Halloween is a favorite fall tradition filled with costumes, candy, and festive fun, but it can also bring hidden risks for pets. At Veterinary Emergency Referral Center (VERC), your trusted 24-hour animal hospital in Pensacola, we want to help keep your four-legged family members safe and comfortable during the spooky season.

Here are some important Halloween hazards every pet owner should watch out for:

1. Candy Is a Trick, Not a Treat

The sweets that fill candy bowls and trick-or-treat bags may seem tempting to pets, but many are dangerous or even life-threatening.

• Chocolate (especially dark and baking chocolate) contains theobromine, which dogs and cats can’t process safely.

• Xylitol, a sugar substitute in many “sugar-free” candies and gums, can cause severe drops in blood sugar and even liver failure in dogs.

• Raisins, sometimes offered as a “healthier” Halloween snack, can trigger kidney failure in dogs.

Safety tip: Store candy well out of paw’s reach and remind children not to share their loot. If your pet eats something questionable, call VERC, your Pensacola emergency vet, right away.

2. Decorate with Caution

Halloween décor sets the mood, but it can pose hazards for curious pets:

• Open flames from candles or jack-o’-lanterns can cause burns or start fires if knocked over.

• Glow sticks aren’t highly toxic, but chewing them can make pets drool, gag, or become agitated.

• Tinsel, cobwebs, and string lights can be dangerous if ingested, leading to choking or intestinal blockages.

Safety tip: Swap real candles for LED alternatives and keep small or stringy decorations out of reach.

3. Minimize Doorway Dangers

The steady flow of trick-or-treaters can be stressful or frightening for pets. Costumes, doorbells, and constant activity can lead to:

• Heightened anxiety or fear

• Door-dashing escapes

• Fear-based aggression

Safety tip: Set up a cozy retreat for your pet in a quiet room with familiar bedding, toys, or calming background noise.

4. Florida-Friendly Reminders

Since Pensacola Halloween nights can still be warm and humid, pets may become overheated if they’re outside in costumes or crowded trick-or-treating areas. Additionally, the excitement of the evening can increase the risk of pets slipping out or encountering neighborhood wildlife.

Safety tip: If your pet joins you outside, keep costumes lightweight and breathable, and always supervise them. Make sure collars, ID tags, and microchips are up to date in case of accidental escapes.

5. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Even with precautions, accidents can happen. Contact Veterinary Emergency Referral Center in Pensacola immediately if your pet experiences:

• Vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite

• Sudden weakness or collapse

• Seizures, tremors, or difficulty breathing

• Signs of eating decorations, wrappers, or toxic foods

Our hospital is open 24/7, including holidays, to provide urgent care whenever your pet needs it most.

A Safe & Happy Halloween

With a little preparation, your pets can stay safe while your family enjoys the holiday. From all of us at VERC, Pensacola’s 24-hour emergency animal hospital, we wish you and your furry friends a safe and happy Halloween!