pose serious risks, especially for small dogs and aggressive chewers like Luna.
Luna smile for the camera – Image Credit: RW
Rawhide Isn’t Easy to Digest
Rawhide is made from animal hides that are chemically treated and dried. Dogs’ digestive systems simply aren’t equipped to break it down efficiently, which can lead to chunks getting stuck in the stomach or intestines. In some cases, these obstructions require emergency surgery. Veterinarians warn about choking and digestive blockages with rawhide chews. [oai_citation:0‡Veterinary Care at Your Fingertips](https://www.petscare.com/news/faq/do-vets-recommend-rawhide-for-dogs?utm_source=chatgpt.com)Choking and Blockage Risks Are Very Real
As puppies chew rawhide, it softens and can break into large, protective chunks that are easy to swallow whole. These pieces can become lodged in a dog’s throat, leading to choking, or travel into the gut and create dangerous blockages. The American Kennel Club explains that strong chewers can break off large pieces that are especially risky for small breeds. [oai_citation:1‡American Kennel Club](https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/are-rawhide-chews-dangerous-for-dog/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)Chemical Processing and Contamination Concerns
Rawhide is often treated with harsh chemicals like bleach or hydrogen peroxide during processing. These substances might not be fully removed and can irritate a dog’s stomach or cause other health problems. There’s also a documented risk of bacterial contamination with pathogens like Salmonella or E. coli. Research highlights these chemical and contamination concerns. [oai_citation:2‡Veterinary Care at Your Fingertips](https://www.petscare.com/news/post/why-rawhide-bad-dogs-dangers?utm_source=chatgpt.com)What We Do Instead
Instead of rawhide, we give Luna safer, digestible chews like bully sticks and rubber chew toys. These alternatives satisfy her chewing instincts without the same level of risk. When choosing any chew, we always supervise her — especially because she’s such an aggressive chewer. If you’re a small-dog owner like me, it’s worth reconsidering rawhide chews. With safer options available and documented risks associated with rawhide, I’m glad we made the switch for Luna before any issues arose.Paddletek Group Launches: What the New Multi-Brand Merger Means for Performance PickleballLink: https://stmdailynews.com/paddletek-group-launches-what-the-new-multi-brand-merger-means-for-performance-pickleball/
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Cozy Up to Peace of Mind: 4 Tips to Avoid Common Pet Hazards This Thanksgiving
Tips to Avoid Common Pet Hazards: Keep your furry friends safe this Thanksgiving with these 4 essential pet safety tips. Learn which foods are toxic to pets, how to pet-proof holiday decor, and what to do in emergencies. VCA Animal Hospitals offer 50% off ER exams to help protect your four-legged family members during the holidays.
Last Updated on December 24, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Cozy Up to Peace of Mind: 4 Tips to Avoid Common Pet Hazards This Thanksgiving
(Family Features) Thanksgiving is a time for cozy gatherings with loved ones to share gratitude, crisp adventures, festive decor and, oftentimes, delicious food. However, many traditions associated with giving thanks, including the feast, can pose risks to your furry family members. Even with the best-laid plans, accidents can happen. From tempting table scraps to the crackling fire and festive decor, it’s important to take steps to prevent seasonal hazards from ruining the celebration for your pets. However, should those unforeseen moments occur, participating VCA Animal Hospitals Emergency Care locations offer access to world-class emergency medicine, 50% off an ER exam for all pet owners and free ER exams for CareClub members. For added peace of mind, taking these extra precautions during the festivities can help keep your furry friends safe and healthy: Skip the Table Scraps While pleading eyes can be hard to resist when you’re gathered around the table, remember – and remind little ones – many Thanksgiving foods can make pets sick. Avoid feeding pets turkey skin, which can trigger pancreatitis, or bones, which could splinter and lead to choking or internal injuries, and pack away any leftovers quickly to keep curious pets at bay. Similarly, beware of ingredients like onions, garlic and chives, which are common in stuffing and casseroles, and are toxic to both dogs and cats. If you want to include your four-legged family members in the celebration, plain turkey breast, unseasoned green beans or pumpkin puree are safe for most pets to consume. However, many other seasonal desserts contain chocolate, raisins, grapes or the sugar substitute xylitol, which can also be harmful. Be sure to keep beverages out of reach as well, as pets can quickly absorb alcohol, which may lead to alcohol poisoning. Mind the Decorations Seasonal decor can make your home feel welcoming, but pets are curious by nature and often attracted to new items in their living spaces. Help keep your furry friends safe by sitting or hanging decorations out of paws’ reach and unplugging extra cords and string lights when not in use as they pose a chewing – and shock – risk to pets. Beware of Open Flames Heat sources, such as fireplaces and wood stoves, can be enticing with their warm embers and golden hue, but they also pose serious fire and burn risks should wagging tails or chilly noses get too close. Keep pets a safe distance from open flames by placing a guard around the flame and, similarly, keep lit candles out of pets’ reach. Prepare for Cool-Weather Walks If you live in an area with snow and ice, be cautious of weather conditions when sending pets outside to play or use the bathroom, and consider a pet sweater or jacket and booties to protect them from the cold. When going out for walks, particularly during the early morning and late evening hours, use a non-retractable leash to keep furry family members close, wear high-visibility gear and avoid paths, roads and trails with limited lighting. Visit vcaholiday.com to find a location near you in case of emergency and more tips to keep your pets happy and healthy this Thanksgiving. Emergency Situations That Require Immediate Attention During the holidays – or any other time or year – accidents can happen. Should your pet be involved in any of these situations, they likely require emergency veterinary attention:- Severe accident or trauma
- Vomiting or diarrhea that goes on for an extended time
- Severe fever or malaise
- Birthing problems
- Broken bones
- Getting hit by a car
- Seizures
- Shock
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Attack by another animal
- Known or suspected toxin ingestion
- Difficulty breathing or severe coughing
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
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