TORONTO, ON / AGILITYPR.NEWS / October 21, 2025 / Halloween is just around the corner, bringing costumes, trick-or-treaters, festive decorations and plenty of sweet treats. As families across Toronto look forward to the festivities, Toronto Humane Society is reminding pet parents that some Halloween traditions can be frightening—or even dangerous—for our pets. 

From a constantly ringing doorbell and unfamiliar visitors to tempting candy and elaborate decorations, Halloween can bring plenty of excitement into the home. A little preparation can help ensure everyone in the family enjoys a safe and comfortable night. 

“Halloween can be a lot of fun, and there are plenty of ways to include our pets in the celebration, but it’s important to celebrate on their terms,” says Dr. Karen Ward, Chief Veterinary Officer at Toronto Humane Society. “Some pets may enjoy greeting visitors or wearing a comfortable costume, while others would much rather spend the evening somewhere quiet. Paying attention to their behaviour and giving them choices can help make Halloween a positive experience.” 

Keep Halloween Fun, Not Frightening 

Toronto Humane Society recommends a few simple precautions: 

• Keep the candy bowl out of reach: Chocolate, raisins and products containing xylitol can be dangerous for pets. Keep Halloween treats safely stored away and offer pet-friendly treats instead. 
• Costumes should be comfortable: If your pet enjoys dressing up, choose a costume that allows them to move, see and breathe normally. Avoid small pieces that could become choking hazards, and never force a costume on an uncomfortable pet. A festive bandana can be an easy alternative. 
• Create a quiet retreat: Doorbells, knocking, costumes and a steady stream of strangers can be overwhelming. Give pets access to a quiet, comfortable room away from the front door if they need a break. 
• Watch the front door: With trick-or-treaters coming and going, there may be more opportunities for pets to slip outside. Keep pets secure and make sure identification and microchip information are up to date. 
• Decorate with care: Pumpkins, candles, electrical cords and small decorations can pose risks to curious pets. Consider flameless candles and keep decorations that could be chewed or swallowed safely out of reach. 
• Be visible after dark: If your dog joins you outside, keep them securely leashed and consider reflective or light-up gear to help make them visible to drivers, cyclists and other pedestrians. 

Give a Boo Basket to a Pet in Need 

Once the decorations are safely secured and the candy is out of reach, there’s another way to make Halloween special for animals. 

Toronto Humane Society’s Boo Basket campaign gives people the opportunity to send some Halloween joy to pets at the shelter and support animals across the community. Each Boo Basket donation helps provide treats, toys and lifesaving veterinary care to animals who need it. 

“Boo Baskets are a fun way to celebrate Halloween while making a meaningful difference,” adds Dr. Ward. “Your support helps us provide animals with the care, comfort and enrichment they need as they prepare for their next chapter.” 

To learn more or purchase a Boo Basket, visit TorontoHumaneSociety.com/BooBasket