Who doesn’t love Halloween?  Little kids dressed up as their favorite character, lots of chocolate and Fall fun for the entire family – including the family pet!  From pet costumes to themed treats for pets, Halloween is a time for fun – but it is also a time to provide protection for our pets.

First, let’s talk pet costumes – yes, they can be adorable.  Have you ever seen a Dachshund dressed as a hot dog? – makes me chuckle every time.  If your dog has been acclimated to wearing sweaters he’ll likely readily adapt to wearing a costume – as long as it doesn’t interrupt his vision or hearing.  Not all pets appreciate the costumes as much as we do – so understand that if he doesn’t like it – don’t force the issue.  Stressing out the family pet is not a good idea.  

This time of year Halloween Candy seems to be everywhere and is very tempting – not only to us, but also the family pet.  Chocolate can prove to be a toxic substance for pets – especially when consumed in volume.  Chewing gum, metallic and plastic wrappers are also a hazard as they can clump up and block your pet’s digestive system.  Be cautious with candy – make sure not to leave it in an accessible spot - your pet might not be able to resist the temptation.  Store candy out of reach in a cabinet or sealed container.  

Ringing doorbells and costumed children can also cause stress in the family pet.  If your dog barks at the doorbell, like mine do, you will want to confine him on Halloween night.  This will allow the pet to feel safe and you can rest easy knowing that he won’t run out the front door or jump on the neighborhood children.  Place your pet’s crate in a quite room with a distraction, radio or television work well.  For those pets that are full of anxiety, you can partially cover the crate to create more of a den.  Soft lighting helps calm them as well.  Reassure your pet with a calm, soothing voice.  As a responsible pet owner, you must also know that if something causes that level of anxiety in your dog, you may want to forego the events altogether.  There is nothing wrong with turning out the lights and deciding not to participate in Halloween.  

When you take the dog out – go out with him.  Keep an eye on your pet – especially during Halloween.  We all know that there are people out there who do not value our pets as much as we do.  It is common to hear stories of pets being abused, poisoned, kidnapped and even killed during Halloween.  Go out with your pet, spend quality time, and if you don’t have a fenced backyard, keep your dog on a leash.  Keep a close watch – remember - better safe than sorry.  

Halloween is meant to be a fun enjoyable experience and there is no reason that your pet can’t join in the festivities.  A little pre-planning and common sense will help both of you enjoy a fun filled evening!  Happy Halloween!    

Pet Safety Advocate – Lindsey Wolko