From the constant doorbell ringing to the strange costumes and scary decorations, there are plenty of reasons why your pet/s may feel anxious. To ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for your dogs and cats in Houston, here's our guide to Halloween safety for dogs and cats.
Keep Your Pets Indoors
On Halloween night, it's a good idea to keep your pets inside, especially if they are easily frightened or anxious. The sound of doorbells ringing and costumed strangers can often be overwhelming for them. If you have to take your dog for a walk, do it earlier in the day when the neighborhood is calm. For cats, it's best to keep them indoors year-round, but especially on Halloween when pranksters may be out and about.
Secure Your Pets
Make sure your pets are safely contained in your home. Cats should be kept in a room away from the front door, where they won't be tempted to escape. For dogs, consider using a baby gate as a barrier or placing them in a secure crate. A frightened pet may bolt if given the chance, so these measures will help to ensure they can't escape.
Create a Safe Space
Create a quiet and comfortable oasis for your pet with their favorite toys and bedding. Play soothing music or white noise to drown out the doorbell and noise from outside. Offer treats and comfort to reassure them.
Costume Considerations
While dressing up pets in costumes can be adorable, it's not always a good idea. Some animals find costumes uncomfortable or even frightening. If you do decide to dress up your pet, make sure the costume fits well and doesn't restrict their movement or breathing. Always supervise them while they're in costume, and remove it if they show any signs of distress.
Decorations and Candy
Halloween decorations, such as fake cobwebs, glow sticks, candles, and jack-o'-lanterns, can be hazardous for curious pets. Dogs might chew on cords or decorations, and cats may try to climb them, leading to potential accidents. Additionally, keep candy and chocolate out of reach as they are toxic to pets. Some artificial sweeteners found in sugar-free candy, like xylitol, can also be extremely dangerous for dogs.
ID Tags and Microchipping
In case your pet does manage to escape or become lost during Halloween festivities, it's crucial that they have proper identification. Ensure your pet has an up-to-date ID tag on their collar and is also microchipped. Microchips provide a permanent form of identification that can be a lifesaver in finding lost pets.
Plan Ahead
If you're hosting a Halloween party or having guests over, be sure to keep your pet in a safe and comfortable place. Avoid guests feeding your pet human treats and ask them to be cautious when opening doors.