Tidbit: Holidays

Preparing your Dog for Ghosts and Goblins (condensed)

Dogs and cats are generally unprepared for the hubbub at Halloween. Practice teaching your dog that the door bell, yelling, and opening the door are not reasons to run outside. Use his leash at first and work toward times of day when there are many distractions outside.

Work on familiarizing (desensitizing) your dog with hats, masks, and strange noises. You don't want your dog to become overprotective or extremely fearful which could result in a dangerous situation.

When outside waiting for children, supervise. A properly disciplined dog can join in the fun by staying with you on a leash. Keep your dog safe by not leaving him outside unsupervised for long periods of time. Cats, especially black ones, should be kept indoors to protect them from the rare (but occasionally real) cruelty that could occur.

Chocolate is toxic to dogs. As little as 2 ounces of milk chocolate can reach toxic levels of the caffeine-like substance in chocolate. Do not leave your bowl of goodies anywhere the dog might reach it and be sure that children know where to keep their booty as well. (lb)

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