How to Protect Your Dog on Halloween

Halloween is the time of year that a lot of people like to do pranks-egg throwing, toilet paper and stink bombs in the mailbox are all popular things to do on this night-which is why it is very important to make sure your dog is protected. Here are some ways.

Things You'll Need

• Baby gate
• Leash
• Collar
• Dog treats
• Crate

Instructions

1. I read an article that recommended tying up your dog outside in front of your house on Halloween night to keep pranksters away. TERRIBLE ADVICE! Never tie up your dog outside on Halloween night. A dog that is tied up has no way to escape anyone who wants to tease or taunt the poor animal.

2. Keep a close eye on all the candy and chocolate that is in your house. Chocolate is not good for dogs and can kill them if the dose is high enough.

3. When trick or treaters come to your house make sure your dog is secure and won't run out the door when it is open. Using a different room, using a baby gate and teaching your dog the stay command are all ways that you can deal with this.

4. If this is your dog's first Halloween, check to see if your dog is nervous around costumes. Some dogs will get scared from the big wigs and weird masks that people are wearing. It's a good idea to find out about this before the big night.

5. Bring your dog inside on Halloween night. Pranksters are out and they can and do tease dogs that are left outside. It is much safer for your dog to be inside.

6. Make sure that your dog has on up-to-date Identification tags in case your dog gets loose. Also make sure your dog has all of his current vaccinations.

7. Keep the number for the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center handy. The number is [phone].

Tips & Warnings

• Have some dog treats on hand to give to your dog.

• Give your dog plenty of exercise before Halloween night.

Resources

• FREE Dog Training Videos, Articles and Advice