Dog Halloween Costume - Safety Tips for Pet Dogs

Author: Donna Boras

The demand for dog Halloween costumes has grown in the past number of years. Some families like to have their dog with them while trick-or-treating for security purposes; how about dressing your buddy up for Halloween and allow him to have fun too,  keeping dog Halloween safety in mind of course. With a properly trained pet, and dog-loving neighbors, it can be a family event. Some dogs like getting dressed up and the attention they get. Those who are not party animals may become stressed.  Here are some tips that may get your best friend in the mood.

Tips for Persuasion
1. Don’t wait until Halloween day, start a couple of weeks before to get your dog accustomed to the costume using treats to persuade him.
2. Let your buddy sniff around the costume, lay it over him for a minute, praise him and give him a treat. Do this several times. Every day follow this procedure, leaving the costume on longer each time.
3. Loosely put the costume on your doggy and repeat what you have done in the instructions above. A minute at first and then gradually take longer increments. Accompany this with many of treats and much praise.
4. If your dog gets nervous and agitated, and does not liking the costume idea, forget it. A doggy t-shirt, Halloween collar or bandana may be a better alternative.

Dog Halloween Costumes – Tips for Safety
1. The correct fit is important - not too tight or constricting.
2. Avoid impeding the breathing, hearing, sight, movement or barking.
3. Costume should not cause overheating.
4. The costume should be checked for things that may be poisonous or that may choke your doggy.
5. A dog should not at any time be left unattended when wearing a costume.
6. All rubber bands should be removed immediately.

Inside Safety on Halloween
1. Be mindful that your dog does not escape when you open your door to trick-or-treaters.
2. If your dog accidentally gets out, wearing a reflector could prevent injury from a car.
3. In case your dog does escape, do make sure he has an Identification tag on.
4. Think about having your friend on a leash, crated or in another room when trick and treaters are out and about.
5. Candy and wrappers will be everywhere on Halloween but they must be kept away from pets. A chew toy or a canine treat should keep him satisfied so that he does not feel left out.

Safety on Halloween - Outside
1. Every Halloween pets are injured, stolen tormented and tortured. It is important not to leave your dog outside on Halloween.
2. If you walk your dog Halloween evening, be vigilant of what he may pick up along the path.
3. Do have your dog on a lead and make sure he is wearing a collar and ID.
4. Set Jack O'Lanterns and lighted candles where they cannot be tipped over.

Shopping for Dog Halloween Costumes:
Does your dog have the temperament for trick or treating with the family? If so there is a huge amount of choices available for pets.
Have a safe and fun Halloween with your dog!


Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/dog-halloween-costume-safety-tips-for-pet-dogs-581716.html


About the Author

Donna Boras is a life long dog lover and owner of www.dog-beds-n-beyond.com where you will find a wealth of information, products and advice on caring for your dogs.  Subscribe to our FREE monthly publication; "The Dog Scoop" and receive 2 complimentary  gifts.

Image by http://www.bizrate.com/pet-costumes/oid1533810170.html