Taking the Howl out of Halloween

Halloween is a festive and fun time for most, but many dogs don’t share their owner’s joy of ringing doorbells and strangers at the door with scary masked faces. They also typically don’t enjoy unexpected jumps around the corner accompanied by a loud “BOO!” With all the extra excitement and visitors, there is an abundance of attention and affection, but there is also an increase of tension and anxiety.

We know that dogs thrive on affection, and many owners will go “over-the-top” in their efforts to make their four-legged friend stand out in the crowd. But when that involves putting their pup in an outlandish costume, the dog’s discomfort often takes away from their reception of all that extra attention.

You can get your dog involved in the holiday festivities without sending them cowering into a corner at the sight of a pumpkin puppy costume. Try a terrifyingly trendy Halloween party collar; they’re lightweight and comfortable, and your pup is sure to enjoy the added attention received while strutting in holiday style. And you’re sure to get at least one Kodak moment.

If your planning an evening of excitement and frightening events that your canine friend will not be fond of, be sure to give plenty of attention during the day – go for a long walk or run, play in the yard, and give them an extra treat or two. Before your guests arrive, put your pooch in a room with a comfortable place to curl up, and maybe a new toy. After a day of excitement, they may just sleep right through the sounds of “Monster Mash” and zombies in the hallway.