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Veterinary Specialty Hospital Roseville

Halloween Hazards: How to Keep Your Pets Safe This Spooky Season

Cat Sitting in a Green Candy Pumpkin Basket

Halloween is a time for costumes, candy, and spooky fun, but for our pets, it can be full of unexpected dangers. At VSH Roseville, your trusted 24/7 emergency veterinary hospital, we want to help you keep your pets safe and stress-free during this festive season. Here are some common Halloween hazards and tips to protect your furry family members.

1. Candy Isn’t So Sweet for Pets

Chocolate, xylitol, and other candy ingredients can be toxic to pets. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is dangerous for dogs and cats, especially dark chocolate. Sugar-free candies often contain xylitol, a sweetener that can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and liver failure in dogs.

What you can do:

  • Keep all candy out of reach.

  • Teach kids not to share their treats with pets.

  • Dispose

    of wrappers properly ingested foil or plastic can cause choking or intestinal blockages.

2. Choose Pet-Safe Decorations

Halloween decorations can be fun, but they may pose risks to curious pets. Glow sticks, candles, fake cobwebs, and small décor items can be chewed or swallowed, leading to choking or poisoning. Electrical cords from lights or animatronics can also be a hazard.

What you can do:

  • Use flameless candles instead of open flames.

  • Avoid decorations with small, detachable parts.

  • Keep cords and wires tucked away or covered.

3. Keep Pets Away from the Door

The constant ringing of the doorbell and the parade of costumed strangers can be overwhelming for pets. Stress, anxiety, and the risk of escape are real concerns during trick-or-treating hours.

What you can do:

  • Set up a quiet, secure space away from the front door.

  • Play calming music or offer enrichment toys.

  • Make sure your pet’s ID tags and microchip info are up to date, just in case.

4. Costume Caution

Pet costumes can be adorable, but not all pets enjoy dressing up. Ill-fitting costumes can cause overheating, restricted movement, or even injury.

What you can do:

  • Try the costume on ahead of time to check fit and comfort.

  • Avoid costumes with small parts that can be chewed off.

  • Never force a costume—some pets are happier au naturel!

5. Know When to Seek Emergency Care

Despite your best efforts, accidents can happen.

Call VSH Roseville immediately if your pet:

  • Ingests chocolate, xylitol, or other toxic substances.

  • Shows signs of choking, vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.

  • Has a sudden change in behavior or mobility.

  • Is injured by a decoration or costume.

We’re here for you 24/7, no appointment needed. Visit us at vshroseville.com or call us at (916) 783-4655.

Final Thoughts

Halloween should be fun for the whole family, including your pets! With a little preparation and awareness, you can enjoy the spooky season while keeping your furry friends safe and happy.

From all of us at VSH Roseville, have a safe and tail-wagging Halloween!