Plan a Halloween Party for Dog Lovers

All dog lovers know that when Halloween goes to the dogs, it is not a bad thing. Dogs in costumes are cute-- this just cannot be denied. Here are ideas and tips for a unique Halloween party-- a Halloween party for dogs and their owners.

All canine guests should be current on shots and should be used to socializing with other dogs.

Plan the Halloween party's start time for early afternoon or evening.

If the party is held too late, it will interfere with the canine guests' ability to wind down before bedtime. Get feedback from everyone who plans to attend. Ask your friends what time will work best according to their schedules and their dogs' schedules.

Set an ending time for the Halloween party.

This is for the dogs' benefit as well as yours. The party should probably not last longer than two or three hours. Since this party is intended for the dogs' enjoyment as well, you don't want to stretch it out too long. Overstimulated or tired dogs are not happy dogs.

Keep the Halloween party small.

You should stick with around five canine participants. Even if they are used to large play groups, you want them to have a good time and you don't want them to feel overwhelmed. If you live in an area that remains warm enough for an outdoors party, that would be ideal and more people and their dogs could attend.

Be sure to take a lot of photos.

Photos of the dogs and their humans in costumes can be turned into nice gifts later for each of the human guests. You can enlarge the photos and frame them, or turn them into personalized cards for everyone.

Make a treat sack for each dog.

Consult with each owner beforehand to make sure their dog is not allergic to any particular food or treat. Make sure the treats are safe-- choose biscuits rather than chews (rawhide chews and other chews can cause problems for many dogs--this includes the popular Greenies which have been indicated in obstructions in some dogs). For the sack, you can use small brown lunch sacks which are available at many grocery stores.

Serve only pet-safe snacks and foods at the party.

Avoid serving anything containing chocolate. The chance that a canine guest will get hold of the chocolate is very high. Chocolate is toxic to dogs (and cats) and is not worth the risk. All food served at the party should be safe for dogs in case any falls on the floor or gets stolen from the table. For example, do not serve anything containing grapes, raisins, onions, or garlic at your Halloween

Don't forget to buy a good cleaner, such as Nature's Miracle, before the Halloween party to have on hand for accident clean-up.

Stock up on treats, dress up your dog, and call your friends. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can have a unique Halloween party that will create lasting, fun memories.