From haunted houses to costume parties, people have taken Halloween to a whole new level. While fake fear can be fun for people, Halloween can pose real dangers for pets. We don’t want to scare you, but pet emergencies are common during the Halloween holiday.

Familiarizing yourself with the most common hazards is the best way to prevent an emergency and keep your festivities fun, not frightening.

Hazard #1: Foods that are toxic or harmful to pets

Many Halloween treats are dangerous or even toxic to pets. Candies and baked goods containing raisins, grapes, macadamia nuts, chocolate, and the sugar substitute xylitol can cause toxicity in pets. Dogs or cats who ingest harmful ingredients can experience serious side effects, including rapid heart rate, acute kidney failure, neurologic signs, or a dangerous drop in blood sugar.

Even non-toxic foods can be harmful in large quantities. Pets who consume rich or unfamiliar ingredients can experience vomiting, diarrhea, or pancreatitis—a potentially life-threatening condition.

Protect your pet

Avoiding toxin ingestion begins with controlling access to harmful candy and foods.

• Keep Halloween treats out of paw’s reach, ideally in closed containers or on a high shelf.

• Instruct children to leave their candy in the kitchen, rather than their bedrooms.

• Tell guests not to feed your pet from their plates.

• Dispose of candy wrappers, sticks, and other trash immediately.

• If you know or suspect your pet has eaten something harmful, act fast.

  Call or come in for 24/7/365 emergency care.

Hazard #2: Pet escape

Ding-dong. Trick or treat.

A moment is all it takes for a curious or scared pet to slip through an open door or break free from their collar and leash. Before you know it, they’re running through a dark neighborhood filled with frightening decorations and costumed humans, disoriented and scared.

Protect your pet

Avoid the heartbreak of a missing pet by taking these simple precautions:

• Keep pets away from high-traffic areas, such as front doors, gates, or entryways, where they can slip out unnoticed.

• Confine pets to a separate room, crate, or secure pen if they are likely to bolt or become frightened by costumes or visitors.

• Ensure your pet always wears a collar with up-to-date ID tags.

• Check that your pet’s microchip information is current in the microchip registry. This will be critical if they get lost.

Hazard #3: Pet costume mishaps

This may not seem like a real danger, but a costume that is too loose or tight, or includes small choking hazards, can lead to serious harm.

Clothing can restrict your pet’s movement or breathing, cause them to trip and fall, or block their vision. Additionally, because clothing is unnatural for pets, dogs and cats may experience significant distress while wearing a costume.

Protect your pet

Try your pet’s costume on before you expect them to wear it.

• Check the fit to ensure comfortable breathing room and mobility without loose fabric that could cause your pet to fall.

• Remove small pieces that may be chewed or swallowed.

• Observe your pet’s behavior. If they are nervous, restless, or uncomfortable, consider a cute collar or bandana as an alternative.

Hazard #4: Pet fear, anxiety, or stress

While Halloween is fun for people, it can be overwhelming for pets. Pets don’t understand what’s happening, and the chaos may trigger anxiety, pacing, hiding, barking, or even aggression. In some cases, extreme or prolonged pet stress can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, escape, or destructive behavior.

Protect your pet

Turn potential nightmares into sweet dreams with these calming tips:

• Create a calm, quiet space away from the front door where your pet feels safe and relaxed.

• Use white noise, soothing music, or a fan to mask unfamiliar sounds.

• Give pets an enrichment toy or treat puzzle to distract them and keep them busy.

• Keep your pet indoors to reduce the risk of them escaping or becoming overwhelmed.

• Ask your veterinarian about calming aids like anxiety wraps, pheromone diffusers, or medication if your pet is highly sensitive to noise or visitors.

Hazard #5: Halloween decorations

That spooky setup may look great in your yard or home, but many Halloween decorations can pose serious risks to curious pets. Dogs and cats may chew on power cords or twinkling light bulbs, knock over candles, or swallow small decorations that can cause choking or a life-threatening blockage. Candles can burn paws or start a fire, and some fake cobwebs or glittery objects can be toxic or cause intestinal damage.

Protect your pet

Keep your festive flair by decorating with your dog or cat’s safety in mind:

• Keep cords, lights, and batteries out of reach or secured where pets can't access them.

• Avoid real candles and choose flameless LED candles instead.

• Supervise your pet around decorations, especially if they like to chew or explore with their mouth.

• Avoid fake spider webs and tinsel, as they are easy to swallow but difficult to digest.

• Clean up broken decorations immediately.

Halloween emergency? We’re here to help

When your pet has an emergency, the spookiest night of the year can quickly become a real nightmare. But you’re not alone. If your pet gets into trouble, the Red Bank Veterinary Hospital Mount Laurel team is just a call away. A quick response can make all the difference—so don’t wait, reach out. Call or stop by anytime for knowledgeable, compassionate, and timely emergency care.