Halloween Safety Tips for Pets

Halloween is full of fun, but it also comes with hidden dangers for pets. Downtown Dog Resort and Hospital, we want to share how to help keep your Fur-baby safe with some tips from our sister company, Swan Harbor Urgent Care.

Halloween Safety Tips for Pets

Swan Harbor Urgent Care in Baltimore sees an increase in emergency visits around Halloween due to candy ingestion, costume mishaps, and stress. Here are some important safety tips to keep your furry friends safe.

🍫 Keep Candy Out of Reach

• Chocolate and xylitol (a common sugar substitute) are toxic to dogs and cats.

• Store candy in closed containers and keep trick-or-treat bags off the floor.

• If your pet eats candy, call your vet or an emergency clinic immediately.

👗 Choose Pet-Safe Costumes

• Avoid costumes with small pieces that could be chewed off.

• Make sure the outfit fits comfortably and doesn’t restrict breathing or movement.

• Always supervise your pet while they’re in costume.

🚪 Doorbell & Visitors

Constant knocking and doorbells can stress pets. Consider keeping them in a quiet room with soft music or a favorite toy while you hand out candy.

🕯️ Watch Out for Decorations

• Candles inside pumpkins can cause burns or fires if knocked over.

• Keep cords, fake cobwebs, and glow sticks away from curious pets.

🚶 Trick-or-Treating With Pets

If your dog enjoys walks and crowds, they might love tagging along. Just be sure to:

• Use a reflective collar and leash.

• Keep them close to avoid accidental candy drops.

• Skip the outing if your pet is anxious in noisy environments.

👩‍⚕️ At Downtown Dog Resort and Hospital, your pet’s safety is our priority. If your pet eats candy, injures themselves, or shows unusual symptoms this Halloween, our team is here to help.

Don't forget our Annual Halloween Costume Contest. Bring your dog dressed up on Halloween morning, dressed up in their costume, they will have fun all day with a free daycare that day, and be entered into our costume contest! The grand Prize is 5 free days of daycare. Keep a close eye on our Facebook and Instagram to see all the cute costumes. We will announce the winner around 2:00 on October 31st.