For many pets, new objects and decorations around the house and yard are just new things to investigate. Cords, wires, and jack-o-lanterns can be a potential fire hazard or cause serious burns if chewed or knocked over. Be careful to place them so that your pet cannot access them or knock them over. Also keep your inquisitive chewer away from yard decorations that have small parts that can be chewed off and swallowed.

Almost all candy can be toxic to your pets. Chocolate is a big danger for your pet because it contains Theobromine, a naturally occurring stimulant in the cocoa bean. It affects the central nervous system and the heart, and is toxic in sufficient quantities. Artificial sweeteners, such as Xylitol can be downright deadly to your pet. Found in chewing gum and candy, Xylitol, even in small quantities, is absorbed quickly and causes a release of enzymes which causes blood sugar levels to drop. Pets can become very lethargic and can have seizures. The sweetener also destroys liver tissue and can cause internal bleeding. While the contents of treats can be dangerous to you pet, they also aren’t going to go through all the trouble of unwrapping them, so the wrapping can also become a choking hazard. So please err on the side of caution and keep all candy and treats out of your pets’ reach.

A constant influx of vampires, zombies and assorted monsters banging at your door and making loud noises could cause a lot of stress to most pets. If your pet doesn’t have the temperament for it or you won’t be able to properly supervise, it’s better to keep your pet in a room where it doesn’t have to deal with all the commotion. Turn on the radio to 91.5 (Classical Music) or use a white noise generator or air purifier to provide a sound buffer for your anxious pet. A perpetually opening door could also be an opportunity to escape for those that like to run, so be on guard if your pet won’t be locked away in another room.

People aren’t the only one’s wearing costumes these days. If you have a costume for your pet, please make sure s/he is comfortable and calm while wearing it. It can be stressful to have a tight fitting costume if your pet isn’t used to it. Also be sure there aren’t any buttons, beads or other small adornments that your dog can chew and possibly choke on.