7 Tips to Keep Your Pets Out of the Spook on Halloween!
Halloween might be a blast for us humans—costumes, candy, doorbells ringing off the hook—but for our pets, it can feel like an invasion of tiny monsters. Here are our 7 tips for keeping your pets feeling safe and relaxed this Halloween, and out of the loose candy very likely to be strewn about.
Have an Early Bedtime
According to Dr. Corriveau of the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, the constant stream of kids in costumes at the door "may cause some pets to become fearful. These pets could run away and become injured in a variety of ways." The ASPCA also notes that this flurry of activity can be "scary and stressful for pets."
If your dog or cat gets jumpy around noise or strangers, do them a favor and set them up in a quiet, secure spot away from the front door.
A comfy bed, some white noise, and their favorite toy (or five) can go a long way toward keeping them calm while trick-or-treaters come and go. And if you’ll be out celebrating, make sure your pet is safely indoors—more than one Houdini has slipped out when the goblins arrive.
2. Double-Check Pet Identification
Between constant door openings and distractions, even the best-behaved pets can make a break for it. Before the big night, check that your pet’s ID tags are current and their microchip info is up to date.
No microchip yet? No problem. It’s quick, easy, and one of the best ways to make sure your furry friend always finds their way home. Schedule a visit with us at High Desert Veterinary in Bend—we’ll have them chipped before you can say boo!
3. Costume Safety Comes First
We love a good costume as much as anyone, but not every pet is cut out for cosplay. If you decide to dress up your four-legged sidekick, make sure their outfit:
Fits comfortably and doesn’t restrict breathing or movement
Has no dangling bits they can chew off
Lets them see and walk freely
And here’s the big one—never leave them unsupervised in costume. If your pet looks less “thrilled” and more “mildly humiliated,” snap your cute photo and set them free.
4. Decorate with Pet Safety in Mind
Halloween décor can be more trick than treat for curious pets. A few quick swaps will keep things festive and safe:
Use flameless candles instead of open flames
Keep cords and light strings out of reach
Skip dried corn cobs and hay bales (they’re better as porch décor than stomach fillers)
Your house can still look delightfully spooky—just remember what’s within paw’s reach.
5. Keep Candy Far, Far Away
Chocolate, sugar-free gum, and anything containing xylitol can be toxic to pets—and even candy wrappers can cause trouble.
Keep the pups’ attention on healthy and delicious treats by making them yourself. Sound like a hassle? Take heart. The handful of recipes featured in this great blog by our favorite freeze-dried pet food brand, Stella & Chewy, is worth the effort. Check out the recipes here.
If your pet gets into the candy stash, call High Desert Veterinary or Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) right away.
Pro tip: Store candy in sealed containers and remind kids—no sharing with the dog, no matter how good the puppy eyes are.
6. Glow Sticks and Face Paint: Fun for Kids, Not for Pets
Glow sticks and Halloween makeup might seem harmless, but they can cause drooling, nausea, or tummy upset if chewed or swallowed. If your pet gets into either, give us a call or contact Animal Poison Control for advice.
7. Be Ready for Emergencies
Keep these numbers handy—just in case things get a little too spooky:
High Desert Veterinary: 541-382-9262
Local Emergency Animal Clinic
Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435
When every second counts, you’ll be glad they’re easy to find.
Keep Your Pets Happy and Healthy This Halloween
With a little preparation, you and your pets can enjoy Halloween safely and stress-free. October’s also the perfect time to schedule your pet’s fall wellness exam, update vaccines, and confirm microchip info before the holiday chaos sets in.
🎃 Book your pet’s appointment today!
Call 541-382-9262 or request an appointment online at High Desert Veterinary in Bend, Oregon.
Because keeping your pet safe—that’s the sweetest treat of all.
