Animal expert warns ‘healthy Halloween treat’ could be deadly for dogs

A PET expert has revealed that a seemingly safe Halloween treat could be deadly for pets.

With spooky season in full swing, many of us will be eagerly decorating our homes from top to bottom with spider webs, skeletons and pumpkins in advance of Halloween parties, spooky movie nights and the arrival of trick or treaters.

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Of course, it’s common knowledge that dogs can’t eat chocolate, so pet owners will want to keep Halloween treats away from their puppies.

However, pet professional Andrew Leal, CEO of pet insurance company Waggel revealed there’s another tasty seasonal treat that pets should be kept away from.

Cutting pumpkins into spooky shapes and baking the insides into cakes is a classic Halloween activity, but did you know that the healthy vegetable can even be a threat to pets?

Andrew said: “Domestic dogs can consume pumpkin in certain forms – preferably skinned and chopped, fried or pureed.

“Pumpkin is actually a good source of fiber and trace minerals, and has been found to aid digestion in dogs.

“However, some parts of pumpkins are unsafe for our four-legged legends to eat.”

Pumpkin skin can be a choking hazard for small dogs and puppies and can clog the stomach and intestines.

Andrew explained: “The stems and leaves of the pumpkin are covered in small, spiky hairs.

“These can be harmful to dogs – especially puppies – as they can aggravate the mouth during chewing, the throat on the way down and the stomach once swallowed.”

If you think there’s a chance your dog will try to eat the pumpkins you carve this Halloween, you should remove the leaves and stems.

Or, if you want to leave the pumpkin completely intact, make sure it is out of reach of your pets.

Andrew added that anything containing sugar, spices and artificial sweeteners is prohibited for pets.

He revealed that these treats can lead to gastrointestinal upset, pancreatitis or worse.

Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions and garlic should also be kept away from pets.

How to Keep Your Pet Safe Around Halloween

1. Secure your treats

Store all Halloween items in tall cabinets or locked containers, out of the reach of your pet.

2. Create a safe space

Provide a quiet room for your pet, away from the excitement and possible temptations.

3. Educate guests

Inform visitors, especially children, not to give your pet treats.

4. Use pet-safe decorations

Choose pet-friendly decorations and keep small items that could be swallowed out of reach.

5. Keep an eye on the door

Make sure your pet doesn’t slip away when 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 recommend keeping pets away from potentially harmful foods this Halloween,” says Andrew. “Halloween is for kids – not for dogs.

“If your dog ingests unprepared pumpkin or any of the other treats mentioned above, he may vomit!

“If they don’t, keep an eye on them afterwards and prepare for a possible vet visit.”

Foods you can give your dog

Barbara Hanly, dog wellness expert and founder of Soopa – healthy, plant-based dog treats – revealed which human foods your pup can eat.

1. Pumpkin: Pumpkin is a great source of fiber, which helps with digestion and firming stools. It’s also rich in vitamins A, C and E, giving your dog a nutritional boost and keeping his tummy happy.
2. Carrots: Carrots contain few calories, but a lot of beta-carotene and fiber. They’re fantastic for dental health (they’re nature’s toothbrushes) and they support your dog’s vision and immune system! Raw or cooked, carrots can be given daily as a crunchy snack or added to meals.
3. Ginger: Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help soothe your dog’s stomach and nausea. It is best to give it mixed with meals or treats, especially if your dog has an upset stomach or arthritis.
4. Blueberries: These little powerhouses are packed with antioxidants, which help fight harmful free radicals in your dog’s body and support brain function. Plus, they make for a tasty, bite-sized snack!
5. Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are packed with dietary fiber and vitamins B6, C and beta-carotene. They are great for digestion and provide a constant source of energy. Serve cooked (steamed, baked or pureed), as a treat or mixed into meals, a few times a week.