Halloween Safety Tips for Pets

Halloween is full of fun, but it also comes with hidden dangers for pets. At Swan Harbor Urgent Care in Baltimore, we see an increase in emergency visits around Halloween due to candy ingestion, costume mishaps, and stress. Here are some important safety tips to keep your furry friends safe.

🍫 Keep Candy Out of Reach

• Chocolate and xylitol (a common sugar substitute) are toxic to dogs and cats.

• Store candy in closed containers and keep trick-or-treat bags off the floor.

• If your pet eats candy, call your vet or an emergency clinic immediately.

👗 Choose Pet-Safe Costumes

• Avoid costumes with small pieces that could be chewed off.

• Make sure the outfit fits comfortably and doesn’t restrict breathing or movement.

• Always supervise your pet while they’re in costume.

🚪 Doorbell & Visitors

Constant knocking and doorbells can stress pets. Consider keeping them in a quiet room with soft music or a favorite toy while you hand out candy.

🕯️ Watch Out for Decorations

• Candles inside pumpkins can cause burns or fires if knocked over.

• Keep cords, fake cobwebs, and glow sticks away from curious pets.

🚶 Trick-or-Treating With Pets

If your dog enjoys walks and crowds, they might love tagging along. Just be sure to:

• Use a reflective collar and leash.

• Keep them close to avoid accidental candy drops.

• Skip the outing if your pet is anxious in noisy environments.

👩‍⚕️ At Swan Harbor Urgent Care, your pet’s safety is our priority. If your pet eats candy, injures themselves, or shows unusual symptoms this Halloween, our team is here to help.