Halloween is the time of year when some of us love to party and dress up our dogs in cute costumes. Perhaps someone in your community is hosting a doggy Halloween party.
That sweet little Yorkie in a ghost outfit or the pudgy Pug in a ladybug costume could well be the cutest thing you’ve ever laid eyes on. The German Shepherd in a cowgirl costume and the Dachshund dressed up as a hot dog can be adorable. Other popular doggy costumes include bumblebees, policemen, and pumpkins.
Choosing Costumes
Many dogs love the attention they get when dressed up, however those who do not like wearing costumes will be extremely stressed. When choosing a Halloween costume for your dog, make sure that it:
- does not bind
- does not obstruct breathing, movement, sight or hearing
- does not cause overheating
- does not have items that can choke or poison a dog if he swallows them.
- has reflectors - if your dog accidentally escapes, it may save him from being hit by a car
Rubber bands should be removed right away as they can quickly cut into an animal’s skin.
Fright Causes Dogs to Escape
Dogs who are typically well-behaved may perceive Halloween guests as intruders or feel threatened by so many strange noises and costumes. Be careful that he doesn’t escape when you open your door to trick-or-treaters. Consider keeping him in another room, crated, or on a leash. Make sure your pet is wearing ID, just in case.
Halloween Candy
Halloween means candy everywhere but you must keep it, especially chocolate, and all wrappers away from pets. They can cause choking, intestinal blockages or poisoning. Alcohol from adult parties is dangerous for pets also. Give your dog a chew toy or a doggy treat so he won’t feel left out of the fun. If you notice any symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, tremors, seizures, or any strange behavior call your veterinarian immediately.
General Halloween Safety for Your Dog
Do not leave your dog outside on Halloween. Well meaning trick-or-treaters may offer outside pets a treat that can make them sick, or they may tease them, not understanding that they do not appreciate the holidays the way children do. Cruel pranksters sometimes frighten, hurt, steal or even kill pets on this holiday. Black, white, or black and white pets are especially vulnerable. Most shelters will not adopt out animals of these colors during the entire month of October.
If you walk your dog during Halloween, be vigilant of what he may pick up along the path.
Keep small costume items, synthetic spider webs, and makeup away from your dog. These may be toxic or cause choking or intestinal blockage if swallowed.
Keep your dog away from jack-o-lanterns. A curious pooch can get a terrible nose burn while a wagging tail can knock the pumpkin over and start a fire.
Just a few simple, common-sense precautions can keep Halloween fun for both you and your dog!
Related Reading:
Puppies and Intestinal Parasites
 |
 |
