Halloween night is filled with spooky costumes, tasty treats, and neighborhood cheer. The air is crisp, leaves are falling, the neighborhood is decorated, and the bowl of candy is ready. Though, for our furry family members a constantly ringing doorbell, glowing costumes, and continuous strangers knocking can feel like a full blown home invasion.
The unexpected noises and door repeatedly opening can make Halloween night become a high risk for runaway pets. A little strategic thinking can help you plan ahead before the very first goblin or ghoul arrives. Transform a potentially high stress evening into a cozy fall night of staying in with your furry pal while still enjoying the smiles of the neighborhood trick-or-treaters!
Burn Off the Extra Energy
A tired pet is naturally a calmer pet! Plan a fun Halloween outing to grab a new seasonal chew toy or extend the backyard play time with your dog well before dusk. For cats, engaging them in a feather wand chase or laser play session can help wear them out. Getting their heart pumping earlier in the day will help burn some nervous energy lowering their baseline stress levels. Making them want to curl up and doze off by the fire a bit earlier than normal, helping them feel exhausted before the trick-or-treating rush begins.
Mask the Spooky Sounds
Plenty of spooky masks will be arriving at your door, but by masking the sounds of those sudden ding-dongs and loud knocks you can often lower your pets stress level. Drowning out the commotion with a noise machine, radio, or even the TV for you to watch snuggled on the sofa together while waiting on the trick-or-treaters can help muffle the triggering noise of the doorbell and knocking. If your pet is highly stressed by the door or strangers being on the steps, think about placing a note asking trick-or-treaters not to knock or ring, but welcoming them to take candy from the bowl on the porch or in the driveway.
Create a Safe Sanctuary
Instead of the normal free range your pet may have, try to think about safety first. Setting up baby gates to keep them from a bustling entryway filled with witches and goblins. This can help ensure your trick-or-treaters get the treat they desire, and not a good scare when your stressed four-legged family member rushes out an opening door! If you notice your fur baby is still stressed despite all your best efforts, think about moving them into a bedroom that’s quiet, with their favorite bed, toys, and plenty of water. Be sure the curtains are drawn to avoid flashing lights, spooky shadows, and scary costumes that may startle them from the window.
Halloween is all about creating a fun environment with good memories. That includes making our pets feel safe while the neighborhood celebrates. Keeping your fur baby calm isn’t magic...it just takes a little festive planning. Pop that popcorn, load the candy bowl, turn on your favorite Halloween classic, and enjoy the hauntingly peaceful evening snuggled up with your favorite furry ghost buster!
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