Halloween may be a favorite holiday for kids and pet owners in Somerville, but for many pets, it’s a night filled with unfamiliar sounds, smells, and strangers. Doorbells ringing, costumes rustling, and crowds of people can leave dogs and cats feeling anxious or overwhelmed. At Somerville Animal Hospital, we know that your pet’s emotional health is just as important as their physical health. Here’s how to make this spooky season a little less scary for your furry companions.
Tip #1. Create a Quiet, Safe Space for Your Pet
Your pet needs a secure spot where they can retreat from the chaos of Halloween night. Choose a quiet room away from the front door, with cozy bedding, their favorite toys, and soothing music or white noise.
Let them hang out in their safe space before the festivities begin so they associate it with comfort instead of punishment.
Tip #2. Limit Pet Costume Time (or Skip It Altogether)
While we love seeing cute costume photos, not all pets enjoy dressing up. If your pet shows signs of stress, like stiff body language, growling, hiding, or pawing at the costume, it’s best to ditch the outfit.
If your pet doesn’t mind dressing up, choose costumes that don’t restrict movement, breathing, or vision, and never leave them unsupervised while wearing one.
Tip #3. Minimize Trick-or-Treat Doorbell Stress
Frequent knocks or doorbell rings can trigger barking, pacing, or nervous behavior in dogs and confusion or hiding in cats. Here are a few alternatives:
- Sit outside to hand out candy, bypassing the doorbell entirely
- Put a friendly sign asking trick-or-treaters not to ring the doorbell
- Use calming music or white noise to reduce the startle factor
Tip #4. Use Pet-Safe Calming Aids If Needed
Some pets may need a little extra help getting through Halloween night. Pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, or vet-recommended calming treats or supplements are all options that may work for your pet.
For cats or dogs with more severe anxiety, ask your veterinarian about short-term medications that can be used on high-stress occasions like Halloween or the 4th of July.
Tip #5. Keep Pets Secure and Away from the Door
A frightened pet might dart out the door when it opens for trick-or-treaters. Use gates or closed rooms to prevent escapes, and be sure your pet’s ID tags and microchip are current, just in case.
Tip #6. Don’t Forget About the Candy
Even if your pet is calm around guests, Halloween candy poses another risk. Chocolate, xylitol, and raisins are toxic to pets. Keep all candy out of reach and remind kids not to share their treats. If a cat or dog gets into the candy, call animal poison control right away. There is a fee, but a poison specialist will assess the situation and let you know whether a trip to a local animal ER is necessary.
A Safe Halloween for Pets in Somerville, TN
Halloween doesn’t have to be a nightmare for your pets. With a little preparation and awareness, you can help them feel safe and supported while still enjoying the seasonal fun. Somerville Animal Hospital keeps pets safe with preventive veterinary care and anxiety guidance for cats and dogs in Somerville and from nearby Tennessee areas such as Oakland, Memphis, and Bolivar. Need calming support for your pet this Halloween? Call Somerville Animal Hospital to schedule an appointment.