Paws, Pumpkins, and Precautions: Volusia County Animal Services Promotes Halloween Pet Safety

Posted On: October 27, 2026

Halloween may bring costumes, candy, and excitement for families, but it can also bring unexpected dangers and added stress for household pets. As residents prepare for trick-or-treaters and seasonal celebrations, Volusia County Animal Services (VCAS) is encouraging pet owners to take a few simple steps to protect their four-legged companions.

From potentially harmful candy and decorations to frequent doorbell ringing and unfamiliar visitors, the festivities can introduce hazards that owners may not immediately recognize. A few moments of preparation can help prevent accidental escapes, injuries, and unnecessary stress. To help residents keep their pets safe throughout the holiday, VCAS recommends the following precautions:

• Keep candy out of reach: Chocolate and sugar-free candy containing xylitol can be toxic to pets. Store Halloween treats securely, and keep candy wrappers out of reach of curious animals.
• Prevent accidental escapes: Frequent doorbell ringing and visitors approaching the home can frighten pets or create opportunities for them to slip outside. Consider keeping animals in a quiet, comfortable room away from the front door during trick-or-treating hours.
• Plan outdoor breaks early: Take dogs for a walk and give them an opportunity to exercise and relieve themselves before trick-or-treating begins. This can help minimize the need to take them outside when neighborhood activity is at its busiest.
• Make costumes comfortable: If you dress pets for Halloween, choose costumes that don't restrict their movement, breathing, hearing, or vision. Watch for signs of discomfort, and don't force animals to wear costumes.
• Watch out for decorations: Place electrical cords, candles, glow sticks, and small decorations where animals cannot access them to prevent burns, choking, and other potential injuries.
• Check identification: Make sure pets wear collars with current identification tags and that their microchip contact information is up to date. Proper identification can help reunite owners with their animals if they become lost.

Pet owners should also remain attentive to changes in their animals' behavior throughout the evening. Excessive barking, hiding, pacing, or other signs of distress may indicate that an animal is overwhelmed by the increased activity. If these behaviors occur, owners should allow their pets to retreat from the excitement.

Halloween should be an enjoyable occasion for the entire family, including its four-legged members. By recognizing potential hazards and remaining mindful of their pets' needs, residents can help ensure the holiday brings more treats than tricks for everyone.