Ensuring Your Furry Friend's Safety During Halloween
As a professional dog trainer with years of experience, I understand the importance of keeping our furry friends safe during festive occasions like Halloween (or Howl-o-weeen). In this edition of our blog, we will be sharing valuable tips and insights on how to ensure your dog's safety during this exciting yet potentially challenging time.
1. Costume Considerations:
While dressing up our pets can be adorable, it's crucial to prioritize their comfort and safety. Opt for costumes that fit properly, allowing your dog to move freely and ensuring that nothing obstructs their vision or breathing. Avoid costumes with small parts that can be chewed or swallowed.
Reminder: If you dog doesn’t like to wear outfits or clothing do not force it. Yes, of course try it on but please don’t force them to be uncomfortable for long periods of time solely for your entertainment.
2. Candy Caution:
Halloween treats may be tempting, but many candies and chocolates are toxic to dogs. Keep all candy, especially those containing xylitol, out of your dog's reach. Be vigilant during trick-or-treating outings to prevent your pup from snatching any dropped candies from the ground. Some of our Swaggers are extremely sneaky and quick so I already know their heads will be on a swivel for anything laying on a ground. lol
3. Secure Your Pet:
During Halloween festivities, it's common for doors to be frequently opened and closed. Ensure your dog is safely secured in a separate room or crate to prevent them from darting out into the night. This will also help reduce stress and anxiety caused by the constant commotion. Also, it will reduce YOUR stress not having to keep your head on a swivel for where they are. Enjoy your night with the trick or treaters or with your friends. Utlize the crate so they can relax and then when your done for the night you can let them out and enjoy your time together and tell them all about all the cute and scary custom you saw. (I promise they will be fine chillin in their crate for a few hours.)
4. Decorations and Candles:
Be mindful of Halloween decorations, especially those that involve candles or open flames. Wagging tails and curious noses can accidentally knock over decorations or come into contact with flames, leading to potential injuries or fire hazards. Opt for pet-friendly decorations or consider using flameless candles instead or my personal favorite, diffusers! They are the best for creating a cozy fall aroma while being safe to have around your fur babies.
5. Identification is Key:
With increased foot traffic and potential escape opportunities, it's crucial to ensure your dog has proper identification. Double-check that their collar is securely fastened with an up-to-date ID tag containing your contact information. Microchipping is an additional safety measure that can greatly increase the chances of a reunion if your dog goes missing.
6. Create a Safe Space:
If your dog becomes anxious or overwhelmed by the Halloween festivities, provide them with a quiet and comfortable space where they can retreat to. Consider using calming aids such as dog CBD, diffusers or soothing music to help create a relaxing environment in while they nap in their crate.
Again, if you know you’ll be answering the door alot or plan to have company over for a halloween party be proactive and put your dog in their kennel before the festivities begin. Halloween costumes are NOT a normal attire for dogs so don’t force them to be uncomfortable when they don’t need to be. If their crate is in the main room where foot traffic will be consider moving their crate to a room that no one will be entering. Keeping them out of sight helps them not feel like they need to react when they see the halloween costumes but it also helps your guest not bother them by walking up to their crate and invading their personal space.
Remember, the safety and well-being of our furry friends should always be our top priority. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your dog enjoys a safe and stress-free Halloween.
I hope you find these tips helpful in keeping your dog safe during this festive season. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out. Wishing you and your furry friend a spooktacular Howl-o-ween!