Halloween safety for dogs

Here’s are some tips to keep your dog and your family safe and happy during the Halloween fun.

• I know it’s tempting, but don’t take your dog trick-or-treating. Most dogs don’t enjoy it as much as we think they will.
• If you’re walking your dog during trick-or-treating hours, don’t walk him up to anyone, even if you know the person. He may not recognize them with a costume on.
• Only dress your dog up if he’s already very comfortable wearing costumes. If he does wear a costume, be sure it’s comfortable and not restrictive.
• Keep your dog inside when trick-or-treaters are out.
• Give your dog a safe place to relax while your home is being invaded by trick-or-treaters. A back bedroom with a stuffed Kong toy and some music or white noise is a good option. Even dogs who are social are often startled and nervous on Halloween. Make sure they can find a peaceful place.
• Close the curtains so your dog isn’t forced to watch people coming and going outside.
• Meet your trick-or-treaters outside, rather than waiting till they ring the doorbell, especially if your dog barks at the doorbell or you expect a lot of trick-or-treaters. This will help keep your dog calm.
• When trick-or-treating with kids, instruct them not to approach or pet any dogs who may be out walking or tied up.
• If a house has a barking dog inside or behind a fence, skip it. Halloween tends to raise dogs’ stress levels, and there’s no sense pushing your luck.
• Keep candy out of your dog’s reach. Remember – some dogs’ reaches can be surprising! Use a sealed container, and lock it up tight.
• Make sure your dog is wearing his collar and ID tag. Accidents happen, and a dog wearing the proper ID will have a much easier time returning home.