Halloween Pet Safety: 6 Tips for Dogs and Cats

Halloween is a fun night for families in Richmond and across Metro Vancouver, but candy bowls, costumes and a busy doorbell can be stressful for dogs and cats. Here are six simple tips, based on guidance from the ASPCA, to help your pet enjoy the season safely.

1. Keep candy out of reach

Chocolate and sugar-free sweets that contain xylitol can be dangerous for pets. Store treat bowls and trick-or-treat bags up high or behind a closed door. If your pet eats candy, call your veterinarian right away.

2. Choose a comfortable costume

Only dress your pet up if they seem to enjoy it. A good costume does not limit movement, hearing, breathing or barking, and has no small or dangling pieces that could be chewed off. Try it on before the big night and never leave your pet alone in a costume.

3. Watch out for glow sticks

Cats especially like to bite glow sticks. The liquid tastes very bitter and can cause drooling. Keep them away from pets.

4. Give your pet a quiet space

Strangers in costumes ringing the doorbell can be scary. Set up a calm room away from the front door, and talk to your veterinarian ahead of time if your pet is usually anxious.

5. Be visible on evening walks

It gets dark early in late October. Use a reflective collar or tag and a secure leash, and make sure your pet's ID tag is up to date in case they slip away.

6. Treat them with pet-safe snacks

Instead of sharing candy, reward your pet with treats made for dogs and cats. Browse our Halloween Sale for freeze-dried and air-dried treats, on now until October 31.

Visit us in Richmond: bring your costumed pet to Juicy Pet (5300 No. 3 Rd, Unit 214) before Halloween for a free pumpkin purée pouch or reflective walking tag while supplies last.

Source: ASPCA, "Tips on Costumes, Candy and Celebrating Safely With Your Pets this Halloween."