Halloween is a fun holiday filled with costumes, decorations, and, of course, plenty of treats! But for our furry friends, Halloween can be a little more “trick” than “treat.” From strange costumes to doorbell-ringing visitors, the holiday comes with sensory overload that can leave pets feeling nervous or confused. Here’s how to make Halloween fun for both you and your pets, while ensuring they stay safe and comfortable.

1. Mind the Costume Comforts

• Keep it Simple: Costumes are adorable on pets, but they’re not always comfortable or safe. If you dress up your pet, choose costumes that don’t restrict movement, sight, or breathing. Avoid pieces with small parts, as these can be choking hazards.
• Watch for Signs of Stress: Even the simplest costume might not sit well with some pets. Look for signs like tail-tucking, panting, or attempts to remove the costume. If they’re uncomfortable, consider a festive bandana or Halloween-themed collar instead.
• Do a Dress Rehearsal: If your pet has never worn a costume before, let them try it out a few days before Halloween. This helps you both see how they react and lets them get used to it in a stress-free environment.

2. Beware of the Candy!

• Chocolate and Xylitol Dangers: Chocolate and xylitol, a sweetener found in sugar-free candies, are highly toxic to pets. Always keep Halloween treats out of their reach.
• Have Pet-Friendly Treats Handy: To avoid the temptation of sharing human treats, stock up on special pet-friendly treats. You can even bake some Halloween-themed dog or cat treats if you’re feeling creative!
• Teach Kids the “No Treats for Pets” Rule: If you have little ones or visitors, remind them that human treats aren’t safe for pets. Make it a rule that no candy is shared with the animals, no matter how cute their begging faces may be.

3. Decorate with Care

• Watch Out for Lit Decorations: Candles inside jack-o’-lanterns can be a fire hazard around curious pets. Use flameless candles instead to prevent any accidents.
• Tuck Away Electrical Cords: Halloween decorations often mean extra lights and electrical cords, which can be tempting to chew on. Make sure all wires and cords are out of your pet’s reach to avoid shocks or entanglement.
• Go Easy on Noisy Decor: Pets often don’t appreciate sudden noises or motion. If you have animatronics, strobe lights, or other spooky setups, consider keeping them away from areas your pet frequents.

4. Stay Calm During Trick-or-Treating

• Create a Safe Space: With the doorbell ringing constantly, pets can get stressed out. Create a quiet room with their bed, toys, and perhaps some soothing music where they can relax during the busiest trick-or-treating hours.
• Be Mindful of Door-Dashing: Halloween night provides many opportunities for pets to slip out of the house. Make sure pets are wearing collars with updated ID tags, and consider keeping them on a leash or behind a baby gate if they tend to dash.
• Social Pets Can Greet Carefully: If your pet loves people, they may enjoy the trick-or-treat action. However, be mindful that costumes can be confusing or frightening for animals. Always supervise interactions, especially with younger children.

5. Watch for Signs of Stress or Anxiety

• Know the Signals: Pets may display stress in ways we don’t immediately notice, such as pacing, whining, or excessive grooming. Be aware of their behavior and be ready to take a break from the festivities if they seem overwhelmed.
• Comfort with Familiarity: Using your pet’s favorite blanket, toy, or crate can help them feel secure. Some pets even benefit from anxiety wraps or calming supplements, but consult your vet first to find the best approach.