5 Tips for a Spooktacular (and Stress-Free) Halloween with Your Pets

Halloween is filled with fun, costumes, and sweet treats, but for our four-legged residents, it can sometimes feel a little more tricks than treats! Between the frequent knocks at the door, strange costumes, and tempting chocolate wrappers, late October can be stressful for pets.
 
Because we pride ourselves on being a truly pet-friendly community, we want to make sure every member of your family enjoys a comfortable autumn. Here are five simple ways to keep your pets calm and healthy this Halloween in your apartment:
 

• Create a Cozy Quiet Zone: Set up a comfortable retreat in a back bedroom or a quiet corner of your open-concept living space. Fill it with their favorite blanket, a crate (if they use one), and plenty of toys to muffle the sound of footsteps in the hallway.
• Keep the Treats Out of Reach: Chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free candy), and colorful wrappers are highly toxic to dogs and cats. Keep your candy bowls high up on your kitchen counters or secured in your pantry.
• Ditch the Costume If They Hate It: While a dog in a pumpkin suit is undeniably cute, if your pet freezes, shakes, or tries to chew the outfit off, it’s best to let them stay in their "birthday suit." Opt for a festive Halloween bandana instead!
• Watch the Door: If you are opening your door to hand out candy or greeting neighbors, keep a close eye on your pet. Slip a leash on them or secure them in another room to prevent them from slipping past you into the breezeway.
• Burn Off Energy Early: Take advantage of the crisp October air and head out for a long walk around our pet-friendly grounds before the evening festivities begin. A tired pet is a calm pet!