Halloween Safety Tips for Pets

Image from Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota

What Every Pet Owner Should Know

Halloween is an exciting time filled with costumes, decorations, and plenty of treats. But while we humans enjoy the spooky season, it can be a stressful and potentially dangerous time for our pets. Here’s how you can keep your furry friends safe, comfortable, and happy during the Halloween festivities.

1. Keep Pets Away from Halloween Lollies

One of the biggest hazards for pets during Halloween is lollies. Many treats, especially chocolate, can be toxic to animals. Chocolate contains theobromine, which dogs and cats can’t metabolise, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and even seizures. Xylitol, a sweetener found in sugar-free lollies and chewing gums, is also dangerous and can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar or liver failure in dogs.

• Tip: Keep all Halloween lollies out of reach, and remind children not to share their treats with pets. Have pet-safe treats on hand, so they don’t feel left out.

2. Choose Pet Costumes Carefully

Dressing up pets can be fun, but it’s essential to ensure their comfort and safety. Not all pets enjoy wearing costumes, and forcing them to wear something that causes stress or discomfort can lead to anxiety or behavioral issues. If your pet seems uncomfortable, consider skipping the costume or choosing something simple like a bandana.

• Tip: If you do dress up your pet, make sure the costume fits properly and doesn’t restrict movement, breathing, or vision. Avoid costumes with small pieces that can be chewed off and swallowed.

3. Keep Decorations Out of Reach

Halloween decorations can pose risks to pets. Strings of lights, candles, and even carved pumpkins with candles inside can be hazardous. Curious pets may try to chew on electrical cords, knock over candles, or ingest small pieces of decorations.

• Tip: Use flameless candles to prevent burns or fires, and keep decorations high enough so pets can’t reach them. Secure any loose wires or cords.

4. Manage Halloween Night Anxiety

Constant doorbell ringing, strange costumes, and unfamiliar noises can cause anxiety for pets, especially dogs. The excitement and frequent disturbances can make them feel uneasy, leading to excessive barking, hiding, or even attempts to escape.

• Tip: Consider keeping pets in a quiet, comfortable room away from the front door. This helps reduce their exposure to the commotion and minimizes the chances of them bolting out when the door opens.

5. Ensure Proper Identification

With trick-or-treaters coming and going, doors will be opening frequently, increasing the risk of pets running outside. Even the most well-behaved pets can become scared and try to escape when they feel overwhelmed by the commotion.

• Tip: Make sure your pets are wearing collars with updated ID tags. Microchipping is also a great precaution if your pet isn't already chipped. If they do manage to escape, proper identification increases the chances of them being returned quickly.

6. Watch Out for Toxic Plants and Decorations

Some common Halloween plants, like pumpkins and decorative corn, can cause stomach upset in pets if ingested. While they’re not highly toxic, it’s best to prevent your pets from chewing on them to avoid discomfort or digestive issues.

• Tip: If you’re decorating with plants or natural elements, keep them out of your pet’s reach, especially if you have a curious eater.

7. Skip the Glow Sticks

Glow sticks are fun for Halloween night, but if your pet chews one open, the glowing substance inside can cause irritation. While it's not usually toxic, it can lead to drooling, vomiting, or general discomfort.

• Tip: Keep glow sticks out of your pet’s reach, and if they do bite into one, offer fresh water and consult your vet if symptoms persist.

Conclusion

Halloween can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to take extra precautions to ensure your pets stay safe and stress-free. By being mindful of potential hazards like lollies, costumes, and decorations, and by creating a calm environment for your pet, you can enjoy a spooky, safe, and memorable Halloween with your furry friends.