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Halloween Pet Safety

  • Writer: Traci Wilkerson Steckel
    Traci Wilkerson Steckel
  • Sep 11
  • 2 min read


Blonde Chihuahua and brown Dachshund wearing Halloween costumes standing in front of jack o lanterns..
Angel Spokesdogs, Emee and Lexi

It's NEVER too early for Spooky Season! Especially when it comes to being prepared on what to do to keep your pets safe, and how to help a lost pet that may wander into your yard or porch. Please read the following tips on Traci's Paws Pet Blog, The Paws Spot.



A hairless cat wearing a Teenage Mutant Ninja Halloween Costume
Cat Ninja

Contact information


Halloween is a night when a LOT is going on, and it can be scary for many pets.


While Halloween is not as problematic as the 4th of July, when pets often run away, it is a time when pets can get lost. Be sure to get their collars on with proper ID, whether a tag or a collar with their name and number embroidered on it. Please update the contact information and verify it with your microchip company to ensure accuracy. No microchip? No problem! You still have time to get one!



A grey pitbul and a tan and blonde Chihuahua both wearing bright and colorful pinata Halloween Costumes.
Doggy Pinatas

Pet Theft


Halloween can be a time of mischief. Whether it is considered serious or just a minor prank, you never want your pets to participate. Be sure to keep all pets inside to prevent them from being stolen or falling into the hands of pranksters.




Two blonde Labrador retrievers dressed up as mad scientists in a laboratory decorated basement.
Frankenstein's Lab

Noise


Trick or Treaters are cute and fun, but can make a lot of noise! Please keep your pets in a safe place in the house where they feel the most comfortable. You know your pets best, so consider keeping them close by in a kennel or a quiet, locked room with white noise.





Bulldog and large rescue dog dressed as Beauty and The Beast for Halloween!
Beauty and the Beast!

Candy


Store your candy where your pets cannot get to it. Candy is unhealthy for our furbabies, and chocolate or anything with artificial sweeteners is toxic, so keep them away! Also, to be safe, always know where your nearest Emergency Vet or Pet ER is located in case they sneak some candy in.




Black and white Chihuahua, dressed as a cowboy, for Halloween.
Howdy Partner!

Decorations

Just like candy, decorations can be dangerous. Keep pets away from items that could be choking hazards or cause a fire, such as candles. Opt for electric candles over real flame ones. If you use props for photos, please always accompany them throughout the photo shoot to keep them safe.






Lost Pets

Sometimes when pets are scared, they bolt, and we know that their owners will be grateful if you can help reunite them. If you encounter a lost pet or have one come to you, we'd like to share the tips from San Diego Humane Society on how to help. Click here if you FOUND A LOST PET.





Three guinea pigs wearing Halloween hats, dressed up for a Pet Costume Contest, with  a castle backdrop, surrounded by pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns.
The 3 Guinea Pigs of Halloween!

Costumes


If you need to dress your pet up for the occasion to get some good photos, ensure the costume is safe and comfy, and never stress your pet by forcing them to wear it. NO pet asks to get dressed up, LOL! Only we silly pet parents love it (me included!). So if your pet doesn't mind wearing a costume, make it the most relaxed and comfortable experience.



Speaking of costumes, we have included some of our furiends' pet photos from a previous Traci's Paws Halloween Costume Contest! Please enjoy and be sure to share these tips with your friends.



Want to hear Emee the Chi's Halloween Pet Safety tips? Check her out!




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