5 Tips for a Pet-Friendly Halloween

Halloween is one of our favorite holidays. Each year we stock up on tasty treats and look forward to opening the door to smiling faces and clever costumes. Unfortunately, Ivy and Crumpet do not share our enthusiasm for the festivities! Read on for our top 5 tips for a pet-friendly Halloween. 

1. Safety first!

Many animal companions go missing during holiday celebrations each year, especially when the festivities are held at night. Make sure your pet’s microchip information is up to date and all identification tags are secure. If your dog joins you for outdoor Halloween activities, consider a collar or costume with reflective patches that will be easy to see in the dark. 

2. Stress management.

The persistent ringing of the doorbell and the constant parade of strangers can cause a great deal of stress for our animal companions. Create a safe space by moving their bed or crate to another room. Including a favorite blanket or toy can provide comfort and familiarity. You may wish to play music or a podcast at a low volume to mask some of the noise. 

3. Avoid costume drama.

Keep your companion’s comfort and personality in mind when choosing a costume. Some animals enjoy dressing up, while others are more comfortable with a low-key bandana or collar. Avoid costumes with dangling decorations that could become choking hazards or abrasive fabrics that might cause skin irritation. Ensure that the costume fits well and allows your pet to see, breathe, and move freely.

4. Mind the Jack-o-Lanterns

Cooked pumpkin is a delicious and safe food for our animal companions, but in raw form it can contain harmful bacteria. The seeds, stringy innards, and outer shell are not good for pets, so keep them away from your four-legged friends when carving pumpkins. Avoid using wax candles to light your Jack-o-Lantern. Fire safety is not the only concern -- if ingested, your pet could choke or develop an intestinal blockage. Flameless votive candles are a safer option. 

5. No candy, please!

Make sure that your Trick-or-Treat loot is kept well away from your animal companions. All types of chocolate are toxic to cats and dogs, as well as any candy or gum that contains xylitol. If you suspect that your pet has eaten candy, contact your veterinarian immediately or call the Pet Poison Hotline (800-213-6680).

I hope you find these tips helpful. From our home to yours -- wishing you a safe and festive Halloween!