A warning has been issued to all dog owners who will be at home with their pets this week over "unsetting" costumes and "overwhelming" door knocks.
In the run-up to the spookiest night of the year, Halloween, Dogs Trust Merseyside is calling on owners to be mindful of the increase of unexpected door knocks and spooky-looking costumes. The charity has warned that the build-up to October 31 can leave dogs "easily overwhelmed".
The charity wants to warn dog owners that it can be a fun time of the year for human members of the family but for animals it can be "unnerving".
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Dogs Trust Merseyside manager, Georgina Lowery said: "Halloween can be fun for all the human members of the family, but for dogs it can be a frightening time of the year. Your dog may be exposed to many unfamiliar sights and sounds, and they could easily become overwhelmed by the number of knocks at the door from people they don’t recognise, combined with being unnerved by the sound of any fireworks.”
The charity has warned dog owners to take extra precautions this weekend and has provided some top tips to keep their pets happy and safe.
Dogs Trust's top tips:
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Adapt your routine to miss the costumes and fireworks
If you spot any trick-or-treaters whilst you’re out, head away from them and reward your dog with a treat whilst you turn around to avoid any ghoulish encounters that might scare your dog.
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Ensure your dog is comfortable
Some dogs will benefit from having a safe place to retreat to should they feel worried. This should be a quiet and cosy familiar place in the house that will give them the chance to relax undisturbed.
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Keep human treats and sweets safely out of your dog's reach
Many human treats, especially chocolate, are toxic to dogs. It’s safest to keep these treats well out of your dog's reach, and in case they accidentally sneak a human treat.
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Be careful when opening doors so your dog doesn't accidentally escape
Popping your dog on a lead before you open the door or ensuring they don’t have access to the door when trick-or-treaters pop by will help to keep them safe.
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Keep the costumes and dressing up for humans only
Adding a new and unfamiliar item for your dog to wear can cause them to be uncomfortable. You should also be aware of anything that could cause abrasions or irritations, resulting in your dog overheating, or stopping them from expressing normal behaviour.
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Feed your dog their main meals before the trick or treating begins so they can eat at a relaxed time
You could save a small portion of their food to prepare some food-based enrichment activities for later in the evening, to help keep them calm and relaxed.
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Think twice about taking your dog out trick or treating
Even dogs who aren’t fazed by people dressed up and all the excitement involved with Halloween may not enjoy it for as long as you do. They might prefer to be at home in their safe and comfy space with their favourite enrichment activity and toys.
Dogs Trust Merseyside has also warned owners to take extra precautions following Halloween as Bonfire night is just five days later.
Georgina said: "Dogs have approximately four times more sensitive hearing than humans, so the loud cracks and bangs of fireworks can often be a terrifying experience for them. Following the recent news that firework displays that are run by local councils have been cancelled in some parts of the UK, there may be a rise in people hosting private firework displays at home. "
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