“Howl”oween Tips and Tricks

BOO!  Yes, it’s that time of year for ghosts and goblins to come knocking at your door.  While it may be fun and exciting for humans, oftentimes, it can be stressful for dogs and cats.  Here are some song-inspired tips and tricks to keep your furry family members ghoul-free on Halloween.

Some “body’s” knockin’ at the door, some “body’s” ringin’ the bell!  Well, you know it won’t be a skeleton because, um, they don’t have a body.  Hahaha!  Seriously though, every time someone knocks on your door or the doorbell rings, your pets perk up in either excitement or protection mode.  If your pet gets overstimulated by the sounds, then it’s best to prepare them ahead of time.  Some good options include putting them in a room with some background noise, like music or the TV, or in their crate.  You can also send them to a friend or relative’s house who doesn’t get trick-or-treaters, so they (and you) can enjoy a peaceful evening.

It was a one-eyed, one-horned, flyin’, purple people eater!  Getting dressed up for Halloween is so much fun.  If you plan on putting a costume on your dog though, make sure they are okay with it first.  Buy a costume that is made for a dog’s specific body type, so it is comfortable and accommodates their bathroom needs, ears, line of sight, and ability to pant if they get hot.  Put it on them first and look at their body language to gauge their reaction.  Let them wear it for a little while, and then if they are still hiding in a corner with their tail between their legs, it’s a no-go.  Also, make sure they can’t chew on their costume if you look away.  It’s not candy to you, but it might be delicious to them.  Speaking of candy…

Candy Girl, you are my world, you look so sweet, you're a special treat!  Let’s face it, one of man’s best creations ever is CANDY!  Your dog thinks so too, but unfortunately, human candy treats are off limits for him.  Make sure you keep the loot you’re handing out, or have collected, out of your pet’s reach.  As you can imagine, vets are inundated with calls and visits during Halloween because Fido decided to wolf down a pillowcase full of Snickers – just to satisfy him.  On a side note, if you’re curious as to what the top Halloween candies are, we did the homework for you here.  You’re yummy yum welcome.

With a nick nack paddy whack, give a dog a bone!  Lastly, in addition to October being all about Halloween, it’s also Adopt a Shelter Dog Month.  If you plan on adopting this month, give yourself the treat of a lifetime by visiting your local shelter.  Also, check out our Up Country Cares section to learn more about how we give back, pay it forward, and all the feel good stuff in-between.    

For more tips and tricks for a Fear Free Halloween, click here.