The big day is finally here! If you’ll be dressing up your furry family members, keep a few Halloween costume safety rules in mind.
- If you’ll be trick-or-treating, make sure your pet’s costume is visible! If the costume isn’t already reflective, you can buy reflective tape to add to the costume to help drivers see your furry friends.
- Watch the loose parts on the costume. Your pet may want to chew (and end up swallowing) a dangling part or a shiny button. Loose costume pieces can be a choking hazard or cause intestinal problems if swallowed.
- Make sure your pet can move easily. If your pet becomes tangled in the costume, he’s going to be afraid and upset and quickly learn to hate Halloween.
- Check the fit of your pet’s costume. Make sure it isn’t too tight — you should be able to fit two or even three fingers between the fabric, ties, or elastic of any costume. Be especially careful around the neck.
- Watch the temperature. A costume that is too heavy or hot can cause your pet to overheat. Watch him for excessive panting, or if he starts to fall behind while trick-or-treating.
- Don’t forget your leash. Don’t let your dog roam around off-leash on Halloween — if he gets spooked and runs, he could get hit by a car. An enthusiastic greeting could be too much for a younger, smaller trick-or-treater.
- Whether or not your pets are joining you for trick-or-treating, make sure they are wearing a collar with ID and rabies tags. If your pet does happen to get away from you, an ID collar is the best way to get him back safe and sound.
- Watch what your pets eat! Chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats and other sugary treats can cause other health problems. Make sure your pets only get appropriate treats in their goodie bags.
- Be considerate of your pet’s feelings. If he really doesn’t want to wear a costume, don’t press the issue. Halloween can be fun for everyone as long as everybody is happy! Snag a few quick pictures of your reluctant pet in costume, then take it off and let him enjoy the family time in comfort.