From the spooky to the sweet, Halloween is a lot of fun! If you plan to celebrate the haunting holiday with your pet, remember to keep your pet’s safety a priority. Follow these tips to make sure your furry friends enjoy the festivities as much as you do.

1. Be Careful with Candy

Most candy is a bad idea for your pets. Certain kinds of treats are especially toxic to animals, such as chocolate or xylitol (the sugar substitute used in some sugar-free sweets). Even sealed candy or empty wrappers can intrigue curious noses. Always keep all candy and packaging safely out of your pet’s reach.

2. Place Halloween Decorations Safely

Everyone loves fun and festive holiday décor, including some pets. Make sure any lit candles or jack-o-lanterns are out of reach for curious or exuberant pets and secure cords or wires to avoid tripping or chewing hazards.

3. Back Away from the Door

If your home is visited by trick-or-treaters, this can create a dangerous situation for your pet. Some pets may get stressed out by the ringing doorbell or parade of strangers at your door, which could lead to barking, hiding, or other stress reactions. Some pets may get excited and try to bolt out the door.

Most pets will do best spending peak trick-or-treating time away from the door in a separate room. Check in often to let your pet know you’re ok. A fun new toy can help keep your pet occupied between your visits.

4. Use Caution with Halloween Costumes

Many pet owners delight in dressing up their pets in hilarious or adorable costumes for the big day. However, not all pets are quite so enthusiastic about the idea. If a costume seems to be causing your pet distress or discomfort, do not force it.

Even if your pet loves dressing up, make sure the costume does not restrict your pet’s movement, breathing, or sight. Watch out for costume parts that could get tangled or caught on furniture, as well as any costume parts your pet seems tempted to chew.

5. Do not Skip the Tags

Make sure your pet is wearing up-to-date identification, even if your pet is in costume or if you normally forgo a collar at home. If your pet slips out the door or jumps the fence, proper ID will help your pet get home.

If your pet does experience some toil and trouble on Halloween, or if you have questions, the staff at Pet Hospitals of Hawaii are happy to help. Just call or text the location nearest you.