Halloween is a time for fun and creativity but it can also bring hidden hazards for pets and wildlife. With a few mindful choices, we can make the season enjoyable and safe for everyone.
- Keep Cats Indoors
Halloween night can be stressful for cats, especially with increased noise, activity, and traffic. Keeping them inside helps protect them from getting scared, lost, or injured. - Leave Dogs at Home When Trick-or-Treating
Even friendly dogs can become anxious around costumes, crowds, and sudden noises. It’s safer and less stressful to let them stay home with a favorite toy or treat. - Be Cautious with Decorations
Jack-o’-lanterns, candles, and electrical cords can cause burns, fires, or shocks. Keep all decorations well out of reach of pets and wildlife, and use battery-operated lights whenever possible. - Keep Candy Away from Pets
Chocolate and many candies (especially those containing xylitol) are toxic to dogs and cats. Even wrappers can cause intestinal blockages. Store candy securely and dispose of packaging properly. - Costumes Are Optional
If your pet enjoys dressing up, keep it simple! Avoid restrictive outfits and never leave a costumed animal unattended. Always watch for signs of stress or discomfort. - Ensure Pets Have Proper ID
If a startled pet slips out the door, a visible tag and microchip can make all the difference in bringing them home safely. - Don’t Feed Wildlife and Dispose of Pumpkins Properly
While it might seem kind to share leftovers or leave pumpkins outdoors “for the animals,” this can do more harm than good. Feeding wildlife changes natural behavior. Animals begin to associate humans and homes with food, increasing the risk of vehicle collisions, property damage, and conflict. Artificial food sources can cause illness. Many human foods are too rich or processed for wild animals and can lead to malnutrition or digestive problems.
Pumpkins left outside attract unwanted wildlife. Deer, raccoons, rats, and coyotes are drawn to decaying pumpkins and food waste. This can disrupt natural foraging habits and bring animals dangerously close to neighbourhoods. Proper disposal matters. Compost pumpkins in a secure bin or green waste system not in open spaces or forested areas. This helps prevent food conditioning and supports healthy ecosystems.
By making thoughtful choices this Halloween, we can keep our pets, wildlife, and communities safe and healthy. Let’s celebrate with compassion, awareness, and respect for all living beings. For more information about canid coexistence visit Coyote Watch Canada.com.
