Keep Your Dog Safe This Halloween
This is the perfect time to prepare your security game plan and begin de-sensitizing your dog to the ghouls and zombies that will visit your home on Halloween. Did you know that this is one of the most dangerous holidays for dogs?Besides the obvious toxicity of chocolate candy and such, there is also the constant ringing of the doorbell, open doors and strangely dressed visitors which would cause even a well-behaved dog to react.
Here are a few tips to keep Fido safe:
1. Increase the amount of Daily Obedience that you do with your dog. when training it is always about earning all rewards including food, play and privileges. No time to train? Even dog trainers like myself are crunched for time. I train during commercials. Practice WAIT at the door with you going first after you tell your dog it is okay to follow. Take a stroll through the neighborhood and make it a training walk throwing in random sits, U-Turns and WAIT before crossing with a permission word. Include a fun RECALL as part of training and make it a joy to return to you. Remember to praise and reward your dog for good behavior.
2. Begin introducing your dog to the sounds and sights of Halloween. Bring out your witch's hat or mask and let your dog get accustomed to seeing you or family members wearing these crazy outfits. Visit your neighbor's zombie lawn display. Practice greeting with NO JUMPING in public and at your doorway. Team up with doggie friends for extra practice and fun. Consult a trainer for a semi private obedience refresher.
3. Have a family meeting and plan where your dog will be when visitors arrive. Does your dog like his crate? Prefer a gated area? Be careful that he cannot clear the gate by jumping. Provide plenty of exercise first, then provide a quiet place possibly with Animal Planet on to screen out the doorbell. If planning in advance you can also check out boarding overnight. Most places require an interview and it is a good idea to set the evaluation and appointment up ahead of time.
4. Not only is chocolate dangerous to dogs but also the plastic bags, and assorted sweet and tempting items like sugarless gum which is also toxic to dogs. Keep all candy up high and away from your curious canine.
Have a safe and Happy Halloween with your furry family members!
Dorice Stancher MBA, CPDT
Owner, Canines Can Do, llc
www.caninescando.com
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