Introducing Theo (A517515), an 11-month-old Mastiff mix dog. This sweet and playful pup loves dressing up in festive pumpkin costumes. He loves rolling around and snuggling on the grass (or anywhere else) and always has a treat ready. Hot dogs and cheese are his favorite foods. Although he is still learning about the world, his friendly and bouncy energy will bring lots of joy to his forever home. Theo is available for a 10-day adoption trial. Don’t miss your chance to meet this boisterous boy! For more information, visit pasadenahumane.org/adopt. (Photo courtesy of Pasadena Humane)
Halloween is fast approaching! At Pasadena Humane, this means the return of our beloved annual competitive office decorating contest.
We’re also excited about this year’s new activity: the Barks & Boos event on Sunday at the Los Angeles Arboretum. Our first spring collaboration with the Arboretum – Barks & Brews – was such a success that we are doing it again with a new twist.
This is the second time dogs have been allowed into the garden, and proceeds from dog admission fees will be donated to the Pasadena Humane Society. Of course, this October event wouldn’t be complete without a costume contest.
Additionally, there will be a special book signing of former Walt Disney Imagineering President Bob Weiss’ newly published novel Ghost Dog, with 20% of proceeds going to Pasadena Humane . Fittingly, one of the costume contest categories will be the Best Ghost Dog award.
Before you let your pet dress up, animal training manager Rochelle Guardado answers some frequently asked questions about pet costumes for Halloween.
Is it okay to dress up my pet for Halloween?
While some pets enjoy the attention and warmth that wearing clothes provides, it’s common for furry pets to find it uncomfortable. Cats are especially sensitive to new or unfamiliar sensations, such as wearing costumes. Unless your pet is already used to wearing vests and jackets, dressing up for Halloween can feel more like a trick than a treat for your pet.
What should I pay attention to when it comes to pet costumes to keep my pet safe?
If your pet enjoys dressing up, look for lightweight fabrics that can be secured with Velcro and don’t need to be worn over the head. The costume should allow for free movement without interfering with walking. Avoid accessories such as stuffed animals and strings that could be mistaken for toys.
How do I get my pet used to the costume?
Don’t wait until showtime to try them on. Before putting on the costume, let your pet smell the costume and let your pet hear the sound of the Velcro and snaps. Try pairing sounds with treats. Gently drape the costume over your pet’s body so they can feel the weight of the costume. Please summarize briefly.
How can I tell if a costume is causing my pet stress?
Let your pet’s body language tell you how he feels about the new morning. A lowered posture, licking lips, ears pinned back, or unusual movements are signs that your pet is uncomfortable.
Some pets will show obvious signs of distress, while others may feel silently confined or closed off. These pets are less likely to protest, but may become violent if a series of stressful events occur, such as being approached by a stranger (especially if that stranger is dressed as a scary clown). It becomes more sexual.
What are suitable alternatives for pets who don’t like costumes?
Your pet can also join in the fun by wearing a festive collar or bandana.
When getting into the Halloween spirit, it’s important to consider how the spooky season affects animals
Pets should always be kept on a leash or kept safely indoors. Hide candy out of reach of pets and dispose of wrappers in a secure trash can. Fake spider webs may be great for creating a gory vibe, but they can trap and harm local wildlife.
Tickets for Sunday’s Barks & Boos are still available at arboretum.org. In addition to costumes, this dog-friendly event benefiting Pasadena’s humanitarian efforts includes craft beer, food trucks, a Wiggle Waggle wagon filled with adoptable dogs, and a dog agility event hosted by a dog training team. Includes courses. thank you.
Dia DuVernet is president and CEO of Pasadena Humane. pasadenahuman.org
