Halloween isn’t just tricks and treats for kids. Furry family members can also be part of the festive fun. My black cat, the ultimate symbol of Halloween (second only to pumpkins), gets her moment in the spotlight every year. I plop a tiny orange hat on her and take a photo of her with the kids in their costumes before we hit the streets trick-or-treating.
Many local pet businesses offer ways for pets to get in on the festive fun. From costumes to toys, treats and even parties, pet Halloween is serious business.
At Dogtopia of Burlington, pup members are invited to show off their costumes, join a mini parade, star in a spooky photo shoot, and even take home a treat to keep the night sweet.
While the idea of including pets in Halloween sounds fun, they don’t all enjoy the spooky festivities. “Dogs can be scared of masks,” says Tracy Buchkowsky, Manager at Dogtopia. Even social pups may find certain aspects of the evening frightening, or get anxious with the constant doorbell ringing. To help pets enjoy the evening, Buchkowsky recommends providing them with a calmer space — such as in a separate room or behind a baby gate — or even booking a sleepover at Dogtopia to avoid the Halloween chaos altogether.
If you do want to take your dog trick-or-treating, safety comes first. Keep the pup visible with the right, reflective gear. Allison Sullivan, owner of Burlington North’s Bone & Biscuit, recommends a light-up dog necklace such as Nitehowl. “It’s an LED safety necklace that you can cut to the proper size, and it’s rechargeable,” she says.
Tips to Maximize Halloween Fun with Pets
Get a porch portrait with your pet in costume before trick-or-treating begins. Buy a new toy to add some festive fun while keeping pets happily distracted from trick-or-treat chaos. Host a “paws parade” in your living room, or with some neighbours, so that four-legged-friends can show off their costumes. Don’t forget festive treats like Bosco & Roxy’s seasonal cookies!
Remember to keep pet costumes simple. They shouldn’t be too loose or tight. Avoid things that could impair movement, hearing, or vision and beware of any small accessories that can be swallowed. Try out the costume before Halloween night to ensure your pet is comfortable with it (you can tell if they push it off or wriggle out of it).
Buchkowsky also recommends keeping pets on a short leash in case they get spooked by a lawn ornament or trick-or-treater. And be sure to have their ID tags up to date in case they dart off.
For pets who get startled by noises, doorbell chaos, or unfamiliar faces, check with local pet stores for calming aids. Sullivan recommends Your Go 2 (a spray commonly used for pets who get anxious when getting their teeth cleaned) or Healthybud, calming chews made with duck meat and liver. In the cuteness department, pets are right up there with kids on Halloween night. Just remember to keep your furry ghouls safe, comfortable and happy.
BY LISA EVANS
