8 Ways to Prep Your Home for a Pet-Safe Halloween

Halloween is a fun and spooky time of year, but it can bring some unexpected risks for pets. The candy, decorations, and constant doorbell ringing can all cause stress or harm to dogs and cats. To make sure your furry friends stay happy and healthy, follow these simple Halloween pet safety tips for a safe and stress-free celebration.

1. Secure the Candy Stash

Halloween wouldn’t be complete without candy, but many popular treats can be toxic to pets. Chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and candies), and raisins are especially dangerous for dogs and cats. Store candy in a closed cabinet or high shelf, and remind guests and children not to share sweets with pets.

2. Decorate with Care

Festive decorations make Halloween fun, but some items can pose hazards. Avoid tinsel, fake spider webs, and plastic parts that could be swallowed. Instead, use pet-safe decorations made of fabric, paper, or natural materials. If you decorate outdoors, ensure that cords and décor are out of reach from curious paws.

3. Keep Wires and Cords Out of Reach

Many Halloween displays include lights or animatronics with wires and cords that pets may try to chew. This can lead to electrical shock or injury. Secure all wires along walls or use pet-proof cord covers. Always unplug decorations when unsupervised to reduce the risk of accidents.

4. Choose Pet-Friendly Costumes

Dressing up pets can be adorable, but not all animals enjoy wearing costumes. If your dog or cat shows signs of stress—scratching, whining, or freezing—skip the outfit. For those who don’t mind dressing up, ensure the costume fits properly, doesn’t restrict movement or breathing, and has no small pieces that could be chewed off or swallowed.

5. Create a Safe Haven

The constant noise of trick-or-treaters can overwhelm pets. Set up a quiet, cozy space where your dog or cat can relax. Include familiar bedding, toys, and background noise such as soft music or white noise to help mask doorbell sounds. You can also use Pet Releaf CBD to help your pet stay calm and comfortable throughout the night.

6. Keep Pets Indoors

Even if your pet normally enjoys being outside, it’s best to keep them indoors on Halloween. Unfamiliar costumes and increased activity can cause anxiety or lead to escape attempts. Ensure your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are current, just in case they slip out the door.

7. Use Caution with Candles

Candles can add a spooky ambiance but also create fire risks if knocked over. Use flameless LED candles instead of open flames, or place traditional candles on high shelves away from wagging tails or playful paws.

8. Educate Your Guests

If you’re hosting a Halloween gathering, remind guests to be mindful of doors and gates. Ask them not to feed pets table scraps or candy, and to keep personal items—like bags of treats—off the floor. A quick reminder helps ensure everyone keeps your pets’ safety in mind.

Enjoy a Safe, Happy Halloween with Your Pets

Halloween can be enjoyable for the whole family—including your pets—with a little preparation. Keep candy out of reach, choose pet-safe decorations, secure cords, and give your furry friends a quiet retreat when things get busy. For extra calm, consider Pet Releaf’s calming CBD products to help make Halloween a stress-free experience for your dog or cat.