With costumes, decorations and an abundance of tempting treats, Halloween, or howl-o-ween (see what we did there?), is a time for spooky festivities. However, it can be a challenging and potentially stressful time for our furry friends. This guide is here to help you and your pet have an enjoyable, spooky Halloween with no nasty shocks or surprises. And remember, having pet insurance can provide peace of mind during this festive season.

Secure the Sweets

As we all know, we’re not the only ones with a sweet tooth. Given half the chance, almost any dog will gobble up any chocolates or sweets they can reach. Chocolate is poisonous to dogs and cats due to the presence of theobromine and caffeine. These substances naturally occur in cacao beans, which chocolate is made from and humans can easily process them. It’s a different story for pets.

Dogs and cats process the substances found in chocolate much slower than humans. So these chemicals can accumulate in their bodies to toxic levels if they are exposed to them. Therefore, all sweets should be kept safely out of reach.

Consider buying approved Halloween dog treats made from dog safe chocolate if you want to include the pets in the trick or treating fun.

And don’t forget, pet insurance can help cover unexpected vet visits if your pet gets into something they shouldn’t.

Trick-or-Treat Safely

During trick-or-treating hours, it’s best to keep your pet in a quieter and more secure room away from the front door. Frequent visitors in costumes can be stressful for dogs and cats, which could make them understandably anxious. Make them a safe a comfy bed to retreat to or crate dogs if they have been taught to do this. Having pet insurance can be a lifesaver if your pet experiences stress-related health issues.

Enjoy Pet Halloween Costumes Properly

It’s not just us humans that get dressed up for Halloween. Some pet parents dress their furry friends in adorable Halloween costumes. However, if you want to dress your pet in a costume, make sure it doesn’t restrict their movement, breathing, or vision. Also, look out for small costume parts that pets can chew and potentially swallow. 

Watch Your Pets Around Pumpkins

While carving and lighting pumpkins is a classic family pastime at Halloween, be aware that they can pose a hazard to curious pets. In particular, curious younger animals once a pumpkin is lit with a candle. 

We highly recommend using safer battery-operated candles, which can generate the same spooky glowing effect. If you do choose to use battery operated candle, be sure to keep them out of reach of your pets. In the unfortunate situation that your pet swallows a battery, it could be fatal. Pet insurance can help cover the costs of emergency treatments in such cases.

Make Sure ID and Microchipping Is Up To Date

With increased visitors at the front door, your dog or cat may get spooked. This is yet another reason why your pet should ideally be kept in a secure room. Remind any friends or family staying with you to make sure your pet is kept safely inside the property. 

Remember that it is also a legal requirement for dogs and cats to be microchipped for added safety and security. If your pet does get spooked and makes a run for it, a microchip with up-to-date details will significantly increase the chances of a safe return. 

Our friends at Perfect Pet insurance can cover the costs associated with lost pet recovery such as theft and straying, advertising and a financial reward (in all policy types excluding “Accident only”).

Socialise Securely

If you plan on heading out with your dog trick-or-treating, keep your pooch safely on the lead, especially when unfamiliar costumes and decorations may make them anxious. 

Remember that each dog is unique, and what may be stressful for one might not be for another. Pay attention to your dog’s body language and behaviour to gauge their comfort level and prioritise their well-being during the Halloween festivities. And remember one of the best ways to care for your pet is with Pet Insurance.

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Authored by Tom – Perfect Pet Vet.