While we were sitting in the reception area of our small animal vet with our sick guinea pig last week I saw a flyer listing Halloween safety tips for families with dogs and thought I would share the tips here since Halloween is only a couple of days away.  The tips are offered by Bark Busters (www.BarkBusters.com – a dog training company).

BRING YOUR DOG INDOORS – Even if you have a fenced yard, bring your dog inside where it is safe.  If your dog is usually kept outside, bring him in a few times before the big night to get him used to being indoors.  Your dog may be used to strangers, but so many little ghouls and goblins running around may be too much.  Remember also that it is a natural instinct for dogs to protect the family from strangers, and on Halloween there will be no shortage of strangers.

KEEP YOUR DOG RESTRAINED – If your dog is timid or scared, or if he tends to love people a little too much, it is best to put him in a separate room away from the front door to limit his excitement, aggression, and chance of running outside and becoming lost.

REASSURE YOUR DOG – The best thing you can do for your dog when he is feeling unsettled by Halloween activities is to act as you normally would around your dog.  By over-reassuring your dog or giving him an unusual amount of attention, you inadvertently can communicate to him that there must be something to worry about.

HAVE YOUR DOG GET USED TO COSTUMES – Your dog may see his family members as strangers once they don their Halloween costumes.  Before the kids put them on, allow your dog to scent the costumes.  Keep masks off while your dog is around.

CHECK YOUR DOG’S ID TAG – Be sure identification tags are secure on your dog’s collar — just in case.

KEEP CANDY AWAY FROM YOU DOG – Many candies–especially chocolate–are toxic to dogs, resulting from a mild upset tummy to vomiting and diarrhea, or even death.  If you want to keep your dog safe, make certain that sweets, including their wrappers, are kept well away from your dog.

PROTECT DOGS FROM CANDLES AND PUMPKINS – Excited or agitated dogs can easily knock over a lit candle or pumpkin.   Be sure those items are away from your dog’s reach, or consider a battery-powered candle that does not burn.

THINK TWICE ABOUT DRESSING YOUR DOG IN A COSTUME – While some dogs might enjoy being dressed up, many don’t.  Experiment first to see if your dog likes being in a costume.  If he shows any resistance, don’t do it.

BE PREPARED – If you take your dog with you while trick-or-treating, be prepared at all times.  Dogs do not understand that the person jumping out at you will not hurt you; they often think they can only help you by acting aggressively.  Neither children or adults in costumes should approach a dog without the owner’s consent.

Tame the Halloween fright!