Watch for cars after dark
Choose a familiar, well-lit route and use a securely fitted collar or harness with a fixed-length leash. Keep your dog close; this isn’t the outing for a retractable leash.
Use reflective walking gear and carry a flashlight, but never assume a driver has seen you. Stay on sidewalks, watch for cars backing out of driveways, and cross at intersections or crosswalks rather than between parked cars. If you’re supervising children too, consider having another adult handle the dog. ASPCA safety tips · NHTSA walking safety
Give your pet permission to stay home
A dog who enjoys an ordinary walk may not enjoy a crowded Halloween sidewalk. Don’t force greetings with people in masks or let children crowd your dog. If your pet seems uncomfortable or keeps trying to move away, head home.
For pets staying in, plan walks and bathroom breaks before the busiest hours. Give them a quiet room away from the front door, with water and familiar bedding. Let everyone in the household know to keep that door closed. Check identification tags and microchip contact information in case your pet slips out. AAHA Halloween guidance
Keep candy out of reach
Put candy bowls and trick-or-treat bags in a closed cupboard, including the bags children bring home. Watch for dropped sweets on walks.
Chocolate can poison dogs and cats. Xylitol, found in some sugar-free candy and gum, can be life-threatening to dogs. If you think your pet ate something toxic, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic immediately. Save the packaging so they can check the ingredients. Don’t wait for symptoms or try home treatments, and never induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional tells you to. ASPCA Halloween guide · Poisoning guidance
Keep costumes optional
Skip the costume if your pet dislikes it. An outfit should allow normal breathing, movement, and vision, without loose pieces to chew off. Always supervise a dressed-up pet.
Keep candlelit pumpkins, electrical cords, and glow sticks out of reach. Chewed glow sticks can irritate the mouth, and swallowed plastic can cause problems. AAHA costume and decoration advice
Your pet doesn’t need to join every Halloween activity. A familiar evening at home may be exactly what they prefer.