Halloween can be a spooky time for pets

MURRAY— Halloween can be a spooky time for pets, particularly dogs, the Humane Society of Utah is advising pet owners.

It suggests bringing pets indoors this weekend — even in fenced yards, since lots of strangers in costumes approaching will be approaching front doors.

"It might also be a good idea to keep your dog in a separate room, away from the front door," Carl Arky, society spokesman, said. "Whether he or she loves people, limit the amount of excitement, and reduce the chance of Fido running out the door, getting lost, injured or hurting a trick-or-treater."

He said another good idea is to get dogs familiar with costumes — especially if members family will be wearing them.

"Let your dog get the scent of the costumes, and try to keep masks off when your pets are present," he said.

Arky also recommends checking canines' ID tags and collars, just in case the dogs get loose.

"Getting your dog micro-chipped — which the Humane Society does for a nominal fee — is always a good idea and helps return lots of lost pets to their homes," he said.

He stressed, too, keeping candy, especially those with chocolate or artificial sweeteners — toxic to dogs — out of reach. Even a candy wrapper can be a hazard to pets.

Regarding dressing pets:

"Some dogs enjoy getting dressed up ... some don't. Experiment to see what kind of reaction you get. If the dog resists, don't do it. No masks covering the face," Arky said.

Finally, consider whether to take your dog with you and your family if you all go out trick-or-treating.

"This could instill or reinforce a fear of strangers and place unnecessary stress on the animal. So give this careful consideration."

This also might be a more confusing Halloween than unusual for pets, since trick-or-treaters might be out both Saturday and Sunday nights, with Halloween on a Sunday this year.

For more information, go to www.UtahHumane.Org.

— Lynn Arave