October 27, 2024 (AUSTIN, Texas)—Halloween can be fun for people, but it often brings unexpected trouble for pets. From nonstop doorbells to tempting candy bowls, the spooky season can turn stressful fast. Thrive Pet Healthcare is helping pet owners think beyond the basics with five smart ways to prevent fright-night emergencies.
“Pets don’t always see Halloween the way we do,” said Dr. Tony Coronado, Vice President of Emergency Medicine at Thrive Pet Healthcare. “Beyond candy and costumes, pets face stress from noise, escape risks from constant traffic, and hidden dangers in décor and treats. We want pet owners to look ahead and prepare.”
Block the escape zone
Front doors aren’t the only exit risk when trick-or-treaters arrive. Pets may slip through side doors, garage entries, or doggy doors in the commotion. Before dusk, secure all potential exits and keep pets in an interior room during peak hours.
Create a calm buffer before the first knock
Anxious pets handle the night better with early preparation. About an hour or two before trick-or-treating begins, move them to a quiet room with soothing background noise and a favorite toy or chew. Familiar sounds and scents can help steady nerves before the excitement starts.
For highly anxious dogs, prescription medications such as trazodone or gabapentin can be helpful, but they must be provided in advance and under veterinary supervision. “These medications can be part of a successful plan, but they’re not a last-minute fix,” Dr. Coronado said.
Watch for overlooked ingestion hazards
Chocolate and xylitol (an artificial sweetener) are well-known toxins for pets. Still, other items like candy wrappers, lollipop sticks, decorative corn cobs, and glow sticks can also cause choking, blockages, or poisoning. Keep all décor and treats well out of reach and check floors for dropped candy or wrappers.
Keep costumes simple
If your pet seems uncomfortable, skip the costume. Even a single accessory can cause stress or injury if it restricts movement or vision. A festive bandana or lighted collar offers a safer, easier way to join in the fun.
Double-check ID and microchip information
Before the festivities begin, confirm your pet’s ID tags and microchip registration are current. Keep a photo of your pet handy in case they get lost. Decide ahead of time where they’ll spend the evening, whether in a crate or a separate room away from the front door.
Dr. Coronado added, “If your pet only needs one new Halloween habit this year, make it identifying their safe space before the candy hits the bowl. Everything else follows from that.”
When to Seek Veterinary Care
If you see or suspect your pet has eaten something toxic, act fast. Call your veterinarian right away or contact Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661. Early treatment can make all the difference.
“When it comes to your pet’s health, don’t wait it out,” said Dr. Coronado. “Even if it’s late at night or you’re unsure what they ate, a quick call to your veterinarian or an emergency hospital can save your pet’s life. If you’re concerned, make the call.”
To locate a Thrive Pet Healthcare location near you, including primary, specialty, urgent and emergency veterinary care services, visit
www.ThrivePetCare.com.
