Halloween is approaching and let’s face it, people are going to dress up their pets.
It’s cute!
Just keep a few things in mind.
First, only dress up your pet if you can do so without causing stress to your pet. Some pets tolerate clothes an costumes, some don’t. Some actually enjoy it, others can’t stand it. Just because you think it’s a good idea, it doesn’t mean your pet does. Respect your pet’s comfort zone. Doing things that cause stress, no matter how cute it is, will negatively impact your relationship with your pet. It can also cause behavior issues after because your pet is anxious, feels unsafe, or doesn’t trust you as much.
This applies to everyone, even if you have the best relationship with your pet!
Secondly, costume themes have energy (just like nicknames. Search for that post if you haven’t read it. If you dress your pet up silly, can your pet take it? Is your your pet a jokester like you? Or will your pet take it seriously and feel laughed at? Yes they all have personalities and some will feel laughed at. Sometimes one item / accessory is just enough to make a pet feel included without causing stress. It doesn’t always have to be a full costume. It can even be an orange bow on a collar.
Thirdly, some pet’s will be upset seeing other pet’s in costume!
Though I am always all for including your pet’s in every family event and holiday, think carefully about how you include your pet. Include your pet in his/her comfort zone. And remember some pet’s are more reserved and want to stay home, lay low, and not participate and that is ok too.
The best thing you can do is honor your pet’s personality and comfort zone.
And if you don’t dress your pet up, at least get your pet a special pet safe “trick or treat” snack. All the animals know what the holidays are, they get excited by the energy, and they DO want to be included in the way that feel most comfortable for them.