Halloween: Please do not dress up dogs
FOUR PAWS offers tips to ensure that October 31st is not frightening for pets.
Halloween is just around the corner: On October 31st, it's all about carved pumpkins, spooky decorations, and scary costumes. But while this day is fun for many people, Halloween can cause a lot of stress for pets. Pet owners shouldn't dress up their animals, and learn how to avoid unnecessary stress for dogs and cats.
Elaborate, bright, or waving decorations for Halloween can cause stress for pets. Cats, in particular, are sensitive to changes in their home. Animal costumes are strongly discouraged, as they restrict animals' freedom of movement and disrupt their communication. Dogs primarily communicate through body language. If their tail and ears are covered by clothing, they can no longer communicate effectively. Costumes with flapping components that are uncomfortable or too warm also cause significant stress for the animal. Responsible pet owners should therefore not dress up their pets.
Even human costumes can frighten animals.
People should treat animals with consideration, even when dressing up. Those with particularly sensitive animals should avoid wearing costumes that cover the face around them. Our dogs and cats recognize us by smell, of course, but above all, they interpret our facial expressions. Scary masks and full-body costumes can unsettle or frighten animals.
Avoid unnecessary stress from noise.
Constant ringing and knocking at the door, a continuous stream of visitors, and increased activity at the front door can put some dogs on high alert. Dogs that tend to bark at every ring are particularly stressed on Halloween. It can help to keep the animal in a quiet room or distract it with calming music. If possible, you should turn the doorbell down or off completely. If you're hosting a party at home, you should inform your guests where your pet is and ask them to leave it alone.
Shift long walks to the daytime.
A mentally and physically well-exercised dog is more relaxed and less prone to stress. "You can enjoy Halloween much more when you know your dog is happy and healthy. So, before you get out and about in the evening, you can keep your dog busy with long walks and extra playtime during the day – and then take a shorter walk in the evening, away from busy roads," says the pet expert. For cats: Keep them indoors as soon as possible after sunset.