Costumes are at the ready as Halloween is upon us and many are gearing up for an evening of trick or treating their neighbours.
The tradition of knocking on doors and asking for sweets against the threat of a punishment is age old, but it does make for a confusing time for a dog. Puppies, in particular, can be left feeling anxious or afraid by the constant door knocking. And with Guy Fawkes Night not far away, there is potential for this to be a bad week to be a dog owner or, for that matter, a dog.
Some organisations are trying to help prepare dogs for any spooky surprises with a spot of Halloween socialisation. For the Guide Dogs charity, this means exposing their puppies to unusual decorations and fancy dress costumes they might encounter.
Unfortunately, not all dogs get the chance to train for Halloween. So to help your pooch navigate Halloween, Hannah Wright, national dog training lead from guide dogs, has shared some tips for pet owners.
1. Walk dogs earlier in the day
Ms Wright explained that walking your dog earlier in the day can reduce the likelihood of any unexpected surprises, and also tire them out before any night-time antics.
"Walk your dog earlier in the day, before any trick-or-treaters are out on the streets. Plenty of exercise will also likely mean your dog is more relaxed and calmer in the evening if there are strange-looking visitors or noises outside," she advises.
2. Set up pet-friendly activities
Many pets get agitated when there's more people or traffic than usual. With increased numbers of families expected to be out and about knocking on doors, it's handy to keep your pets distracted with some at-home activities.
"If you know your dog may struggle when the areas around your house are busier, plan ahead and create some soothing enrichment activities you can do with them at home if they wish to," Hannah explained.
Studies have found that dogs get used to their toys very quickly. Introducing a new toy around Halloween, alongside their old toys, can stimulate interest and keep your pooch occupied.
3. Set up a cosy quiet spot
As well as treating them to a new toy, set up a cosy corner for your dog to feel comfortable in.
If they get frustrated by constant door knocks, consider leaving a bowl outside on the front step that trick or treaters can help themselves to.
4. Let your pets keep their distance
There's a good chance that some of your family members will be parading about at home in their Halloween costumes. Don't force animals to interact if you can sense they're not happy.
"Halloween can be confusing – it’s best to remove strange accessories if it makes your dog feel more comfortable," Ms Wright said.
5. Avoid dressing pets up
Dogs don't always like to be dressed up in clothing, and the Guide Dogs charity explained that it can be a stressful experience.
Save the creepy costumes for the humans and avoid trying to force your pet to wear uncomfortable or irritating costumes.
6. Keep candles away from animals
A number of fire and rescue services around the country have already issued warning about increased fire hazards during the spooky season. Pumpkins lit by a naked flame tend to be one of the biggest risks.
This also applies to living with a pet during Halloween. Refrain from leaving candles anywhere on the floor if you have pets at home.
7. Save the Halloween treats for the kids
While most pets love a good treat, it's important that your dog doesn't eat anything that could be harmful.
The Guide Dogs training lead explained: "Keep all Halloween sweets and chocolate well out of reach, and make sure any visiting children know they are not to share any of their treats with pets."
She added: "Chocolate, raisins and the sweetener Xylitol are all toxic to dogs, and ingesting plastic wrappers or foil can cause issues too."
