How to keep your pets safe this Halloween

Halloween’s becoming more popular across Australia. Every year, more homes are decked out with cobwebs, pumpkins, and fairy lights, and the trick-or-treaters are getting braver too!

It’s all good fun for us humans, but for our pets, it can be a pretty stressful night. The costumes, noises, and constant knocking on the door can be a lot to take in. So, here are some simple ways to keep your furry (and feathered) friends safe and calm this Halloween.
 

1. Keep pets indoors or in a quiet spot

If you can, keep your cats and smaller dogs inside on Halloween night, maybe even the night before and after. While we don’t usually have massive street parties, the extra noise or the odd prankster can still unsettle pets.

If your home gets busy, set up a little “safe room” where your pet can relax. Add their favourite bed, toys, and maybe a soft light. Close the curtains and turn off any flashing decorations to help them feel calm.

2. Keep them away from the front door

All the knocking and doorbell ringing can really stress pets out, or worse, tempt them to make a run for it. Try keeping them in another room while you’re handing out lollies.

If you’d rather not have trick-or-treaters stopping by, turn off your outdoor lights, close the curtains, and pop a friendly sign on your door asking people not to knock or disturb.

You could also leave a bowl of lollies or treats outside with a note letting visitors help themselves. It’s a nice way to join in without the chaos.

For dogs who get overexcited or bark at every sound, a baby gate or barrier can help keep them safely contained. It keeps things calmer and saves your pets (and your nerves) a bit of stress.
 

3. Use calming background noise

A bit of background sound can help drown out all the excitement. Try leaving the TV or radio on low or play some soft music. There are even “pet relaxation” playlists online if your furry friend is particularly sensitive. It creates a nice buffer against those random knocks and sudden shouts outside.
 

4. Watch those treats (especially chocolate!)

We all love a good sugar rush, but chocolate, lollies, and anything sweetened with xylitol are toxic for pets, especially dogs.

Whether you’re handing out treats at the door, or you’ve been trick-or-treating yourself, keep your treats up high or in closed cupboards, and don’t leave wrappers or lolly bowls on the table. Even a small amount of chocolate can make your pet sick.

5. Be mindful of pets and Halloween decorations

Pumpkins, lanterns, and fake cobwebs look great, but they can also cause your pet harm. Keep candles, wires, and small decorations out of reach, and don’t let curious noses get too close to anything hot or sharp.

After Halloween, do a quick tidy-up around your yard and driveway. Pick up any confetti, string, or costume bits that your pet might chew or swallow.
 

6. Plan your evening walk carefully

If you’re out walking your dog on or around Halloween night, choose a time when trick-or-treaters are unlikely to be around — maybe late afternoon before it gets dark, or later at night once everyone’s gone home. Some decorations have flashing lights or spooky sounds that can really startle pets.

Keep your lead a little shorter too, just in case your pup decides to bolt at the sight of a ghost or a giant inflatable pumpkin.

7. Check your pet’s ID and microchip

Halloween can be a bit unpredictable, so it’s a good time to make sure your pet’s ID tag and microchip details are up to date.

If your pet does go missing after being spooked, check with your local vet, council, animal shelter, or community Facebook group. Australians are great at helping reunite lost pets with their families.

8. Keep an eye on their behaviour

Pay attention to how your pet’s coping throughout the night. If they’re pacing, hiding, or panting, they’re probably feeling anxious. Give them some extra cuddles or let them retreat to their safe spot.

If they’d rather stay out of the action completely, that’s totally fine too.
 

A safe and happy Halloween for Aussie pets

Halloween might not be as big here as it is overseas, but more neighbourhoods across Australia are joining the fun each year. That means extra noise, costumes, and visitors, all of which can be unsettling for pets.

With a bit of preparation and a cosy spot ready for them to retreat to, your pets can stay calm while you enjoy the festivities.

Whether you’re handing out lollies, heading out trick-or-treating with the kids, or relaxing at home, keeping your pets safe and comfortable helps make Halloween a good time for everyone, humans and animals alike.