Halloween can be fun or scary for pets. These tips provided by the American Kennel Club and the ASPCA will help you and your pet enjoy a safe holiday:

jane-bernard-logo   1. Strangers in stranger garb can alarm your dog, and frequent rings of the doorbell may cause excessive barking. Keep your dog away from the front door or in a separate room during trick-or-treat hours.

   2. Don’t leave your dog outside where it could become prey for pranksters who have teased, injured and even stolen pets on Halloween.

   3. Walk your dog early Halloween night and hold the leash firmly. Dogs don’t understand masks and can be overwhelmed by shrieking children.

   4. If your dog wears a costume, be sure it does not restrict movement, hearing or the ability to breathe, bark or see.

   5. Dress up your dog a few times before Halloween to get it used to wearing a costume.

   6. Don’t force your dog wear a costume; it may cause unnecessary stress.

   7. Never give your dog candy. It cannot properly digest sugary treats. Chocolate, in particular, is toxic to dogs.

dog 1   8. Keep your dog away from lighted pumpkins, which may cause fires if tipped over.

   9. Warn children not to harass or pull pranks on dogs. Dogs will often bite to protect themselves and their property.

   10. Beware the elements. If it’s warm, costumes should be lightweight, the walking route short and water in plentiful supply. If it’s cold, minimize exposure to wind and be sure your dog wears a sweater and boots if necessary.

   Paws till next time — Jane

JANE BERNARD is director of the LaPorte County Small Animal Shelter. Visit the shelter at 2855 W. Ind. 2; hours are Monday, Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Or call 326-1637. To view pets available for adoption at the shelter, visit http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/IN89.html.