No Treat For Pets At Halloween

Pet owners have been warned to keep their animals tucked indoors on Halloween night by the DSPCA.

The Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said the weeks preceding the festival can be a very distressing time for animals, and although attacks were relatively rare, owners should remain vigilant.

The group said pets should be kept indoors in an area where they cannot escape and where the noise of bangers and fireworks is at a minimum. Putting a radio or television on in the room can also help said a DSPCA spokesman.

"When children are coming to the door to trick and treat, cats can quickly slip out the front door, and dogs sometimes try to bite unsuspecting kids, thinking that they're intruders," the spokesman said.

He added: "For everyone's safety, it's best to keep animals inside a bedroom or family room, away from all the commotion.

The group also warned against leaving animals in rooms with lighted candles, pumpkins, near bonfires, and added that animals should not be dressed up in costumes for the festivities, as they find it stressful.

(DW)