With 41 million trick-or-treaters expected to hit the streets and more than 70% of adults planning to celebrate Halloween, October 31 has become one of the biggest holidays of the year. But for pets, the night has the potential to turn into a real nightmare. Follow these five tips to avoid the most common Halloween pet hazards.
1. Keep Candy Out of Reach
Most dog owners know that chocolate and other sweets are both tempting and dangerous for Fido, and with a holiday that’s all about candy, it’s essential to be extra vigilant. In between trick-or-treaters, keep the candy bowl on a high shelf, and make sure your kids don’t leave their booty out where your pup can find it.
2. Choose Costumes With Care
According to the National Retail Federation, this year 16% of Americans plan to dress-up their pets for Halloween. Dogs in masks and hats make for great Instagram posts—with a few precautions. Avoid disguises with parts that dangle or can get caught on furniture or doors, and never leave your pet in costume unattended.
3. Disable the Doorbell
Many pups are upset or excited by the sound of a ringing doorbell, and a constant stream of trick-or-treaters coming to the door can wear out your pet—and you. Disconnect your bell for the night, or cover it with a note asking little ghosts and goblins to knock instead.
4. Make Your Pet Visible
Halloween is one of the most dangerous nights of the year for pedestrians. If your furry family member will be joining the gang for trick-or-treating, invest in a reflective leash or collar to make your pet more visible for drivers. And keep a tight grip on the leash—the excitement of so many new smells and people to greet can make even the best-behaved dog forget his training and bolt off into the night.
5. Provide a Quiet Apace to Retreat
For some dogs, all of the commotion can be too much to take, leaving them nervous and stressed out. If you notice your pet is pacing, excessively panting, shaking, or whining, put her in a quiet room or crate with water, a soft place to curl up, and her favorite toy.
Wishing you and your four-legged friend a howling good time this All Hallows’ Eve!