Spooky pet safety. Tips to keep your furry friends healthy this Halloween – Monroe News

Jackie Monteer, Humane Society of Monroe County director, advises pet owners wanting to take their dogs walking with them to make sure their pets aren’t stressed and want to go.
Use a secure harness or leash that will offer better control and choose a familiar route. Consider using a reflective collar or light-up harness to keep your dog visible.
“When it comes to a costume, make sure it fits well,” Jackie Monteer said. “It should not drag on the ground where the animal or a human would trip on it. You want the costume to be comfortable for the animal same as you would a child.”
Monteer said pets that are nervous or bothered by sounds can be placed in a room where they have a bed and water with a television or radio on to drown out the sounds of trick or treaters.
“Try to keep the door open or stay close to the door so there is not a lot of knocking or ringing doorbells. That is usually what gets the dogs going,” she said. “A lot of dogs like to sit in the doorway so make sure to have them leashed and connected to you or a heavy piece of furniture. You can even use a baby gate to keep them safe so they can’t run out the door.”
