Halloween is a fun and spooky holiday that, sadly, can also be filled with potential hazards for our furry friends. From the abundance of candy to the excitement of trick-or-treaters, it is important to take a few precautions to ensure your pets stay safe and comfortable during the festivities!
Here are some practical tips to help your pets enjoy Halloween while avoiding common dangers:
Keep Candy Out Of Reach!
Store all candy in secure places that your pets cannot access. Use sealing containers but avoid using plastic bags, since most pets can chew or scratch through them extremely easily.
Chocolate Dangers: Chocolate, especially dark and baking chocolates, can be highly toxic to dogs and cats. It contains theobromine and caffeine, both harmful to pets.
Xylitol Awareness: Many sugar-free candies and gums contain xylitol, which is extremely dangerous for dogs and can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar or liver failure.
Raisins & Nuts: Some Halloween treats may contain raisins, which are toxic to dogs, and certain nuts (like macadamias) that can cause gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms.
If your pet does ingest something harmful, contact your vet immediately!
If for some reason you cannot reach a veterinary professional, call the ASPCA 24/7 Poison Control Hotline at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661
Candy wrappers can be attractive to pets, especially if they smell like chocolate or sweets. Wrappers can cause choking or intestinal blockages if swallowed, so clean up any discarded wrappers promptly!
Tip: If you want your pet to join in the fun, have pet-safe treats on hand to give them when the trick-or-treating starts!
Create A Calm Space Away From The Door!
With the doorbell ringing and strangers in costumes arriving for trick-or-treating, your pet can easily become anxious or overwhelmed. This is especially true for pets that are shy or nervous in new or loud environments.
Tip: Set up a quiet, comfortable room for your pet to relax away from the excitement. Provide toys, treats, and a cozy spot to rest. Playing soothing music or white noise can also help calm their nerves.
Monitor Your Pet’s Behavior!
Pets can react unpredictably to the sights and sounds of Halloween. Even a usually calm pet might become stressed or anxious due to unfamiliar noises, costumes, or a change in routine.
If your pet gets anxious with the sound of the doorbell, you might want to keep them in a separate room to reduce stress or consider sitting outside to greet trick-or-treaters instead.
Tip: Pay attention to your pet's body language. If they seem stressed, anxious, or scared, it might be best to keep them in a calm, quiet area. Consider using calming products like anxiety wraps, calming supplements, or pheromone sprays if necessary.
Choose Pet Costumes Wisely!
While pet costumes can be adorable, they may not be the most comfortable or safe options for your pet. Costumes that restrict movement, vision, breathing, or are made of materials that your pet can chew on can pose a danger. Never leave a costumed pet unsupervised!
Tip: If you do decide to dress your pet in a costume, make sure it fits properly and does not restrict their movement or senses. Monitor your pet closely, and if they seem uncomfortable or stressed, it is best to skip the costume altogether.
Watch Out For Decorations!
Halloween decorations like candles, string lights, and small objects can be hazardous to curious pets. Lit candles can easily be knocked over, causing burns or fires, while small decorations can be swallowed and cause choking or intestinal blockages.
Beware of Cords and Strings: Pets, particularly cats and puppies, might be tempted to chew on electrical cords from lights or decorations. Make sure these are securely out of reach or covered.
Tip: Use flameless candles or battery-operated lights to avoid fire hazards. Keep all decorations, especially those with small or sharp parts, out of your pet’s reach.
Keep Pets Indoors!
While Halloween can be a fun holiday, it can also attract pranksters who may target pets. (Black cats, in particular, have been known to be at risk during this time.)
Tip: Keep your pets indoors on Halloween night, especially if you have an outdoor cat. This reduces the risk of them being frightened, lost, or harmed.
Pet ID and Microchips Are Essential!
With all the commotion and the door opening frequently for trick-or-treaters, there is a higher risk of your pet dashing outside unnoticed.
Tip: Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with an updated ID tag. If they are microchipped, double-check that the information is up to date in the database. This will make it easier for someone to return your pet if they do get lost.
Use Pet-Reflective Gear!
If you are taking your pet out for a Halloween walk, ensure they have reflective gear, especially if they are outside in the dark. This will help keep them visible to drivers and others!
Tip: With all the excitement and distractions, pets may become more easily frightened and run off. Keeping them on a leash will help keep them safe!
Avoid Glow Sticks!
Glow sticks are popular on Halloween for safety reasons, but they contain a liquid that, while not highly toxic, can cause your pet to drool, paw at their mouth, or become agitated if they chew on one.
Tip: Keep glow sticks and other glowing items out of your pet’s reach. If they do manage to bite into one, rinse their mouth out with fresh water and monitor them for any adverse reactions.
Watch Halloween Plants!
Decorative plants like pumpkins and corn stalks may seem harmless, but they can cause digestive upset in pets if ingested in large quantities. Moldy pumpkins can pose additional risks.
Tip: If you are using pumpkins or other plants as decorations, make sure they are in areas your pet cannot reach. Dispose of any moldy or decaying plants promptly.
Have Fun Without The Stress!
Halloween is a time for fun! Planning ahead and being mindful of your pet’s needs will help them enjoy the holiday safely.
Tip: If your pet enjoys Halloween, include them in a pet-friendly way, such as a short costume parade or a walk during quieter hours. Always consider their comfort level and make adjustments as needed.
By following these tips, you can ensure that Halloween is enjoyable and safe for both you and your pets. Keeping their health and safety in mind will allow everyone to participate in the holiday fun without any scary surprises!
🎃 Have a safe and Happy Halloween! 👻
Kamie Roth
Author