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Writer's pictureLiz Adams
Sep 284 min read

Spooky Fun or Frightening Fiasco? Halloween Pet Safety Tips

Halloween is a time for fun, but it can be a little overwhelming for our furry family members. Whether you’re a proud pet parent or helping run an animal rescue, it’s important to keep our pets’ safety in mind during the festivities. At Pet Protect & Connect, we know how much your pets mean to you — and we’re here to help you keep them happy and healthy, especially around Halloween.


Here are some friendly tips to make sure this spooky season is safe and fun for everyone — cats, dogs, and especially those newly adopted pets.


3 dogs dressed up for Halloween

Pet Safety Tip 1

Costume Fun — But Only if Your Pet’s On Board!

Let’s be honest, pets in costumes are adorable! But not every pet enjoys getting dressed up, and that’s okay. Before you outfit your dog or cat in something spooky or sweet, make sure they’re comfortable and safe in their costume.


  • Pet Parents: Pick costumes that aren’t too tight and don’t restrict movement, vision, or breathing. Be mindful of little accessories that could be chewed off and swallowed — safety first!

  • Animal Rescues: If you’re celebrating Halloween with your adoptable pets, consider fun alternatives like festive bandanas or harnesses, especially for animals who may not be used to costumes yet.


Dexter, our Head of Naps, much preferred dressing up as Sergeant Dexter instead of Dexter the Lion.


Pet Safety Tip 2

Treats for You — Not for Them

We know Halloween is all about the candy, but for our pets, many of these sweet treats can be dangerous. Chocolate and candies containing xylitol (a common sugar substitute) are toxic to dogs and cats, so be sure to keep your stash out of reach.


  • Pet Parents: Make sure all candy, wrappers, and goodies are safely tucked away where curious noses can’t reach them. Remind kids that sharing Halloween candy with your dog or cat is a no-go.

  • Animal Rescues: When you’re talking to potential adopters, it’s always a good idea to mention the dangers of certain foods. Holidays like Halloween are perfect opportunities to remind them about keeping their pets safe from everyday hazards.


Pet Safety Tip 3

Create a Calm Safe Space Away from the Spookiness

Between trick-or-treaters, doorbells, and costumes, Halloween can feel pretty hectic for your pets. Whether they’re the type to greet every visitor or prefer to hide, it’s helpful to have a calm space ready for them.


  • Pet Parents: Set up a quiet room where your pet can relax if the hustle and bustle gets to be too much. Add their favorite toys, blanket, or calming music to help them chill out.

  • Animal Rescues: If you’re hosting an adoption event around Halloween, be mindful of how overstimulation might affect the pets. A little extra TLC can make all the difference in helping an animal feel safe.


A small dog on a welcome mat near the house door

Pet Safety Tip 4

Watch Out for Door Dashers!

With the door opening and closing all night, it’s easy for pets to get spooked and try to make a quick escape. Keep an eye on your pets so they don’t make a dash for it between trick-or-treaters!


  • Pet Parents: If your dog or cat tends to get curious when the door opens, it’s a good idea to have a plan in place. Whether that’s a baby gate or keeping them in another room, it helps keep them safe indoors. Make sure their ID tags are up to date and be sure you have their microchip info handy for extra peace of mind.

  • Animal Rescues: New adopters might not realize how common it is for pets to bolt out the door during busy holidays. This is a great time to reinforce safety precautions and tips with new adopters.


Pet Safety Tip 5

Beware of Spooky Décor

Halloween decorations are fun for us, but they can be dangerous for our pets. From flickering candles in jack-o’-lanterns to fake cobwebs, it’s important to pet-proof your décor.

  • Pet Parents: Keep candles, string lights, and small decorations out of reach. Pets can get tangled in decorations or accidentally knock things over. Remember, it’s all about finding that balance between fun and safety!

  • Animal Rescues: If you’re decorating for Halloween events, stick with pet-friendly decorations to keep the animals safe. A little planning ahead will help everyone stay safe.


Pet Safety Tip 6

Keep Newly Adopted Pets Safe at Halloween

Bringing home a new pet around Halloween? Congratulations! But keep in mind that this holiday can be overwhelming for newly adopted pets. Even without the excitement of a holiday like Halloween, new sounds, sights, and smells are a lot to take in!

  • Pet Parents: If you’ve recently adopted a dog or cat, give them time to settle in without the added stress of trick-or-treaters. They need a quiet and calm space at home for quite a few nights to get comfortable in their new space, regardless of holidays or festivities.

  • Animal Rescues: This is a great opportunity to remind adopters about the “3-3-3 rule” for newly adopted pets. Adjusting to a new home takes time — encourage them to go slow and provide a safe, calming environment for their new furry family member.


A Happy and Safe Halloween for All

Halloween should be fun for everyone — including our beloved pets! With a little extra care and attention, you can keep your dog or cat safe and happy during the spooky season.

A cat dressed up for Halloween

Local to Connecticut like us? If your pup's up for it, check out some of these pet-friendly Halloween events coming up.

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