Halloween for companion animals may bring more stress than fun. Costumes, a steady flow of strangers at the door, unusual noises, strange and startling sights and sounds on the usual walk around the neighborhood – from a companion animal’s point of view, Halloween deviates from the familiar routines. And that can disrupt comfort and be a cause for concerns.  You know your companion animals best, so take a moment to think about how they typically respond to variations in routines.With a few basic adaptions, you can keep your companion animal safe and comfortable throughout your Halloween festivities, whether you are going out or staying inside.

First Things First: Check to make sure ID tags are current, secure, and on before Halloween.

Going Out: If your dog is bothered by surprises, crowds, or costumes, consider taking the neighborhood walk earlier than usual to avoid the crowds and the fuss.  If this can’t be avoided, try walking with a familiar friend or two from the neighborhood (canine and human) to east stress. Consider a less-populated or shorter route, if possible. If your dogs are uncomfortable or generally dislike attention from strangers, avoid dressing them in costumes that will act like a magnet for unwanted attention in situations that already have them unsettled. Respect the dog.

Staying Home: Remember to plan in advance for companion animal safety. Keep unsafe food securely away from companion animals. If you expect Trick or Treaters at your door, consider separating your companion animals from the entry points of your main trick or treating activities to prevent escapes.  Let your cats, dogs, and other animals have a portion of your living space to themselves for the evening where they can sleep through the disruptions comfortably.  Use a space they already know, such as a bedroom or kitchen, with the doors closed, instead of putting them someplace unfamiliar, which may exacerbate their stress. Play a little quiet music or soft radio in the room, too, to help normalize the sounds they will hear (especially if you or your neighbors are playing loud, scary sound effects or hosting a party).

Happy Halloween!