As pet owners, we are always looking for ways to include our furry friends in our favourite holidays, and Halloween is no different. But, in this, we need to be aware of the potential dangers of these events.
That's why in today's blog, we have some great information to help you prepare for the Halloween weekend, taking the stress off both you and your pet.
What foods are harmful to dogs around Halloween?
Around Halloween, many foods can be extremely harmful to our pets, whether big or small. Chocolate and lollies may be our favourite treats during this time, but these tempting snacks can cause serious health issues if our pets ingest them.
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic to pets. Symptoms can range from mild vomiting and diarrhoea to severe problems such as hyperactivity, tremors, seizures, an elevated heart rate, and even heart failure or death. The severity depends on the type and amount of chocolate consumed, as well as the pet's size. Darker, more bitter chocolate is also the most dangerous. If your pet does consume chocolate, seek veterinary assistance immediately. Time is crucial and could mean saving their life.
Gummy lollies, sour lollies and everything in between are also extremely dangerous for pets to consume, primarily because they cause gastrointestinal issues. Many lollies contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is highly toxic to pets. Xylitol can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia), which may lead to symptoms such as diarrhoea, seizures, tremors and excessive urination. Immediate veterinary intervention is essential to prevent blockages, severe liver damage or even death.
Are Halloween decorations dangerous for dogs?
Halloween decorations may bring a spooky charm to our homes, but many of them can be hazardous to pets. Items such as fake cobwebs, string lights, candles, balloons and small plastic props may seem harmless, yet they can quickly become dangerous if curious pets decide to investigate. Fake cobwebs in particular are a major choking hazard. Pets may chew or paw at them, and if swallowed, the webbing can wrap around the tongue, block the airway or create an intestinal blockage that requires emergency surgery.
Electrical cords and fairy lights can also cause severe burns, electric shocks or fires if gnawed on, while lit candles pose a serious risk of burns or accidental house fires if knocked over by an unsuspecting tail or paw. Dangling decorations and hanging ornaments may encourage playful behaviour, but if pets become tangled, they can lead to panic, injury or strangulation. Balloons, once popped, are particularly risky as the fragments can be swallowed and lodge in the throat or stomach, creating life-threatening blockages. Even glow sticks and glow jewellery, often used around Halloween, contain substances that can irritate the mouth and cause drooling, vomiting, and distress if ingested.
To keep pets safe, always place decorations out of reach, avoid using real flames, secure any cords, and avoid items like fake cobwebs altogether. A few small changes in how you decorate can make all the difference in preventing choking hazards, emergency vet visits, or death.
How to include my pet in the Halloween festivities?
Including your pet in Halloween festivities can be a wonderful way to celebrate, but their safety should always come first. Halloween can be overwhelming for animals with the constant noise, strangers at the door, and the temptation of toxic treats. To protect them, keep pets indoors and secure them in a quiet, comfortable space where they can retreat if the excitement becomes too much.
If your pet tolerates it, dress them in a comfortable costume that doesn’t restrict their movement, and host a Halloween-themed photoshoot with pet-safe props. You can also make or buy special Halloween treats designed for pets, using safe ingredients like pumpkin or peanut butter (without xylitol). For interactive fun, try a Halloween scavenger hunt for treats and toys.
Most importantly, respect your pet’s comfort levels. Some animals enjoy dressing up and joining in, while others may find costumes, crowds and noise stressful. Watch for signs of anxiety, offer their favourite toys or bed to help them feel secure, and never force them to participate. By making small adjustments and choosing pet-friendly activities, you can keep Halloween both safe and enjoyable for your furry friends.
Bonus: Pet-friendly Halloween treat recipe
Halloween treats don’t just have to stop with humans! Pets can get in on the fun as well with these delicious treats.
Ingredients:
1 ripe banana
1/2 cup boiled pumpkin, cooled and mashed
1/2 cup plain yogurt (unsweetened and unflavoured)
Instructions:
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Peel the banana and mash it in a bowl until smooth.
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Add the pumpkin and plain yogurt to the mashed banana and mix well.
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Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or scary silicone moulds.
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Place the trays in the freezer and let the treats freeze for a few hours or until solid.
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Pop out the frozen treats from the moulds, and store them in a resealable plastic bag or container in the freezer.
