As spooky season approaches, costumes become extremely popular. Transforming your pet into a cute puppy may seem like fun, but veterinary charity PDSA for pets in need is reminding pet owners about the impact dressing up can have on the health and wellbeing of their furry family members. I advise you to think about it.
PDSA veterinarian Gemma Renwick said: ‘We may love dressing up as goblins and ghouls for Halloween, but our pets don’t have the same enthusiasm as us. Even seemingly harmless seasonal fun can have a negative impact on their health.
Costumes can reduce mobility
“Some costumes are more of a prank than a reward, preventing your pet from walking comfortably, grooming themselves, or even going to the bathroom. Pet clothing is made from thick materials. Worse, your pet may suffocate on the small parts, as they are often made with a layer of fabric that prevents them from regulating their body temperature effectively. There is a risk of injury if your clothes become tangled or caught.
Dressing up doesn’t come naturally to pets
“Imagine being wrapped up like a mummy without even asking for it. Dressing up doesn’t come naturally to pets, especially cats, and being forced into clothes can be especially distressing. Pets tell us how they’re feeling through their body language and actions. Find out what they’re trying to tell you to make sure your furry friend is happy. , and it is important to consider the situation.
If your cat tries to hide, crawls low to the ground, makes unusual noises, or even shows signs of aggression, it could be a sign that your cat is uncomfortable.
“On the other hand, dogs can show stress through behaviors such as licking their lips, yawning when they’re not tired, and panting when they’re not warm or exercised. Dogs can show stress through behaviors such as licking their lips, yawning when they’re not tired, and panting when they’re not warm or exercising. They may become pinned down, their tails wedged between their legs, and their bodies become stiff or tense. They may try to look away from what you are doing or even try to run away. If you ignore these signs, your canine friend may resort to aggression as a last-ditch attempt to communicate that he’s uncomfortable.
Costumes can hide communication signals
“Dogs rely heavily on body language to communicate with each other, and costumes mask a dog’s natural behaviors, which can obscure these signals and lead to confusion and aggressive encounters. When a dog is stressed, their attitude toward other pets may change, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts.
Your pet is not a party prop
“While costumes may be fun for us, it’s important to remember that pets are not toys or Halloween party props. Don’t dress them in clothes that tease them or put them in uncomfortable positions. That’s not exactly a considerate act. Our pets are adorable just the way they are, but there are other ways to involve them this Halloween, like cuddling up on the couch and enjoying a spooky movie night together. there is.
When should I dress my pet?
“However, there are times when pet clothing can be beneficial. While not all dogs need it, a comfortable winter coat can help keep dogs warm in cold weather, especially those with thin fur or those with certain medical conditions.” In some cases, special boots may be used to protect your puppy’s paws, especially if the paws are prone to cuts and scrapes or are recovering from a paw injury. there is.
“If your pet is willing to wear one, a close-fitting surgical vest can protect the healing wound from excessive post-surgical licking. Therapy tops can help reduce anxiety and stress. High-visibility jackets, on the other hand, help ensure your pet’s visibility and safety on dark winter walks.
“While it may be tempting to dress up your pet, it’s important to prioritize your pet’s comfort, safety, and dignity. If the clothing isn’t serving the desired purpose, you can free yourself from the constraints of a costume. , it’s best to let your pet enjoy their natural look, after all, they’re already your little pumpkins!
For more advice on dressing your pet, visit www.pdsa.org.uk/dressing-up.
