Are you planning on getting dressed up for Halloween? It’s always fun seeing what people come up with for outfits. Many of our canine friends also get in on the fun. Fido has certainly worn some pretty adorable outfits: he’s been a bumblebee, a spider, a dragon, a taco, a tootsie roll, and a cactus, to name just a few things. There’s nothing wrong with putting a cute outfit on your pooch. However, there are some safety concerns to be aware of. A local Anderson, IN vet offers some advice on this below.

Fit

First and foremost, make sure that your canine friend’s outfit fits him well, and doesn’t restrict his vision or movements. We’d recommend measuring Fido before buying anything. If you’re shopping in a brick-and-mortar store, take your pup’s measurements with you. (Tip: Snap a picture of them, so you’ll have the photo in your phone gallery.)

Material

Choose a breathable material. That will help keep your furry best friend from getting too hot. After all, Fido is already wearing a fur coat! Avoid flammable materials as well.

Dangers

Don’t put your canine companion in anything with small parts, such as buttons or beads. Dogs sometimes try to eat or play with these types of things. That could be a serious choking hazard. Outfits with zippers are also best avoided. Those zippers can catch in Fido’s fur. Ouch! Outfits with trailing parts can also be dangerous in certain situations: you don’t want your pooch getting caught on anything. It’s probably best to opt with things that were made specifically for Man’s Best Friend. These will have been made with dogs’ comfort, health, and safety in mind.

Comfort

It’s also important to take your four-legged friend’s opinion into consideration. Some pooches won’t bat an eye at being dressed up as Batman or a dairy cow. Others get very nervous and uneasy in clothing. If Fido seems uncomfortable, don’t force the issue. Snap a cute picture, and then take his outfit off. You can also go with something more low-key, like a bow tie.

Other Hazards

Costumes aside, there are also other hazards to be concerned about. Small items, such as little figurines, can be serious choking hazards. Candies are another concern: they often contain things like chocolate, raisins, or xylitol, which are toxic to Fido. Ask your vet for more information.

Please do not hesitate to contact us anytime. As your local Anderson, IN animal clinic, we’re here for you.