Halloween can be an exciting time for humans, filled with costumes, candy, and spooky fun. But for our pets, it can be confusing and stressful. From the constant ringing of doorbells to the dangers of candy, pet owners must be cautious during Halloween. Follow these simple tips from Purina expert Dr. Ragen McGowan, PhD, to keep your furry friends safe and calm.
Stay Inside
Halloween brings a lot of unfamiliar sights and sounds that can make even the calmest pets anxious. With strangers at the door and unusual costumes, your pet may feel frightened or threatened. To keep them safe, it’s best to keep your pets indoors.
Dr. McGowan also suggests taking precautions in case your pet slips out during the chaos. Make sure your pets have proper identification, such as collars with tags or microchips. This will help someone return them if they run off, which is a real risk with trick-or-treaters coming and going.
Keep Candy Out of Reach
We all know that candy is a Halloween staple, but it can be dangerous for pets. Many pet owners are aware that chocolate is harmful, but other sweets are just as dangerous. Artificial sweeteners, like xylitol, found in some candies, can be toxic to dogs and cats. Even a small amount can lead to serious issues like vomiting, diarrhea, or even poisoning.
The best rule of thumb is to keep all candy and wrappers securely stored away from pets. Instead, if you want to treat your pet, opt for specially made dog or cat treats to celebrate the occasion.
Prepare Your Pets
Halloween means a lot of doorbell ringing, which can be stressful for pets who aren’t used to it. Start preparing your pets ahead of time by getting them used to the sound. Dr. McGowan suggests practicing with the doorbell a few weeks before Halloween. Try ringing it and rewarding your dog when they don’t bark or react.
If possible, invite friends over to simulate the experience of trick-or-treaters so your dog can get accustomed to the activity. This will help reduce anxiety and make Halloween night less overwhelming for your pets.
Keep Costumes Simple
Dressing up pets for Halloween can be fun, but not all pets enjoy wearing costumes. Costumes that restrict movement, cover their heads, or cause discomfort may stress your pet out. Instead of a complicated costume, consider something simple, like a Halloween-themed collar, leash, or bandana.
If you do choose a costume, make sure it’s lightweight, breathable, and easy to put on and take off. Pay attention to how your pet reacts, and if they seem uncomfortable, it’s better to skip the costume entirely.
Find Soothing Solutions
Even with all the preparation, some pets may still feel stressed by the sights and sounds of Halloween. If your pet tends to get anxious during fireworks or thunderstorms, consider using calming products like a wrap that applies gentle pressure to comfort them. These wraps can help reduce anxiety by giving your pet a sense of security.
Additionally, create a quiet space for your pet to retreat to if they’re feeling overwhelmed. A comfortable room away from the front door, complete with their favorite toys and a cozy bed, can make Halloween night much less stressful for your pet.
Halloween doesn’t have to be scary for your pets. With these tips, you can make sure your furry friends stay safe, calm, and happy during the celebrations.
FAQs
Can I give my pet Halloween candy?
No, candy can be harmful to pets, especially chocolate and those with artificial sweeteners.
Should my pet wear a Halloween costume?
Only if they are comfortable. Keep costumes simple, like a bandana or collar.
How can I prepare my dog for trick-or-treaters?
Start by practicing with the doorbell and rewarding them for staying calm.
What if my pet gets anxious during Halloween?
Consider using calming wraps or creating a quiet space for them to relax.
Is it safe to let my pet outside on Halloween?
It’s best to keep them indoors to prevent them from getting scared or running off.
