top of page

Spooky and Fun: Pet-Friendly Halloween Ideas

Oak Grove Kennel

Halloween is this Thursday, October 31st! And it isn’t just for humans—it can be a spooktacular time for pets too! Whether you love to include your furry friend in all the seasonal fun or want to keep them calm and comfy during trick-or-treating, there are plenty of ways to make Halloween enjoyable for everyone, including your four-legged family members. Here are some pet-friendly Halloween activities to try this year, along with costume ideas to help them join in on the fun—without causing any stress.

A dog wearing a sheet like a ghost next to a couple of pumpkins.  Photo by Paige Cody

1. Keeping Your Pet Calm During Trick-or-Treaters

Halloween can be stressful for pets, especially with the constant ringing of the doorbell and new people arriving in costumes. To help your furry friend stay calm, create a quiet, cozy space where they can retreat. You can also keep the TV or music on to mask the sound of the doorbell. If your dog tends to get anxious, consider giving them a treat-filled puzzle toy to keep them distracted. Keeping your pet safely inside and away from the door will prevent any attempts to dart outside during all the excitement.

2. Pet Costume Parade

For those pets who don’t mind dressing up, a pet costume parade can be a great way to celebrate! You can invite a few friends over with their pets and host your very own parade right in your living room—or, if the weather clears, in your backyard. Remember, the key to a successful pet costume is comfort. Make sure the costume allows your pet to move freely, breathe easily, and doesn’t have any small pieces they could chew on or choke on.

Here are some fun costume ideas:

  • Classic Pumpkin: A soft, orange vest or cape makes for a simple and adorable pumpkin costume.

  • Superhero Pet: A cape and a small emblem on your pet’s collar can turn them into the hero of the day.

  • Rain-Ready Cutie: With Monmouth's rainy forecast, how about a raincoat costume? It’s practical, keeps them dry, and can be paired with a cute hat or matching boots for extra flair!

If your pet isn’t a fan of costumes, no problem! Consider a festive bandana or a lightweight hat they can wear for a few minutes at a time.

3. Halloween Movie Night

If your pet would rather snuggle up than go on an adventure, why not host a Halloween movie night? Grab some cozy blankets, your favorite spooky (but not too scary!) films, and whip up some pet-friendly treats. Dogs and cats will love snuggling with you while you enjoy the holiday from the comfort of home. You can even make a themed snack board for both you and your pet—think pumpkin dog biscuits or a catnip-infused "spooky mouse" toy for the kitties.

4. DIY Pet Treats

Halloween is the perfect time to whip up some special treats for your pets. You can make pumpkin-based dog biscuits, homemade jerky, or even freeze a mixture of yogurt and peanut butter for a special snack. For cats, try a simple treat made of canned tuna and a little oat flour, baked into tiny, crunchy morsels. These homemade goodies are not only healthier than store-bought treats but can also be a fun, festive activity to do together with your pet.

5. Keep Halloween Candy Out of Paw’s Reach

With all the Halloween treats around, it’s important to keep candy safely stored away from your pets. Chocolate, sugar-free gum, and candies containing xylitol can be extremely harmful to dogs and other pets. Make sure your pet can't access candy left in bowls, bags, or scattered by trick-or-treaters.

If your pet accidentally ingests something toxic, contact your vet immediately or call the Pet Poison Helpline. Signs of poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or changes in behavior. Prevention is key, but knowing what to do in case of an emergency is just as important!

No matter how you choose to celebrate Halloween with your pet, make sure it’s fun and safe for them. The spooky season should be filled with treats and good memories, not stress. And remember—always keep candy out of reach and be mindful of your pet's comfort level when including them in holiday activities.

Enjoy a fun, festive Halloween with your pets!


Sources:

American Kennel Club - Halloween Safety Tips for Dogs

PetMD - Halloween Safety for Pets

4 views

Comments


Commenting has been turned off.
bottom of page