- 550 Route 22 Pawling NY, 12564
- 845-493-0094
- Contact@happylifeanimalrescue.org
Halloween is one of our favorite nights of the year. Costumes, pumpkins, neighbors out on the sidewalk. But for our dogs and cats, it can also be the most confusing night of the year: strangers at the door every few minutes, strange smells, glowing decorations, and a bowl of candy sitting right at nose level.
The good news? A little planning goes a long way. Here are our team's top tips for keeping your pets safe, calm and happy this Halloween.
Chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats, and darker chocolate is the most dangerous. Just as risky is xylitol, a sugar substitute found in many sugar-free candies and gums. Even a small amount can cause a dangerous drop in a dog's blood sugar. Keep candy bowls up high, remind kids not to share their haul, and empty those pillowcases somewhere the dog can't follow.
Foil, cellophane and lollipop sticks can cause choking or blockages if swallowed. If your pup goes "trick-or-treating" through the trash, call your vet.
A constant doorbell and a parade of masked strangers is stressful for many animals, especially shy dogs, cats and newly adopted pets. Set up a cozy room away from the front door with their bed, water, a favorite toy and some background noise like a TV or soft music. A long-lasting chew or puzzle toy helps, too.
Every time you hand out candy, that door is an escape route. Keep dogs leashed, gated or in another room during trick-or-treat hours, and keep cats closed in a back room. A frightened pet can bolt fast, and it's dark out.
Before the big night, check that your pet is wearing a collar with a current ID tag and that their microchip registration has your current phone number. If they do slip out, it's the fastest way to get them home.
Some pets love a festive bandana. Others really, really don't. If you dress up your pet, make sure the costume doesn't restrict movement, breathing, sight or hearing, and has no small pieces that can be chewed off. Try it on a few days early, and if your pet freezes, hides or tries to wriggle out, skip it. A Halloween bandana still makes a great photo!
Candles and jack-o'-lanterns can be knocked over by a wagging tail or curious cat. Battery-operated lights are safer. Keep cords, fake cobwebs and glow sticks out of reach. Glow stick liquid usually isn't highly toxic, but it tastes awful and can cause drooling and upset.
If your dog is social and loves crowds, they can join the fun. Use a sturdy leash (no retractables), add a light-up collar or reflective gear, and keep the walk short. If your dog is nervous around kids, costumes or noise, they'll be happier at home.
Halloween night is busy, loud and full of cars. Bring outdoor cats in before dark and keep them in for the evening.
If you think your pet ate something they shouldn't have, don't wait for symptoms. Call your veterinarian, your nearest emergency vet, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (available 24/7; a consultation fee may apply). Save the number in your phone before the holiday.
Every day, our dogs and cats are waiting for families of their own. Some are puppies and kittens with endless energy. Others are older, calmer souls who would love nothing more than a warm spot on the couch for scary-movie night.
Here's how you can help a rescue animal this season:
From all of us at Happy Life Animal Rescue: have a safe, happy and not-too-spooky Halloween! 🎃🐾
Share your pet's Halloween look with us on social media. We love seeing our alumni all dressed up (or proudly refusing to be)!