Is it Cruel to Dress Up Your Dog for Halloween?

It is that time of year again. Adults and children alike wait in anticipation for Halloween. They are buying up their costumes, pumpkins, decorations and of course, candy. And during this time of year, most families wish to include their canine companions in the fun and that is fine. Just keep these tips in mind and Dario, your pug, will have as much fun as your family and you this year.

The biggest threat to your dog on Halloween is the candy. Sugar in general is not big on a dog's ‘must have' diet, but chocolate is dangerous. This is because of a chemical in chocolate that is toxic to dogs. Even a small amount of chocolate can cause illness, seizures or even kill little Dario. So keep his paws out of the candy dish, please! Other types of candy, such as gum, gummies and other treats, also have sugar additive (excess high fructose corn syrup) that is harmful. If you want to give your dog a healthy treat, try apples or carrots. You may sprinkle a little brown sugar on either of them, but keep it to a minimum, please. While a glazed apple, dipped in caramel and sugar and hard as a rock might be fun for your kid, it's nothing but disastrous for little Dario.

Candy is one of the most obvious safety hazards on Halloween, but here are a few more to be aware of:

• The cords and small pieces associated with decorations and lights are harmful if swallowed or chewed. Chewed cords may electrocute your dog, if while chewing he exposes the wires.

• Costumes – While some owners may like the thought of dressing their dog in costume, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to make it safe and enjoyable. First, you must be sure that your dog enjoys dressing up. If he appears anxious in the outfit, do not force him to wear it. Have him wear a festive bandanna or collar instead. Discomfort in the costume may cause him to act abnormally and hurt himself. Also, if your dog does want to dress up, make sure that: The costume is not too big or too small. If it is either one of these things, it may cause your dog to choke or get caught on a piece of furniture, which is never good.

Halloween is and can be a fun time for your pet and you, but as with any holiday, safety should come first. If you keep these tips and tricks in mind, the holiday should be a real treat! Not just for you, but for Dario too, who will probably fall asleep watching Dracula.

If you buy a pet costume at a store, or if you make it yourself, you can expect to pay anywhere between $5 – $25. The more elaborate the costume, the more it will cost. If you decide right away the costume you are going to get, or make for your pet, the easier the day will be.