Halloween Safety Tips
🎃 Keeping Pets Safe on Halloween: Tips from Rideout’s Furst Aid
Halloween is a time for costumes, candy, and celebration — but for our furry family members, it can also bring unexpected stress and safety risks. Between the strange sights, loud noises, and tempting treats, it’s easy for pets to get frightened or into something they shouldn’t.
At Rideout’s Furst Aid, we believe that being prepared is the best treat of all. When we understand the potential hazards, we can keep our pets safe, calm, and happy during the spooky season.
🕯️ 1. Beware of Candy & Treat Hazards
The biggest Halloween danger for pets is often hiding in the candy bowl.
Many popular sweets can be toxic to animals:
Chocolate – Contains theobromine and caffeine, both toxic to dogs and cats.
Xylitol – A sugar substitute found in sugar-free gum, candy, and even some peanut butters; it can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar.
Raisins and grapes – Even small amounts can lead to kidney failure in dogs.
Candy wrappers – Foil or plastic can cause choking or intestinal blockages.
🦴Tip: Keep all candy and treats out of reach, and remind kids (and guests!) not to share human treats with pets.
👻 2. Costume Safety Comes First
Dressing up your pet can be adorable — but only if your pet is comfortable and safe.
Before putting on a costume, make sure:
It fits properly (not too tight or restrictive).
Your pet can breathe, move, and see easily.
There are no dangling pieces that could be chewed off or swallowed.
If your pet seems anxious or uncomfortable, skip the costume and opt for a festive bandana instead!
🕸️ 3. Keep Decorations Pet-Friendly
Spooky decorations can be fun for us, but dangerous for curious pets.
Jack-o’-lanterns with real candles pose a fire hazard if knocked over.
Glow sticks and fake spider webs can cause stomach upset or entanglement.
Electric cords from lights or animatronics can lead to burns or shocks if chewed.
🎃 Tip: Opt for battery-operated candles and place decorations out of your pet’s reach.
🚪 4. Minimize Doorway Stress
Trick-or-treaters ringing the doorbell all night can make even the calmest pets anxious. The constant commotion can also increase the risk of pets slipping out the door.
To keep your pet safe:
Set up a quiet, comfortable room away from the front door.
Play soft music or use a white noise machine to help mask the sounds.
Make sure your pet’s ID tags and microchip info are up to date — just in case they do get out.
💚 5. Be Ready for the Unexpected
Even with precautions, accidents can happen — from a swallowed treat to a spooked pet running off. Knowing how to respond calmly and correctly can make all the difference.
That’s why we offer hands-on Pet First Aid & CPR classes, where pet parents and professionals learn how to handle emergencies with confidence.
Because when it comes to our pets, preparedness isn’t scary — it’s empowering.
🦸♀️ Be Your Pet’s Superhero This Halloween
Halloween is a night for fun, but it doesn’t have to be frightening for our pets. With a little awareness, preparation, and knowledge, you can ensure a safe and happy holiday for everyone — paws included! Visit rideoutsfurstaid.com to book a class.
