Halloween is full of fun surprises—spooky decorations, creative costumes, and, of course, mountains of candy. But while the treats might thrill your kids, they can be dangerous for your furry family members.
Chocolate, xylitol (a sugar substitute), raisins, and even certain types of nuts are toxic to pets, especially dogs and cats. Unfortunately, curious noses often sniff out sweet-smelling treats left in trick-or-treat buckets or scattered on the floor. Even small amounts of chocolate can cause serious health issues like vomiting, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, or seizures.
To keep your pets safe this Halloween:
- Store candy out of reach—high shelves and closed containers are your best friend.
- Remind kids not to share their treats with pets, no matter how convincing those puppy-dog eyes are.
- Watch for dropped wrappers or candy pieces during and after trick-or-treating.
- Keep emergency vet numbers handy, just in case.
- If you suspect your pet has eaten something toxic, don’t wait—contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately.
With just a few precautions, you can make Halloween a safe and happy night for everyone in your household—two-legged and four-legged alike!
