Halloween: Safety Tips for Dog and Cats

Halloween can be a scary time for pets

Created: 10/20/2016 Updated: 8/4/2021 - Shelley Audis-Riddell

autumn advice, behaviour, Behaviour & Training, halloween, stress and anxiety

Halloween can be a frightening time for family pets. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful for them. To make Halloween enjoyable for everyone, it's important to consider their safety.

Bruce the labrador puppy with Halloween cauldron

  • Try heading out for your evening walk a little earlier than usual. Excitable children and spooky Halloween costumes can be very intimidating for dogs.

  • Keep your dog on a lead and if you do see trick-or-treaters on your walk, make sure you keep hold of it firmly in case your dog becomes frightened.

  • Consider asking your dog to sit and wait for a tasty treat as the trick-or-treaters walk by. This will help to keep your dog distracted and relaxed.

  • If trick-or-treaters call at your door, don't bring your dog to greet them. You never know what spooky surprises are waiting for you!

  • Make sure your dog or cat cannot escape through the front door when you open it. Keep connecting doors closed or consider keeping your dog or cat in a separate room or behind a baby gate.

  • It is a good idea to keep you dog or cat in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treating hours. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful for pets.

  • If your dog get stressed with people knocking or bringing the door bell, leave a bowl of sweets outside for trick-or-treaters to help themselves. Giving your dog a chew or treats in an activity toy to keep them busy can help reduce stress.

  • Keep delicious dishes or sweets out of reach...your pet may not be able to resist!

  • If you're thinking of dressing your pet in a Halloween outfit, make sure they don't become stressed. Avoid any clothing that restricts their movements, or prevents them from eating, drinking and toileting. If your pet does become stressed, remove the clothing immediately.

  • If you're decorating your house for Halloween, keep decorations out of your pet's reach.

We hope this advice is useful for you and your pet family. Please feel free to share...

Do you need further advice?

If you need any further advice, please contact the OSCAR Helpline Team on our freephone number 0800 195 8000 or email helpline@oscars.co.uk.