Tenafly Veterinary Center & Overpeck Creek Animal Hospital

Halloween Pet Safety Tips

The leaves are changes and pumpkins are popping up all over doorsteps here in Northern New Jersey, and the air is filled with an air of excitement - Halloween is just around the corner! While it's a thrilling time for us, it can be a bit overwhelming for our furry friends. With costumes, decorations, and candy everywhere, it's important to keep our pets safe during the festivities. In this article, we'll share some essential Halloween pet safety tips to ensure a howling good time for your cats and dogs.

Choose Pet-Friendly Costumes

If you're planning on dressing up your pet, opt for costumes that are comfortable and safe. Tenafly-halloween.jpg Ensure that the costume doesn't obstruct their movement, breathing, or hearing. Avoid costumes with small, detachable parts that could be swallowed, and always supervise them while they're wearing their outfits.

Pumpkin Precautions

Jack-o'-lanterns are a quintessential Halloween decoration, but they can pose a danger to your pets. Curious cats and dogs may investigate the flickering light and could accidentally knock over a candle. Instead, consider using battery-operated LED lights for a safer alternative. Looking for the best pumpkin patches in New Jersey? Check out this list!

Secure Your Candy Stash

Halloween candy is not for our four-legged friends. Chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and some candies), and certain types of candy wrappers can be toxic to pets. Keep all sweets and treats out of their reach and securely stored in a high cabinet or closed container. Looking for other opportunities for Halloween treats? Check out the North New Jersey Trunk or Treat - perfect for smaller children and those not wanting to walk long blocks.

Beware of Decorations

Ghoulish decorations can be intriguing to pets, but some of them can be hazardous. Fake cobwebs, glow sticks, and small decorations can pose choking hazards or be harmful if ingested. Keep decorations elevated and out of your pet's reach.

Quiet Time for Nervous Nellies

Halloween can be a noisy and chaotic night, which may be unsettling for some pets. Create a quiet and comfortable space where they can retreat if they start to feel anxious. Provide familiar toys and bedding to help them feel secure. Looking for some low-key local fun? The North Bergen Main Library is hosting a free Halloween celebration on October 27th .

Keep Them Indoors

With the increased foot traffic and excitement outside, it's best to keep your pets indoors during Halloween night. This will not only prevent them from getting spooked or stressed but also protects them from potential hazards or pranks. And if attending big Halloween events, leave your pets at home.

ID Tags and Microchipping

Ensure that your pet's ID tags are up-to-date with current contact information. Halloween can be a time when pets may become frightened and bolt. Having a microchip with updated information provides an added layer of security.

Hours of Operation

Phone: 201-292-4949

  • Monday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Thursday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Friday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

Accepting day-time emergencies. Hablamos Español!

Overpeck Creek location icon

Bogota, NJ


101 E. Main Street

Bogota, NJ 07603

201-292-4949

Tenafly Veterinary location icon

Tenafly, NJ


38 Piermont Road

Tenafly, NJ 07670

201-567-7878

Hours of Operation

Phone: 201-567-7878

  • Monday: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Thursday: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

Accepting day-time emergencies. Hablamos Español!