Don't Cause a Costume Commotion
Advice from Animal Expert Dr. Grey Stafford
If you’re one of those dog or kitty owners who likes to dress your pet up for the holidays, October is the start of a busy season for you. It seems there’s a whole industry devoted to making our furry friends into scary goblins, thankful pilgrims or flying reindeer. As you shop or make your pet’s new costumes, keep these tips in mind.
Picking the Costume
Before you buy the first costume that catches your eye, stop to think about whether it will be safe for your pet. Can those antlers get hung up on the furniture or fence? What if your pet decides to chew on the costume? Are there sharp components like snaps or zippers, synthetic materials such as Velcro, or metal wires? If so, make sure you plan to supervise your pet whenever they are wearing the extra garb, even a leash or new collar, to prevent entanglements, injuries, and consumption of foreign objects.
Introducing the Costume
Once you've decided what your pet is going to "be" for Halloween, it's time to what your animal thinks about your choice. As with any new toy, enclosure, or activity it's important to move slowly when you introduce new garments like costumes to your pet. Just because they are designed for pets and look cute doesn’t mean these items aren’t a little scary or even overwhelming for some animals, especially if this is your pet’s first foray into clothing! So take a little time to introduce the costume – let the animal sniff it and interact with it first, before you try to squeeze him into it. And don't leave it on too long the first time. Start with a short trial run, then increase how long you leave it on slowly, adding just a few minutes at a time. This can help the animal get used to the costume which can minimize fussing over it. Of course, use rewards such as praise and a few food bits to thank them for enduring the ribbons, bonnets, and bows and so on.
Wearing the Costume
Finally, watch for signs of overheating. It is still pretty warm this time of year and while small dogs might like a sweater as winter approaches, the bigger breeds might find the extra layers uncomfortable. Make sure you keep water available for your animal, it if he seems to hot, take the costume off for a while.
Don’t wait for Halloween night to discover your animals don't want to look like giant spiders or funny food items. Start getting them ready now. It might help make the holidays as fun for them as they are for you!
~ Dr. Grey
Learn more about Dr. Grey Stafford
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