Halloween Safety and Fun for Dogs and Their Owners

Whether you're going for your usual walk or have something more festive in mind, if you're like many dog owners, you enjoy dressing up your pet and taking him out for Halloween. In many cases, it seems like the dogs enjoy it too. However, while there is a lot of fun to be had at Halloween, it is important for both you and your dog to stay safe. By the end of October, the sun goes down in the very early evening. While this contributes to the spooky atmosphere that is part of the fun of Halloween, it also poses some very real hazards, especially when traffic may be slightly heavier because of the holiday. It is important to make your pet as visible to drivers of passing cars as possible. Depending on where you live, Halloween can also bring cold temperatures, which can be an issue for dogs with thin coats.

Here are some tips to help you and your dog stay safe while getting into the Halloween spirit.

Walk the Correct Way

Whenever you walk at night, stay on the sidewalk whenever possible and keep your dog on the sidewalk too. To get into the spirit of the season, you may choose a leash with designs specific to Halloween or in festive colors of orange and black . In either case, choose a leash that is no more than six feet long. You do not want your pet getting into trouble by running into the street, and when there may be a lot of other people out walking around, you need to keep your dog under control.

You might have to walk in an area where there are no sidewalks available. In this case, you should always keep to the left side of the road, facing oncoming traffic, so that you can see what's coming and take evasive action if necessary. Here it becomes even more important to keep your dog on a short leash.

Make Your Dog Visible

Your pet is more likely to get hit by a car if a driver cannot see her. Safety lights make her more visible to oncoming traffic. You may be able to find a dog costume with a safety light built in, such as this seasonally appropriate cape, collar, and leash combination . However, even if your dog's costume does not include a safety light, you can purchase one with multiple color options to match the costume. You can then use the safety light whenever you and your dog go walking after dark, not only at Halloween.

Another way to help keep your pet visible after dark is to choose dog clothing and accessories with reflective materials woven into the fabric. These materials absorb wavelengths of light that the human eye can not see and reflect them back at a wavelength that is perceivable. If you cannot find reflective dog gear, you can attach reflective tape to your dog's collar, leash, and Halloween costume as needed. This is not an ideal solution, however, because the tape may fall off.

Keep Your Dog Warm

In some areas of the country, Halloween night can be really cold, especially if the wind is blowing. While some breeds are well equipped with thick fur to cope with the cold, some thin-coated breeds can suffer ill effects when the temperature dips down with the changing seasons. These dogs benefit from protective gear such as coats, vests, and perhaps even snowsuits . As a bonus, you may find cold-weather gear also equipped with strips of reflective material for better visibility.

Choose Gear That Does Double Duty

Harnesses are good options for dogs that have neck injuries or respiratory problems. They help you keep better control over your pet, which is important at a time like Halloween when both the vehicular and foot traffic may be greater than normal. A harness that features a licensed character design , Halloween motif, or other decoration can serve as a costume for your dog at the same time.

However, the dual purpose of the gear doesn't have to be exclusive to Halloween. For example, the orange reflective harness that you buy your dog for Halloween could also help keep him safe if you go hunting later in the season. A vest that keeps your poodle warm in October will likely serve him well through the remainder of autumn and into the winter chill.

Choose Items That Fit Well

Everyone knows that dog costumes are adorable. However, don't get so caught up in the cuteness that you ignore your pet's comfort. Be sure to choose costumes and accessories that are appropriately sized for your dog's breed and free of any choking hazards. Don't leave your pet in the costume too long, and don't leave her unattended while in costume. Check that the costume does not restrict breathing, senses such as hearing or smell, or other vital functions.

Read Your Dog's Body Language

Not all dogs like dressing up in costumes. Some hate it, and will let you know by shaking, slinking away from you, pinning back their ears, licking their lips, etc. Pay attention to signs that your pet may be under stress and do not force him into a costume if you can tell he doesn't like it. Your dog may tolerate only certain parts of a costume, or only be able to wear it for a short duration. Follow your dog's lead and let him communicate to you what kind of costume he will tolerate and for how long.

Halloween can be one of the most fun times of the year for both you and your pet. Follow these tips to keep both you and your dog safe while enjoying the festivities.