Halloween is one of the most exciting days of the year for people — but for pets, it can be downright scary! Strange costumes, constant doorbells, flashing lights, and tempting treats can all cause anxiety or even danger for our four-legged friends.
To make sure everyone enjoys a safe and stress-free holiday, here are five expert tips to keep your pets calm and protected during Halloween.
1. Calm Their Nerves Naturally
The days leading up to Halloween can be filled with unusual sights and sounds. A natural calming supplement for dogs or cats can help ease anxiety. Look for formulas that include valerian root and passionflower, herbs that support relaxation and mimic the body’s natural calming neurotransmitters.
These supplements can also help pets year-round, whether it’s thunderstorms, fireworks, or stressful trips to the vet.
2. Keep the Candy and Chocolate Away From Pets
Halloween candy may be irresistible to humans, but it’s dangerous for dogs and cats. Chocolate (especially dark or baking chocolate) can be toxic, and even small amounts of xylitol, a common sweetener in sugar-free candy, can cause serious harm.
If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.
3. Don’t Force Your Pet Into a Costume
Costumes can be adorable, but not every pet enjoys wearing one. If your dog or cat shows signs of discomfort like freezing, hiding, or trying to remove the costume, skip the dress-up this year.
If your pet does enjoy dressing up, let them try on the costume beforehand to ensure it fits comfortably and doesn’t restrict movement or vision. Always supervise your pet while in costume, and avoid any pieces that could pose a choking hazard.
4. Make sure everyone has an ID
Halloween night means open doors and distractions, which are a perfect storm for an escaped pet. Ensure your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are up to date. A microchip can be a true lifesaver if your pet becomes lost, allowing shelters or vets to identify and contact you quickly.
Even if your pet isn’t going out, the frequent doorbell ringing can cause them to bolt. Keep them safely indoors or secured in a quiet room.
5. Keep Pets Away from Decorations
Scary decorations are even scarier to our pets, so keep them at a safe distance! Dogs can easily knock over the carved jack-o-lantern and start a fire. Puppies and kittens are especially at risk of getting burned by a candle flame, due to curiosity or getting electrocuted from chewing on the cords of lights and motorized decorations.
Just going on a walk on the days before Halloween can be scary! Pets can recognize faces, and many scary lawn or window decorations with faces or masks are placed at ‘dog height’ and may spook them.
A Safe and Happy Halloween for Pets
Halloween can be fun for the whole family — including your pets — with a little preparation. Keep candy out of reach, skip costumes if your pet dislikes them, and use a calming supplement if your dog or cat gets anxious.
With these simple Halloween pet safety tips, you and your furry friend can enjoy the spooky season safely and happily!
This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your veterinarian about any questions or concerns.
