If some of your furry friends are especially anxious, it may be wise to arrange pet boarding for them on Halloween. As for the pets that enjoy socializing, though, dress them up for your night of trick-or-treating. Keep the following tips in mind to ensure a safe and fun evening for everyone.

Do:

Choose the right costume.

This doesn’t mean to pick the trendiest costume or most flattering outfit. When dressing a pet, use apparel designed specifically for animals—doll clothes and baby gear are out. Also, the costume should fit correctly and not have any straps that can get caught on passing objects. Forgo buckles and zippers that can cause irritation.

Practice wearing the outfit.

If you dress up your pets for the first time on Halloween night, they’ll probably end up rebelling. To ensure their comfort, introduce them to the clothing gradually. Start by letting them smell everything, and don't put them in their costumes until they've decided the clothing isn't scary.

Don’t:

Ignore body language.

Unfortunately, some animals just don't want to dress up. If your pets clearly don't like their costumes, take the clothing off. Signs that your dog or cat is uncomfortable include snarling, panting, growling, and scratching or pawing at the apparel.

Forgo safety.

If your pets go trick-or-treating, attach reflective strips to their costumes. Pack plenty of water, too, so they don't get dehydrated while you walk. If your pets seem to enjoy themselves, trick-or-treating can become a tradition. If, on the other hand, they get stressed out, arrange for pet boarding next year.

For more pet care tips, turn to the friendly team at Alexandria Pike Animal Hospital in Southgate, KY. This full-service small animal practice provides everything from pet boarding to spaying and neutering. They’ve served families throughout northern Kentucky and downtown Cincinnati since 1958, and they’re led by Dr. Eric Doan, who loves getting to know each patient personally. To explore all the services they provide, visit their website. To make an appointment or schedule pet boarding, call (859) 781-1800.