Halloween is full of fun for humans, but for pets, it can be one of the most stressful nights of the year. Between the doorbell ringing, people in strange costumes, flashing lights, and tempting treats, even the most easygoing dog or cat can feel overwhelmed.
Here are some essential Halloween safety tips to help your furry friend stay happy, healthy, and calm through the spooky celebrations.
1. Prevent Escapes!
Halloween night is a prime time for pet escapes. Constant door openings, loud noises, and strangers at the door can make even well-trained pets bolt out of fear or curiosity.
Keep your pet secure by:
- Setting up a quiet, cozy room away from the front door with food, water, and familiar bedding.
- Adding favorite toys and calming background music to create a soothing environment.
- Using a sturdy gate or leash if your pet tends to dart when doors open.
- A soft bed or enclosed area is more comfortable and less stressful than plastic crates.
If possible, have a family member or sitter stay with your pet during peak trick-or-treat hours.
2. Ease Anxiety Around Costumes and Strangers
Masks, face paint, and unfamiliar voices can confuse or frighten pets. Some animals become anxious or defensive when they can’t recognize people they know.
Try this:
- Keep pets in a secure space away from guests or trick-or-treaters.
- If your pet struggles with social anxiety, consider a trusted pet resort or sitter for the evening.
- Support calm behavior with ReMag®, a gentle magnesium supplement that helps ease tension and supports cellular relaxation for both dogs and cats. A few drops mixed into water or food can help your pet stay relaxed through the night.
3. Reduce Noise Stress
Doorbells, screaming or yelling, and constant knocking can be overwhelming. Try to minimize loud and sudden sounds that can trigger your pet’s stress response.
Helpful tricks:
- Turn off your doorbell and sit outside to hand out candy.
- Play white noise, classical music, or calming pet playlists indoors.
- Draw curtains or close blinds to block flashing lights and movement outside.
4. Keep Candy and Decorations Out of Reach
Candy is for humans, never pets!
Chocolate, xylitol (in sugar-free gum and candy), raisins, and macadamia nuts can all be toxic or deadly for pets.
Pet-proof your home by:
- Storing candy in sealed containers and out of reach places.
- Reminding kids not to share sweets with furry friends.
- Using LED candles instead of real flames in pumpkins to prevent burns or fire hazards.
- Avoiding small, dangling or floor decorations that pets might chew or swallow.
5. Costume Caution
Costumes can be cute, but not all pets enjoy wearing them.
Before dressing up your pet:
- Make sure they can move, breathe, and see comfortably.
- Skip tight elastic bands, glitter, or dangling pieces that can irritate or injure.
- Try a festive bandana or themed collar if your pet isn’t a costume fan.
6. Exercise Before the Excitement
A tired pet is a calm pet!
Give your dog or cat some active playtime before festivities begin. Go for a long walk, play fetch, or engage them with puzzle toys. Releasing energy early helps reduce stress later when the noise and visitors ramp up.
7. Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Even with precautions, accidents can happen. Make sure your pet’s identification tags are secure and legible, and that their microchip information is up to date. These small steps make reunions faster and safer if your pet ever slips out.
Keep Halloween Night Fun (and Calm) for Everyone
Halloween should be full of treats, not stress! By preparing your pet’s space, keeping hazards out of reach, and using natural calming support like ReMag®, you can help your furry friend stay happy, safe, and relaxed all night long.
