Halloween is a particularly challenging holiday for some dogs. It presents the stimuli that can make dogs crazy with alarm and reactivity: a doorbell ringing constantly; humans – sometimes with scary hats and wigs – running to that door repeatedly and opening it wide; truly terrifying masks and costumes on little people who yell things and sometimes even step inside; baskets filled with food to sample and guard, resulting in scolding; and a neighborhood populated with skeletons, pumpkins and soundtracks that would make even resilient dogs batty.
With the Halloween season upon us, and decorations being hung across most neighborhoods, here are a few things to keep in mind for your dog this Witching Season.
An Early Walk – Walk your dog well before dusk and try keep her off the streets during the witching hours of 4:30 pm to 9:00 pm. Take food with you to redirect and soothe your dog past scary props. Cross the street if you encounter young children making early rounds.
Keep the candy secure! – Most of the candy and other treats we have around for Halloween can be toxic to your dog. Dogs get very sick from eating chocolate and artificial sweeteners. The extra sugar and salt are also unhealthy for your dog. When dogs steal these items, they do not go to the trouble of unwrapping the tasty treat. The wrappers can cause choking, and an upset stomach or a blockage. So make sure the treats are kept up and in a secured container.
Extra Tip: You might want to have some tasty treats that are healthy available for your dog. Slices of carrots, broccoli stems, plain rice cakes can all serve a special treat for your dog at a time in which forbidden goodies will be available.
Trick or Treating – Judgement call, but think about not taking your dog trick or treating. She might be much happier and safer at home. Identify a familiar, comfortable area (not the cold garage or dark basement) as far from the activity as possible and provide background noise –television, radio, and white noise – to muffle the doorbell and conversations. Keep your dog there for the duration of the evening. Don’t let them be free in the house with access to that front door.
Costumes – Some dogs are okay about doggy costumes, but others might be stressed by them. So think twice before dressing her up as Twilight Sparkle this year.
Dinner Time – Feed your dog her dinner and additional treats before the festivities begin.
ID’s – Make sure your dog is wearing her collar with all your contact information just in case she does get spooked and finds an open door or runs away.
If you sometimes feel that holidays were created with canine angst in mind, you might be correct. These steps can help you both get through the evening and set the stage for the next in line – Thanksgiving!
