Halloween is an exciting time filled with costumes, treats, and fun, but it can also bring some unexpected dangers for our pets. From toxic candy to frightening noises, Halloween may be more stressful for your furry friend than fun. Here are some simple tips to ensure that both you and your pets enjoy a safe, stress-free holiday this Halloween.

1. Keep Candy Away from Pets

Halloween sweets might be tempting for your furry friends, but many types can be harmful:

• Chocolate, especially dark and baking varieties, is toxic for both dogs and cats. Make sure all candy is stored out of reach.
• Candy wrappers can lead to choking or digestive blockages if swallowed. Watch for symptoms like vomiting, low energy, or loss of appetite, as these may indicate your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t.
• Xylitol, a common artificial sweetener found in some candies, can be extremely dangerous for dogs, potentially leading to serious health issues.

To keep your pets safe, ensure all treats are stored securely and that trash cans are sealed. Snack bags can be particularly hazardous, so be sure to cut them open flat before disposing of them to prevent suffocation.

2. Be Cautious with Costumes

Dressing up your pet can be fun, but not all pets enjoy it:

• Test out the costume ahead of time to make sure it fits well and doesn’t interfere with your pet’s ability to move, breathe, or see.
• Steer clear of costumes with small or dangling parts that your pet could chew on or swallow.
• If your pet shows signs of stress or discomfort, it’s better to let them skip the costume and just enjoy the holiday in their natural coat.

3. Safeguard Your Halloween Decorations

Seasonal decorations can pose risks for inquisitive pets:

• Items like batteries, glow sticks, and electrical cords can be dangerous if chewed or swallowed.
• Keep lit candles, especially those inside pumpkins, out of reach to prevent burns or fires.
• While pumpkins aren’t highly toxic, consuming too much can cause stomach issues for pets.

Always place decorations out of reach and keep an eye on pets when they’re near anything that could be harmful.

4. Create a Calm Space Indoors

Halloween can be overwhelming for pets due to the increased noise and activity. Help them stay calm by:

• Providing a quiet, cozy spot where they can relax, away from the doorbell, trick-or-treaters, and other Halloween commotion.
• If your dog tends to bark or feel anxious, consider keeping them in a separate room when guests are arriving to reduce stress.

With all the activity, it's also easier for pets to slip outside unnoticed. Ensure your pets have updated ID tags or microchips just in case.

There are many supplements that can assist with calming your pet, we recommend Silver Bullet: CBD/CBG Tincture, SilverDog CBD/CBG Soft Chews, or SilverCat CBD/CBG Soft Chews. 

5. Keep a Close Eye Outside

While Halloween is a fun time, it can pose risks for pets outside:

• Keep your pets indoors to protect them from possible pranks or teasing. Dogs in particular may react to the noise and strange costumes with fear or aggression.
• If you’re handing out candy, consider doing so outside or in a separate area to keep your pets away from the excitement and reduce their stress.