Helloween 2011: Safety Tips For Helloweeen

Halloween is a favorite holiday for many people who include the family dog in the festivities.

Preparing your dog for costumed guests, doorbells that continually ring and of course the piles of available candy and goodies can make for a challenging time for pet parents of both cats and dogs.

Keep in mind that even if your dog knows the neighborhood children many of those cute familiar faces will be hidden behind masks and their bodies covered beneath flowing costumes.

Safety Tips
1. If your dog has a tendency to bolt out the front door, then either crate or confine the dog away from a potential disaster.
2. If your dog will be outdoors during your Halloween party make sure gate latches are secure to prevent escape or theft.
3. Your dog may escalate vocalizations such as barking or whining due to the doorbell ringing with trick or treaters
4. Social dogs that normally welcome people into the home may become territorial or even aggressive at the door with all the activity and costumes so again, best to keep the dog gated away from the front door.
5. Kids are not the only ones who love candy. Your little canine opportunist may also find chocolate delights irresistible. Keep all candy and candy wrappers out of the dog’s reach.
6. If you are entertaining keep party food and alcohol out of dog’s reach.
7. A dog kept alone outdoors during this holiday is more susceptible to Halloween pranks so it is best for the dog to be safely indoors
8. Holiday decorations can also pose a risk to the curious canine. A dog can easily get tangled in cords used to light pumpkins or accidentally knock over candles.
9. Dog costumes can be cute but make sure your dog is comfortable and not frightened by your choice. The costume should not restrict the dog’s movement
10. If the dog accompanies the family trick or treating consider buying a reflective collar and leash. Don’t forget the ID tag on the dog’s collar.

http://blog.seattlepi.com/

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