A rescue dog can be a wonderful addition to your family. So many lovable breeds are in shelters waiting to find their forever home. If you’ve recently adopted one of these special dogs, you’ll want them to have fun and enjoy the Halloween season. A good way to ensure their happiness is to familiarize yourself with some Halloween safety guidelines.
Reduce Stress
Some dogs love the excitement of Halloween, but others may find the holiday to be way too stressful. If your pup tends to be anxious, you’ll want to find them a quiet space where they’ll feel safe while you enjoy the Halloween activities. Get them settled in their safe space before the trick-or-treaters start showing up.
Set on your porch or in the front yard to pass out candy. This eliminates constant knocking on your front door, which unsettles even the calmest dogs.
Your dog may be more comfortable in their safe space even if you’re simply having a small gathering. Humans dressed up in costumes and masks can confuse your pup, even if they know your guests. Be sure to post a note on the door of whatever room they’re in so nobody accidentally pops in and surprises them.
While it may sound fun to take your rescue dog along with you when you trick or treat, it’s always best to leave them at home. Unknown people, costumes and crowded sidewalks may provoke a dog. Unfortunately, children may be the target of a dog bite on Halloween. Even the most mild-mannered dog may be tempted to bite or run away in a Halloween environment.
Safe Decorations
Some decorations are dangerous for dogs. Lit candles are a fire hazard, especially around an excited pup. Fake eyeballs and cobwebs pose a choking hazard. Glow sticks and fake blood can contain poisons. Make sure that plastic packaging from these decorations and candy wrappers is thrown away immediately.
The Danger of Candy
Halloween candy is a wonderful treat for you, but much of it is dangerous for your dog. Keep it up high or in a cabinet with a child safety lock. Chocolate, gum, and the sweetener Xylitol are all hazardous to dogs.
Explain this to young children. They may be tempted to share their loot with your pup in an attempt to include them in their fun. Just in case, have the ASPCA Animal Poison Control phone number handy. If your pup does get into the candy, this organization can be quite helpful, especially if your veterinarian’s office is closed.
Another common food item found in Halloween celebrations is pumpkin. While pumpkin is beneficial for dogs in small amounts, you don’t want them devouring an entire one. Pumpkins that have been carved into Jack-o-lanterns are worse. They often contain bacteria. You don’t want your dog suffering from digestion issues after the holiday is over.
Pet Costumes
Consider your rescue dog’s personality when it comes to dressing them up. Not all dogs will tolerate Halloween costumes. If yours doesn’t seem to mind, keep an eye on them. If they show signs of discomfort, such as rolling their eyes, folding their ears down, or tucking their tail between their legs, take the costume off.
If their outfit includes a hat or mask, get your photo quick and then remove them. Choose costumes that don’t have any small pieces that could come off and become choking hazards.
Above all else, your dog will let you know what they like or don’t like. Don’t push them to do things that make them uncomfortable. If you keep these things in mind, you and your rescue dog can enjoy a wonderful Halloween celebration together.
