Spooktacular Safety Tips for Celebrating Halloween with Your Pup-kin

Costumes, trick-or-treaters, and jack-o-lanterns — all signs point to Halloween! For most of us, October 31^st can be a ghostly good time.

But for pets? Let's face it; it can be a Nightmare on Elm Street!

So, before the first trick-or-treaters come to your door and you dress up your pup-kin in an adorable costume, make sure your furry friend doesn't get spooked or sick with these easy tips. 

Tip #1: Candy is NOT for Pups…But Treats Are!

When your pet performs a trick, they deserve a treat – just make sure that treat is not candy! On and leading up to Halloween night, make sure to keep all candy treats out of your pet's reach. Consider storing sweets in a locked or high cabinet that even the most athletic of pooches won't be able to access. 

While your pup shouldn't be eating any candy, some types can be particularly toxic to them. Most pet owners know chocolate is a no-no, and artificial sweeteners can be especially harmful, like the sugar-free ingredient xylitol. 

If your suspect your pet has eaten anything toxic, call your vet or the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center's 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435.

Tip #2: Be Cautious with Costumes

There are so many gosh darn cute costumes out there for dogs! From princesses to monsters, and even hotdogs!

When it comes to dressing up your doggie, make sure to choose a comfortable costume that fits them properly. Ensure it doesn’t restrict movement or hinder their ability to breathe. Keep an eye on your dressed-up darling, and if they show any signs of discomfort like pacing, hiding, or refusing to move, take it off immediately. No cute photo op is worth your pet’s pain.

While there may be, in theory, a costume for every pet, not every pet wants to dress up—and that’s ok! Your pet can still celebrate the holiday with one of our Halloween-themed collars, harnesses, leashes, or bandanas. 

Tip #3: Guard the Front Door

Even the friendliest pups can be frightened by a goblin or witch at the door asking for a fun-sized candy bar. Can you think of anything scarier than your spooked pup getting loose? No spooky story or horror movie can compare to that frightening scenario!

With the front door opening and closing so often on Halloween night, it’s best to keep pets away from all the hocus pocus. When the bewitching hour is upon us and trick-or-treaters are running amuck, take your furry friend to a secure and quiet, safe space away from the door. 

Tip #4: Beware of Glow Sticks

Ghoulish glow sticks are a fun Halloween accessory and can help keep tiny humans safer while trick-or-treating at night. However, to dogs, they look like glowing chew toys. While the liquid inside glow sticks is usually non-toxic, that doesn’t mean it won’t agitate your pups’ mouth and paws.

If your fur baby does wind up getting ahold of a glow stick and starts drooling radioactive-looking goo, get the little trickster some fresh water or a small meal to help clear out the substance. And as always, give your vet a call to double-check whether you should bring your pup in for a checkup -- safety first! 

Tip #5: Watch Out for Dangerous Decor

Halloween decor can range from stretchy spider webs to elaborate props that jump, light up, and scream. Not only can this type of décor spook your pup, but it can also pose safety risks. 

If you are using candles to light your jack-o-lanterns or other decorations, make sure to place them out of reach of your pup. Wagging tails and sniffing noses can land on flames that may result in injury and burns or cause a fire. It’s best to opt for faux candles, still keeping them in an area your pets can’t get to easily. 

Electric and battery-powered décor is a little safer than an open flame. However, they still come with risks as they can be chewed or ingested, resulting in a visit to the emergency vet. Be sure your decorations are always out of reach of your furry family or that you are supervising them at all times. 

Follow all these pet safety tips to ensure your Halloween is Spooktacular! If you’re dressing up, make sure share your photos with us on Instagram @frenchie_bulldog. Happy Howl-o-Ween!