Over the years, it has become increasingly acceptable to dress up our unsuspecting pets. Popular Internet photos make it seem like this is normal behavior around the globe. And while people claim that, “Bitsy loves to dress up!” the fact that these domesticated pets were once wild animals – with a certain amount of dignity – seems to be lost on many folks.
Most pets prefer being au naturel and wearing a costume may cause undue stress. If you really want to include Rover or Fluffy, consider a simple holiday-themed bandana – along with these helpful tips from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
Costumes cause some pets distress
If you must dress up your pet, make sure the costume isn’t annoying or unsafe: it shouldn’t constrict the animal’s movement or hearing, or impede their ability to breathe, bark or meow. The ASPCA recommends you try on costumes before the big night, and if your pet seems distressed, allergic or shows abnormal behavior, consider letting them go as themselves or donning a festive bandana.
They also suggest you take a close look at your pet’s costume to make sure it does not have small, dangling or easily chewed-off pieces that they could choke on. Also, keep in mind ill-fitting outfits can get twisted on external objects or on your pet and lead to injury.
No tricks, only pet-friendly treats
Chocolate is lethal to most dogs, so keep it away from your pet. Candies containing the artificial sweetener xylitol can also cause problems, according to the ASPCA. If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, call your veterinarian. Popular Halloween plants such as pumpkins are considered to be nontoxic.
Fire and flames in the night
A carved pumpkin is festive, but exercise caution if you add a candle. Pets can easily knock over a lit pumpkin or candles and cause a fire. Curious cats and kittens especially run the risk of getting burned or singed by candle flames.
Who’s at the door?
All but the most social dogs and cats should be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treating hours, says the ASPCA. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful for pets. When opening the door for trick-or-treaters, take care that your cat or dog doesn’t dart outside.
Who let the dogs out?
And finally, the society recommends that your dog or cat has proper identification. If your pet runs away and becomes lost, a collar and tags or a microchip can be a lifesaver, increasing the chances that your beloved pet will be returned to you.
Top 10 pet costumes in 2012
According to the National Retail Federation’s monthly shopper survey in September, 86 percent of respondents planned to dress up their pets and these are their top choices for 2012.
- Pumpkin
- Devil
- Hot Dog
- Cat
- Bee
- Tie between Dog and Ghost
- Action/Super Hero
- Witch
- Bowties/Fancy Collars/Bandanas
- Superman
So, plan a happy holiday with your pets – keep human treats out of reach and if you insist on dressing Rover or Fluffy up, don’t go overboard; keep their comfort and safety in mind, and have a fun and safe Howl-O-Ween!