How to Keep Your Pet Calm During Halloween Fireworks and Trick-or-Treaters

by Grace Briggs

Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year — full of costumes, decorations, and treats. But while we enjoy the festivities, our pets often see things very differently.

The loud fireworks, constant doorbell rings, flashing lights, and unfamiliar costumes can be confusing and frightening for animals. Dogs may bark excessively or hide; cats might run for cover and refuse to eat. Even small pets like rabbits or guinea pigs can become stressed by sudden noises and changes in routine.

The good news? With a bit of planning, you can make Halloween a fun and fear-free night for everyone in your household - paws included. Here’s a complete guide to keeping your pet calm, safe, and happy this Halloween.

Create a Safe, Cosy Sanctuary

Start by setting up a quiet retreat for your pet before the festivities begin. Choose a room away from the front door and windows, where outside noises are muffled.

For Dogs:

  • Place their favourite bed or blanket in a corner where they feel secure.

  • Add a few comfort items - like a favourite toy or long-lasting chew — to help keep them occupied.

  • Consider using a crate if your dog is crate-trained, as it can feel like a natural den.

Rosewood Grey Jumbo Cord/Plush Oval Dog Bed £17.89 and KONG Dog Toy Scrumplez Bunny £11.39

For Cats:

  • Cats often prefer to hide up high or in enclosed spaces. A covered cat bed, cat cave, or even a sturdy cardboard box lined with a blanket can do wonders.

  • Draw the curtains and keep the lights dim for a sense of calm.

Ancol Plush Cat Pyramid £18.49 and Rosewood Grey Teddy Bear Hooded Cat Bed 38cm £20.79

Pro Tip: Play calming music, white noise, or pet-specific relaxation playlists (available on Spotify or YouTube). The consistent background sound helps mask fireworks and doorbells.

Get Your Pet Used to Halloween Sounds

If your pet is especially sensitive to loud noises, gradual desensitisation can help. A few days before Halloween, play recordings of fireworks or doorbells at a low volume while offering treats or praise. Slowly increase the volume over several days, always keeping the experience positive.

This technique teaches your pet that these sounds aren’t threats — just part of the background.

Keep Sweets and Decorations Out of Reach

Halloween sweets and pets don’t mix. Many treats contain ingredients that are toxic to animals, including:

  • Chocolate – especially dark and baking chocolate.

  • Xylitol – a sugar substitute found in sugar-free candies and gum.

  • Raisins – common in baked goods, dangerous for dogs.

Make sure sweet bowls, trick-or-treat bags, and wrappers are kept out of reach. Dispose of wrappers in a pet-proof bin to avoid choking hazards.

Instead, give your pet something safe and festive to enjoy.

Innocent Hound Air Dried Wild Game Sausages with Pumpkin and Cinnamon £7.39

Manage the Doorbell Madness

Trick-or-treaters can be the most stressful part of Halloween for pets. The constant knocking, doorbell ringing, and excited voices can be overwhelming.

Here’s how to reduce anxiety:

  • Keep your pet in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treat hours.

  • If possible, greet visitors outside instead of letting the doorbell ring repeatedly.

  • Use a white noise machine or leave the TV on to help mask outside sounds.

  • Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with ID tags and that their microchip information is up to date - just in case they dart out the door in a moment of fear.

Try Calming Products and Natural Aids

If your pet is prone to anxiety, consider using natural calming products or comfort aids. These can help them stay relaxed without sedation. Options include:

  • Calming treats or chews with ingredients like chamomile, valerian root, or L-theanine.

  • Pheromone sprays or diffusers that mimic natural calming scents.

  • Anxiety wraps or vests that apply gentle, reassuring pressure (like a hug).

Thundershirt Stress & Anxiety Relief Coat For Dogs £34.19 and Adaptil Dog Calming Chews Pack Of 30 £30.64

Tire Them Out Before Nightfall

Exercise is one of the best natural stress relievers. Take your dog for a long walk or have a vigorous play session earlier in the day to help them burn off excess energy. A tired pet is a calm pet.

For indoor pets like cats or rabbits, engage them with enrichment toys or a short play session before sunset. Activities that stimulate their mind and body can make them more likely to nap through the noisy hours.

Make Costumes Fun - Not Frightening

We love seeing pets in adorable Halloween outfits, but not every animal enjoys wearing them. Before dressing up your furry friend:

  • Try the costume on in advance to make sure it fits properly.

  • Avoid costumes that cover their face, restrict movement, or have small parts they could chew off.

  • Watch for signs of discomfort - if your pet seems stressed, it’s better to skip the costume and opt for a festive collar or bandana instead.

Keep the Routine (Mostly) Normal

Animals thrive on routine. Try to keep feeding times, walks, and play sessions as close to normal as possible. Predictability gives your pet a sense of security when everything else feels chaotic.

If you expect lots of visitors, plan bathroom breaks for dogs earlier in the evening - before the doorbell starts ringing or fireworks begin.

After the Festivities

Once the night is over, check your garden or home for leftover sweet wrappers, glow sticks, or costume pieces that could be hazardous. Give your pet some extra cuddles and treats for getting through the night bravely.

If your pet continues to show signs of anxiety (trembling, hiding, refusing food), speak with your veterinarian - they can help determine if long-term support or behavioural training would help.

A Little Preparation Makes All the Difference

Halloween doesn’t have to be a nightmare for your pets. By preparing in advance and creating a calm environment, you can help them feel safe and secure - even when the night gets loud and lively.

Whether it’s calming treats, cosy beds, or fun seasonal toys, we’ve got everything you need to help your pet enjoy a peaceful Halloween night.

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