Halloween is one of the spookiest—and most exciting—nights of the year in Westminster. But while we’re all having fun with costumes and candy our furry family members might not feel the same way. As a pet sitter, I’ve seen firsthand how holidays like Halloween can be stressful and even dangerous for pets. To keep your pets safe this Halloween, I’ve put together seven essential tips that will help your pets stay calm, comfortable, and out of harm’s way.
1. Create a Safe Space Indoors
One of the most important halloween safety tips is to keep your pets inside during Halloween festivities, especially when trick-or-treaters are out and about. The constant ringing of the doorbell, knocks on the door, and strangers in costumes can make even the calmest pet anxious. If you’re hosting a party or expecting trick-or-treaters, create a safe and quiet space for your pets where they won’t be disturbed by the activity.
Additionally, Halloween night can unfortunately bring out pranksters who may target pets, especially black cats, for cruel jokes. Keeping them inside reduces the risk of these harmful encounters.
2. Choose Pet-Friendly Costumes
Dressing your pet up in a costume can be fun, but not all pets are comfortable wearing them. If you do decide to put your pet in a costume, make sure it is the right fit and doesn’t restrict movement, breathing, or vision. Always supervise your pet in costume to make sure they don’t get tangled, caught on objects, or overheat.
Check for small pieces or accessories that could be chewed off and swallowed, posing a choking hazard. If your pet seems stressed or uncomfortable, it’s best to skip the costume altogether. A simple festive bandana or collar may be a safer alternative.
3. Keep Candy and Chocolate Out of Reach
Halloween is all about sweet treats, but those treats are dangerous for pets. Chocolate is toxic to both dogs and cats, and many sugar-free candies contain xylitol, a sweetener that can be deadly to pets. Even candy wrappers can pose a choking hazard if ingested.
Make sure all candy and sugary treats are stored in a place your pet can’t access. If you suspect your pet has gotten into any candy, contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet clinic right away. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
4. Be Cautious with Halloween Decorations
Halloween decorations, such as string lights, fake cobwebs, candles, and hanging décor, can pose potential risks to pets. Curious cats and dogs may try to chew on cords or knock over candles, leading to burns, fires, or electric shocks. If you’re using candles inside carved pumpkins, consider swapping them out for battery-operated LED lights to prevent accidents.
5. Keep Pets Away from the Door
With the door constantly opening for trick-or-treaters, there’s always a chance your pet could dart out. Pets might try to escape due to anxiety from the unfamiliar sounds or the desire to greet strangers. To avoid any accidental escapes, consider keeping your pet in a different room or using a baby gate to block access to the front door.
Make sure your pet has proper identification, including a microchip and an ID tag on their collar, in case they do slip out unnoticed.
6. Beware of Toxic Plants and Decorations
Some Halloween decorations and plants can be toxic to pets. For example, pumpkins and corn are often used as decorations, but when ingested in large quantities, they can upset your pet’s stomach. Additionally, decorative plants like chrysanthemums are toxic to both cats and dogs, potentially leading to skin irritation, drooling, or digestive issues if consumed.
Keep these items out of reach and consider using pet-friendly alternatives for your Halloween décor.
7. Keep Your Pet Calm and Happy
Halloween can be an overwhelming time for pets, so it’s important to monitor their behavior closely. If your pet tends to get anxious with loud noises or unfamiliar sights, consider using calming products like pheromone sprays or anxiety wraps. You might also want to give them extra exercise earlier in the day to help burn off excess energy and reduce anxiety later on.
As your pet sitter, I always recommend spending a little extra time with your pet before the festivities begin to help ease their nerves. A good play session or a long walk can work wonders in helping them relax.
Conclusion
Halloween is a fun time for the whole family, but it’s important to remember that our pets might not share the same excitement. By following these simple tips—keeping your pets indoors, avoiding unsafe costumes, and staying cautious with candy and decorations—you can help make Halloween a safe and enjoyable experience for your furry friends.
If you’re busy with Halloween plans and need someone to keep an eye on your pets, don’t hesitate to reach out. As your trusted pet sitter, I’m here to make sure your pets are happy, comfortable, and safe, no matter what time of year it is!
