Halloween seems to get bigger and bigger every year. Have you noticed? Even in pet stores, the costumes start showing up earlier and earlier and there are more of them. And, yes, dressing up your dog and going out in the evening to walk and talk and people watch is super fun. But there are some things to keep in mind to make sure you have a safe Halloween for your dog.
Not to be buzz kills, but there are plenty of things to consider around this time of year. There are plenty of ways you and your dog could have a not-great Halloween. So let’s avoid that.
Costumes
Does your dog really like that costume or are you just loving the photos you can take? Really pay attention to your dog’s body language when you dress them up. If they’re clearly telling you no, you have a few options.
First, you could just not, of course. Second, you could dress them up very briefly to get those coveted photos. Third, there are plenty of festive bandanas that would also do the trick.
If your dog is very tolerant of costumes, keep the following in mind:
- Look for things that dangle that your dog could chew or try to swallow.
- Is the costume interfering with their vision? This will make them nervous and more prone to act out.
- Does the costume limit their movement in any way?
- Check around their neck and make sure they have plenty of room.
Go here to check out some cute and fun options.
Food concerns
Those treats are likely not treats for your dog. If you have a big bowl of chocolate candy that you’re using for trick or treaters, make sure when you’re not using it that it’s out of reach.
If you’re walking around outside, make sure your dog is not snuffling around in people’s candy bags and plastic pumpkins. Keep a really good eye on your dog.
Also, pumpkins – the live ones and not the plastic ones – are not for your dog. They aren’t considered toxic for dogs, but they could still create digestive distress and who wants that? Especially on a holiday!
Identification
Verify that your dog has easy to see identification on them, whether you’re going out or not. If you’re staying home, very likely the front door will be opening a lot. And with all of the different people and sounds, your dog might be spooked enough to run. Even if they never have before.
Miscellaneous things to consider
- Even if you have a very social and people friendly dog, holidays can be stressful and create out-of-their-norm behavior. Keep a close eye for signs of stress.
- Unless you have been taking your dog trick or treating since they were small and they are basically trained for it, most dogs would likely appreciate staying home and having a quiet evening.
- Perhaps consider putting your dog in a safe room for the duration of the festivities.
- Watch out for glow sticks. Though most are non toxic, they are still not something you want your dog eating or chewing on.
- Keep candles out of reach, as well as any extra electrical chords you have for decorations.
- Look over your decorations for anything that might attract a dog’s chewing.
And just as a seasonal reminder, here’s a list of human foods that are toxic for your dog.