Halloween Costume Ideas

It's the time of year when mums and decorative cabbage fill flower pots, and jack-o-lanters light up porches. It's also when we start receiving emails with photos of funny dog costumes. Here are a few of our favorites so far.

Gives a new meaning to fish out of water.

How much did they have to pay the cat to agree to this one?

Wow, now THIS is creative!

We think the dog is a vegetarian based on her expression.

This may be the funniest costume of all!

Ever since the first cave dog donned a saber-toothed tiger costume, people have been debating the merits of dressing up dogs. Billy doesn't dress up Zeke or Arthur. Jill, however, crafts elaborate home-made dog costumes every year and strongly believes that a dog should express his creativity. That said, always consider Fido's comfort and safety.

If Fido doesn’t mind dressing up and you determine this by checking with an objective third-party, go right ahead and have a ball. Whether he’s Bark Vader, Dogzilla or Hairy Potter, keep these safety rules in mind:

• The costume must be comfortable and not obstruct your dog's vision, hearing, breathing or movement.
• Never force your pooch to wear his costume if it makes him stressed, scared or nervous.
• Be sure the costume allows your dog to wear his collar, identification and leash.
• No doggy bags! Keep your dog away from the Halloween candy.

How do you feel about canine costumes? If your pooch is dressing up, please send us your photos to share with everyone in Happy Dog Land.

July 4th: Pets and Fireworks Don't Mix

Even though it seems logical to bring Fido along to outside celebrations, sometimes it is better to leave him home. Fourth of July is not a dog-friendly holiday. Many dogs are easily spooked by fireworks. Indeed, dogs often become noise sensitive as they age.

When fireworks are booming, Fido should always be inside, sequestered in a safe, quiet room. In addition, never leave Fido unattended in your yard on July 4th (or any other time). Stray fireworks can land there or the noise of neighboring fireworks can scare him and he’ll desperately try to escape. Whether or not he succeeds, he can seriously injure himself.

If you do bring Fido with you to a celebration, keep him on leash at all times. Your normally calm dog may dart off unexpectedly and terrible accidents happen to dogs off leash, especially when you throw pyrotechnics into the mix. Fido should be nowhere near cherry bombs, Roman candles, sparklers or anything else that involves fire and gunpowder. If he gets too close, he can be burned, lose an eye or suffer hearing loss from the explosions.

Immediately dispose of all unused fireworks and remnants, as they are toxic if ingested. After the holiday, look for firework pieces when you’re out walking or playing. Protect everyone’s pet by throwing away anything you find.

Besides, if you leave Fido safe at home, you can relax and celebrate the birthday of our great nation!

Valentine's Day Safety For Dogs (Yes, You Read That Correctly)

Valentine's Day is fun to share with your loved ones -- both the two and four legged variety.  It is, however, a plant and chocolate intensive holiday, which means DOGGIE DANGER ALERT!  

Keep your bon bons, champagne, wine, candles, flowers and plants well out of Fido's reach. Chocolate and dogs don't mix, and alcohol is incredibly dangerous too.  Flowers, such as Lilies, Rhododendron, Azaleas and Tulip bulbs and thorns on roses range from disastrous to deadly. Remember: dogs can perform exceptional feats of agility if food or smelly or interesting items are involved.  Always operate under the assumption that your dog can and will can get to your paramour's generous gifts -- even if they are on a high counter.

Before the 14th rolls around, check out the ASPCA's Valentine's Day Tips for additional information including links to lists of toxic food and plants.

If your precious pooch ingests or comes in contact with a dangerous food or other substance, contact your veterinarian or emergency veterinarian immediately.  The ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center is another excellent resource.  These experts are available 24/7, 365 days a week at (888) 426-4435.  A $60 fee applies.

So enjoy a safe Valentine's Day and give your pooch a hug and smooch from the folks at Happy Dog Land!

Photo of Billy, Rafa and Louis by Michael Vistia, Vistia Designs