Let's talk about what"surviving" the day. Here are a few hints to keep your babies safe and secure:
Keep your goldens and other dogs out of the room where the trick or treaters' door is. You don't want your dog barking at them, you don't want to scare anyone, and in his excitement, you don't want your dog to knock any ghosts on their butts.Another reason not to have your dog in that room is the one-in-a-million chance he'll bolt for the door. You may have a poodle or other dog who has never ever done that and you think would never do that (someday I'll tell you about my golden retriever who I was sure would never bolt). But if your dog becomes afraid or overwhelmed, it is possible. You don't want to be running down the block, past your neighbors, wildly calling for your dog who is still running because he can't seem to get away from all those witches and warlocks.
The last reason not to allow your dog in the room where the trick or treaters arrive is that your guard will be down. You'll be busy smiling and giving snacks to all of your visitors, sneaking a sip of a drink during a lull, running to the bathroom whether there's a lull or not. And guess who is waiting for you to make that huge mistake? ... Your loving, wonderful dog. You're distracted/gone for a few seconds. You come back and the snack bowl is empty. You stare at your dog who smiles sheepishly back at you with tiny candy bar wrappers stuck to his teeth.
So enjoy Halloween. Leave your dog in a comfortable area. Stop by to visit and hug and pet. Give him a Halloween treat every now and then.
And when those little candy-bandits have all gone, you and your dog can relax together, safe and sound.
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