October is rapidly coming to a close, which means that Halloween is just around the corner. While this holiday can be a fun one for your family, no matter if you have kids or not, Halloween can also be a dangerous time for your pet. Take a look at these quick reminders to keep your dog safe and sound this Halloween.
Keep Your Dog On a Leash
If you are headed out for some trick-or-treating, it is obvious to keep your dog on a leash. However, if you are opting to stay at home and pass out candy, a leash is still a good idea. Lots of ringing doorbells and masked visitors give your dog plenty of practice with distraction and commands, but he may not be 100% successful when you put him on Place while you answer the door. To keep him from running out an open door or scaring timid trick-or-treaters, be sure that he has his leash on during trick-or-treating hours.
Keep an Eye on His Costume
We love dog costumes as much as anyone, but it is important that you monitor your dog while he sports his new look. Dogs can become uncomfortable while in their costume, especially if not used to wearing “clothes”, and it can cause anxious or timid behavior. Be sure that your dog is able to walk and breathe normally while in his Halloween costume as well.
Keep Candy Far Away
Halloween often means bowls of unattended candy, which can lead to curious dogs getting into more chocolate and sugar than they ever knew possible. Be sure your candy bowl is out of reach, and that your child is responsible for keeping their candy stash away from the family pet.
Keep Control
If you are taking your dog out with your family to trick-or-treat, your dog will have the chance to interact with many new people, ghosts, mummies, and goblins. Even dogs that are great with kids may feel confused, scared, or unsure when approached by an excited witch or Pokemon. Make sure that kids who want to pet your dog use good manners by asking if they can do so, and then put your dog in a Sit command before allowing contact to happen.
If your dog could use a day of brush up training here at the studio before Halloween (or the other upcoming holidays) arrive, give us a call to set something up. Happy Halloween!