Keeping your dog safe and happy during Halloween

Always keep your vet’s phone number to hand throughout this season. If your dog is behaving in a way that is unusual to them, don’t hesitate to call your vet immediately.

Here are eight ways to keep your dog happy and healthy this Halloween:

1. Dog fancy dress is not fun

Fancy dress is not for dogs, it is for people! Keep the hat, mask and wig-wearing to humans only and let your dog stay out of the way in a calm spot.

2. Chocolate and sweets are not treats

Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine which is poisonous to dogs. Some sweets contain xylitol which is very poisonous, and sugar can also be harmful. So, keep the sweet treats out of reach!

3. Strangers can be spooky

If you are expecting trick or treaters to come knocking, avoid letting your dog go to the door.

Strangers turning up, especially in costumes, can be unsettling for dogs. Make sure they have a quiet and calm environment to relax in while you hand out the treats!

4. Hair-raising choking hazards

This time of year, there are often more objects around that, if swallowed or inhaled, could obstruct a dog’s airway. Sweet wrappers, costume accessories, decorations and hard sweets all have the potential to cause a blockage and require surgical intervention.

Signs of an obstruction can include your dog going off their food, vomiting, seeming lethargic, constipated, straining to go to the toilet, or not going to the toilet at all. Contact your vet immediately if your dog is showing any of these signs.

5. Fireworks are frightening

Remember, remember that Halloween falls just a few days before Bonfire Night and fireworks are available in the lead up to both. Be aware that loud bangs and sudden bright lights may spook your dog. Pulling the curtains, playing some soothing music, walking your dog in daylight and ignoring the fireworks can support your dog through this time. Calming pheromone diffusers may also be helpful – speak to your vet about your dog’s specific needs.

6. Avoid pumpkin-based palavers

Many people enjoy putting candles inside carved pumpkins. Be aware that an excitable tail may knock a pumpkin over, and some dogs may even try to eat the pumpkin! Keep them out of reach and keep an eye on your dog on neighbourhood walks, just in case.

7. Earlier walks are less eery

If you usually walk your dog in the early evening, consider changing the time of your walk on Halloween. By walking earlier, you may avoid the rush of trick or treaters, which could be a stressful experience for your dog.

8. Even children can be scary, too!

On Halloween, your dog is likely to meet more children than usual. Even if your dog is normally very good with children, be aware that all is far from normal to your dog at this time of year. Costumes, painted faces, spooky noises and screams can all contribute to them having higher stress levels than normal. At all times, make sure your dog has a calm space they can go to which is away from other people. Also, if you’re concerned, don’t leave them unattended with children.