10/22/2026
Chocolate, costumes, and a doorbell that will not quit. Let us get ahead of it. 🎃🐾
Halloween is a Saturday this year, so here’s your pet safety checklist before the weekend gets busy:
🍫 Candy stays out of reach. Chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats, and the darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is. Watch for xylitol (sometimes labeled “birch sugar”) in sugar-free gum, mints, and candy. Even a small amount can be very dangerous for dogs. Keep the candy bowl up high and check what the kids bring home.
👻 Costumes should fit and stay comfortable. Your pet should be able to see, breathe, bark, and move freely. Watch for straps that rub and small pieces they could chew off. It’s still warm in Ormond Beach, so watch for panting and overheating. A festive bandana works just as well as a full costume.
🏷️ Check ID tags now. With the door opening all night, a nervous pet can slip out fast. Make sure tags are on, readable, and have your current phone number. If your pet is microchipped, confirm your contact info is up to date.
🔔 Plan for the doorbell. Lots of strangers, masks, and ringing can stress even a calm pet. Set up a quiet room with water, a favorite toy, and a long-lasting chew before trick-or-treaters start arriving.
🐈⬛ Keep cats indoors Halloween night. Bring outdoor cats in before dark and keep them in until the next morning.
If your pet eats something it shouldn’t, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (a fee may apply). Save the number in your phone now.
Need treats, chews, or a new collar before the big night? Stop by. We’re happy to help. 🧡