Trick Or Treat From Oscar

Trick-or Treat! 

Hi, it’s me Oscar, one of the senior Sanctuary residents at Paws Give Me Purpose Inc. Bet you didn’t recognize me in my costume, I barely recognize myself!

Halloween is here, and though you might get a kick out of the adorable witches and ghosts who come to your door, us dogs may not be as thrilled. 

Halloween is pretty loud and chaotic, much different from any other “normal” day of the year. So please be aware that all those fun Halloween activities you enjoy can be stressful for us dogs.

Unusual activities like constant doorbell ringing and costumed visitors can all pose threats, and cause us anxiety. Us dogs are creatures of habit, and when our normal routine is interrupted we can feel uncomfortable and even get agitated – Halloween is no exception. Keep your little pup-kin safe by following my easy tips.

1 – CHOOSE A COMFY COSTUME 

Never force your little pup-kin to dress up. I happen to like dressing up! If your dog enjoys it like I do, be sure the costume isn’t constricting, unsafe or annoying as this can add stress.

2 – TRICK-OR-TREAT CANDY IS NOT FOR US DOGS

No candy for us furry trick-or-treaters. Keep us away from your candy stash; it can be very toxic.

I plan on hanging out in the Sanctuary Senior Center with all the other senior pups, enjoying some delicious doggie treats specially prepared for us. 

3 – KEEP YOUR PUP IN A SEPARATE AREA, AWAY FROM THE HOCUS POCUS

Keep your pup away from the front door where all the action is. Keeping them in a separate room with a favorite toy or snack will prevent over-stimulation and attempts to escape. 

4 – CALM SKITTISH SPIRITS

If your dog is anything like me and gets a little skittish during too much excitement, you can try a calming supplement, apparel or even some lavender essential oil in a diffuser to help keep them relaxed. 

They use essential oils here at Paws Give Me Purpose and they really do help a great deal.

5 – BEWARE OF DECORATION DANGERS

Don’t let cords dangle or leave candles unattended. Watch for choking hazards and be wary of any animated decorations that might make loud startling noises causing us dogs to be stressed. 

6 – PLEASE! MAKE SURE YOUR FURRY FAMILY MEMBER IS WEARING AN ID

Be sure your pup is wearing identification or is even microchipped to provide peace of mind just in case they manage to slip out.

Halloween can be a little intimidating for us dogs, because we really don’t understand all the hoopla. So when it comes to your own furry friend, be mindful of where you put the chocolate, exercise them earlier in the day to drain their energy so they can be more relaxed and reward them with dog-safe treats to keep them busy and as rewards when they are non-reactive to trick-or-treaters.

Halloween should be fun for your entire family including us furry family members. Keep my tips in mind during your festivities to ensure everyone stays safe and have a wonderful time.

Happy Halloween! 🎃