10/24/2025
Preparing Your Pets for Halloween: A Veterinarian’s Guide to a Safe & Stress-Free Night!
Halloween is full of fun — costumes, candy, and visitors galore — but it can also be a little spooky for our furry friends. Here are a few ways you can prepare in advance to keep your pets happy and safe this Halloween:
1. Create a safe space:
Before the trick-or-treaters arrive, set up a quiet room with your pet’s bed, toys, and water. This creates a safe space that helps reduce stress from doorbells, costumes, and commotion.
2. Keep candy out of reach:
Chocolate, xylitol, and other ingredients in Halloween treats can be toxic to pets. Make sure candy bowls and wrappers are well out of reach — and remind kids not to share!
3. Try on costumes early:
If your pet will be dressing up, introduce the costume a few days ahead of time. Make sure it’s comfortable, allows free movement, and doesn’t block their vision or breathing.
4. Practice “door manners”:
All the knocking and ringing can tempt pets to dart out the door. Check ID tags, microchips, and consider keeping your pet leashed, behind a baby gate, or in their own special room when you are greeting guests.
5. Watch decorations & candles:
Glow sticks, fake cobwebs, and open flames can be hazardous to curious mouths, paws and noses. Keep them high and secure.
A little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring your pets have a calm, safe, and not-so-spooky Halloween!
