Halloween Pet Safety Tips

Fright night might be fun for humans, but it can be downright spooky—and even dangerous—for pets. From candy to costumes, Halloween brings plenty of changes that can throw our pets off balance.

“Problems can arise for pets when their environments and routines change suddenly,” said Jess Waters, CVT. “Candy, costumes, trick-or-treaters, candles, and decorations are foreign and possibly dangerous to pets during this occasion.”

What to keep in mind this Halloween:

Candy Caution

While you're enjoying your Halloween treats, keep an eye on curious noses. Candy can cause serious stomach troubles in pets—and some ingredients, like xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and candies) and chocolate, are highly toxic. Even small amounts can lead to severe health issues.

Lollipop sticks, wrappers, and plastic bits can also spell trouble if swallowed, potentially causing dangerous intestinal blockages. Keep your candy stash tucked safely away, and remind kids to do the same!

Be Mindful of Trick-Or-Treaters

A steady stream of strangers in costumes can make pets anxious or territorial. Try keeping them in a quiet, cozy room away from the front door to prevent stress—or a quick escape when the door opens.

If you’re heading out to trick-or-treat, it’s best to leave your dog at home. Even the calmest pup can get spooked by flashing lights, shrieks, and unfamiliar sights. And just in case, make sure your pet is wearing up-to-date ID tags or has a microchip—those can make all the difference if they do slip out.

Pet Costumes

Pet costumes are adorable, but not every animal enjoys them. If your pet’s new to dress-up, introduce the outfit slowly. Keep the sessions short, pair them with treats and praise, and watch for signs of stress.

Never leave a costumed pet unsupervised—costumes can be chewed, tangled, or caught on something, leading to injuries. If your pet seems uncomfortable, skip the outfit and go for a cute bandana or festive collar instead.

Pet-Friendly Decorations

Halloween décor can be as tempting to pets as it is to trick-or-treaters. Keep candles and jack-o’-lanterns out of reach (or swap in flameless, battery-powered versions), and secure any electrical cords to prevent chewing.

Avoid fake spiderwebs, glow sticks, or small decorative pieces that could be swallowed. And since new sights and smells can make pets uneasy, give them a safe, quiet corner of the house free from spooky setups.

Create a Cozy Retreat

If your pet gets anxious with all the commotion, set up a calm space with their favorite toys, a comfy bed, and maybe some soothing background music. Sometimes the best Halloween plan for pets is simply peace and quiet.

Being mindful of these little details can make Halloween safer, less stressful, and way more fun for your pets. Happy Howl-oween from all of us at DoveLewis! 🎃

If you think your pet may have come in contact with or ingested something toxic, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately at (888) 426-4435, your local emergency hospital, or DoveLewis at (503) 228-7281.