HALLOWEEN: MAKE IT SAFE AND FUN
HALLOWEEN: MAKE IT SAFE AND FUN
As times change, so do our concerns. Most know that costumes for children should allow good visibility and carry a flashlight or “glo-stick”. We regulate which houses to visit and which ones to avoid. Parents carefully sort through the loot bag for and treats that have been tampered with or not wrapped. Your local Pet Store even carries costumes and treats for your pets. Even though this a "cute" idea, it is not in the best interest of your pet. Dogs and cats do not enjoy getting dressed up.
Here are a few thoughts to keep in mind:
1. Put all the treats out of reach for your pets. They will eat the wrappers and the candy. Most candy is hazardous for animals.
2. Don’t let your pet become a target for Halloween tricks. Many animals have been hurt, killed, teased, or stolen.
3. If you have a candle in your pumpkin, a confused pet could knock it over and accidentally get burned.
4. Because of all the strange noises and confusion, it is in your pet’s best interest to find a quiet safe place inside your house.
5. This holiday is really meant for children to dress up and go throughout the neighborhood with friends (an adult lurking in the background keeping an eye on them).
Other things to keep in mind:
1. Unfortunately the percentage of obese children has drastically grown; nearly 30% of children are considered obese. The same children usually grown into obese adults. Weight gain comes from lack of exercise and a poor diet. Statistics report 300,000 deaths each year. A night filled with sugary treats is hard to resist.
2. Halloween can be a great time to walk outdoors. Many children are driven to neighborhoods when a supervised walk would burn calories.
3. Home owners should re-evaluate what "treat" they dispense. There are many alternatives to candy. Pens, pencils, crayons, note pads, tooth brushes, pennies, gift certificates, wrapped cheese sticks, and fruit make healthy and eco-friendly treats.
4. If you do decide to give candy, buy Fair Trade, Organic treats.
Halloween can be RESPONSIBLE and FUN
November 1st should involve a joint effort of each neighborhood to pitch in and collect the trash.
Also, many college students, homeless shelters or overseas soldiers would appreciate a gift box full of treats.
ACT LOCALLY…THINK GLOBALLY
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