Halloween can be a scary time of year not just for those participating in trick or treating, but for dogs, who may find unexpected knocks at the door and people dressed in costumes unsettling.
Dogs Trust, who run a rehoming shelter in West Calder, is sharing its top tips for dog owners to help their pets have a safe and happy Halloween.
Susan Tonner, Manager at Dogs Trust West Calder said: “Halloween can be fun for all the human members of the family, but for dogs it can be a frightening time of the year.
“Your dog may be exposed to many unfamiliar sights and sounds, and they could easily become overwhelmed by the number of knocks at the door from people they don’t recognise, combined with being unnerved by the sound of any fireworks.”
There are lots of simple steps you can take to help keep your dog safe and happy this Halloween with Dogs Trust’s top tips:
· Adapt your routine in order to miss the costumes and fireworks
· Ensure your dog is comfortable
· Keep human treats and sweets safely out of your dog’s reach
· Be careful when opening doors so your dog doesn’t accidentally escape
· Keep the costumes and dressing up for humans only
· Feed your dog their main meals before the trick or treating begins so they can eat at a relaxed time
· Think twice about taking your dog out trick or treating
Even dogs who aren’t fazed by people dressed up and all the excitement involved with Halloween may not enjoy it for as long as you do. They might prefer to be at home in their safe and comfy space with their favourite enrichment activity and toys.
Halloween is the start of a disruptive and noisy week for dogs with fireworks also happening in the lead up to Bonfire Night.
Susan added: “Dogs have approximately four times more sensitive hearing than humans, so the loud cracks and bangs of fireworks can often be a terrifying experience for them. Following the recent news that firework displays that are run by local councils have been cancelled in some parts of the UK, there may be a rise in people hosting private firework displays at home.
“We urge dog owners to be extra prepared for a rise in neighbourhood displays, and to look at our full guidance on how to help their dogs stay safe and settled during fireworks. Private firework displays may not be limited to one night, so it is very important for all dog owners to seek out advice early, in order to have a comfortable fireworks season with their dog.”
For guidance on how to help your dog cope during fireworks, visit the Dogs Trust website.
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