Animal Humane Society in Golden Valley Urges Costume Safety for Pets

Halloween can be a fun time for kids. However the Animal Humane Society of Golden Valley urges some special considerations when it comes to pets.

“Just make sure that the costume won’t limit them in any way so they can walk, see, hear smell, bark and meow normally. When you’re looking for costumes you want to make sure that its make of non-toxic material. And avoid any small dangling accessories that they could chew on and swallow,” said Sarah Bhimani with the Animal Humane Society in Golden Valley.

There are considerations when choosing a Halloween costume for your pet.

The big night

And if you’re going to dress up yourself and go out with your pet give them time to get used to you in costume as well.

Animal experts also recommend preparing your pet for all the commotion on Halloween night.

“Start getting your pets used to the doorbell ringing or knocking at the door . You can either play it on the phone and feed treats while they listen to that noise. Or you could even have a partner who is outside ringing the doorbell and you’re inside giving your pet treats and lots of praise,” said Bhimani.

Bhimani says if your pet is very shy and frightened you may want to create a safe room for them that evening. Play some soft music or white noise to mask out external noises. Then have them shelter in place for the night.