Dog costume do's and don'ts for Halloween events

October 23, 11:57 AMSF Dogs ExaminerShelley Frost

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The classic Dog As Pumpkin costume (Courtesy MHS)

A recent poll by CARE2 asked the question "Do you think it is cruel to dress your pet up for Halloween?" Forty-two percent of responders believed this was more stupid than cruel, while 25% felt dressing animals in costumes took away their dignity.  Only 19% felt animals could care less, while a mere 3% shrugged off animal concerns altogether.

Carrie Harrington, Marin Humane Society (MHS) Communications Manager says, "Pet costumes should not constrict an animal’s movement or ability to see, hear and breathe. Costumes should be flame retardant and non-toxic, and any small or dangling accessories that can be chewed and swallowed should be removed. Costumed pets should never be left unattended. And if they hate it – take it off!"  For more tips on humane halloween costumes visit this link to MHS.

Howl-O-Ween Pet Costume Contest

The Marin Humane Society, one of the leading progressive humane societies in the Bay Area, is hosting a photo contest dubbed the Howl-O-Ween Costume Contest where celebrity judges Mike Nicco of ABC7 and Celeste Perry of KOFY Wag Wednesday will choose the winner who will receive a a gift certificate for grooming service courtesy of Aussie Pet Mobile Grooming and a basket of goodies for their pet.

To enter your costumed pet in the MHS Howl-o-ween Costume Contest, e-mail digital photos to Halloween@marinhumanesociety.org by midnight, October 31st or mail prints to MHS, Howl-O-Ween Costume Contest, 171 Bel Marin Keys Blvd., Novato, CA 94949.

PET COSTUMES AND MORE AT DOLLY'S STORE
 Visit Dolly's Treasures NEW website a unique boutique for pets and their people, features several humane pet costumes to choose from:  Dougzilla,  Lil' Stinkers Skunk, Heidi Puppy, Dorothy, Bumble Bee, cowboy and cowgirl.

Dolly the shopkeeper at her store

Aspen wants to meet you

DOGS OF THE WEEK
Marin Humane Society
Aspen
2-year-old
Spayed Female, 32lbs
English Setter Mix
 
Aspen can count her lucky biscuits and thank the big dog in the sky. With her striking features we can only surmise her lineage is part English Setter, Spaniel with a little Basset Hound thrown in for good measure. Working with great groups like Compassion without Borders, our Pet Partnership Team is able to bring in wonderful dogs like Aspen. We think Aspen may have some hearing loss. The great news is she loves to play with plushy toys, and is just learning how to retrieve a tennis ball. Aspen believes with a little patience and guidance there is a perfect match for everyone.
 
Ideal Home: Best in a home with children 16 years or older
 

Harbanera says "hi!"

Harbanera
7-month-old
Spayed Female, 40lbs
German Shepherd
 
Habanera is one hot chili pepper! The only way to cool her down is to give her TONS of exercise and training. She is young and still has tremendous puppy energy and curiosity. She will need vigilant management when you first bring her home. She will likely exhibit some separation anxiety and will likely be destructive when left alone if not properly managed. Because of her exuberance and size, we recommend families with children 16 and over. In fact, an active family who has a strong interest in dog training and who is familiar with the breed would be the best situation for Habanera. She is also a good candidate for dog sports. Habanera is a lovely representative of her breed but be prepared to spend a great deal of time in training. You will be rewarded with her love, devotion, and loyalty!
 
Ideal Home: Best in a home with children 16 years or older
 

Harley will laugh with you too!

San Francisco SPCA

Harley (A8037488)
A 10 year old lab mix – maybe some Great Dane or Wolfhound, I’m a happy, friendly older gentleman who adores playing fetch and going for long walks. If you love snuggling up at the end of the day, and have an extra hand to give belly scratches, we might be soul mates. True to my Retriever stereo-type, tennis balls are my number one love - Fetch World Series anyone?
I wish this photo has feel-o-vision, so you could experience my deluxe super soft coat...I’m like velvet to your fingers!  A lot of folks might be nervous about an older fellow such as myself, but I can;’t see why?  I’m housebroken, I’m full grown, and I know the value of love from my best human friend…might that new one be me?   See my video style at www.youtube.com/sanfranciscospca.

Carlie (A08194410):
I am a 3 month old Chihuahua mix.  I am a wiggly, friendly young gal.  Even though I am still recovering from some skin problems (my hair is still growing back!), I am ready to head to my new home.  Since I am still a puppy, I need a family that is committed to spending lots of time with me so that I get everything a puppy needs - training, socialization, and lots of play!  I enjoy playing with other dogs and I am doing a great job of getting socialized to the city - I'm already used to lots of loud noises and other city sounds.  It sometimes takes me a couple of minutes to warm up to a brand new person, but once I do, I'm everyone's best friend.  With lots of love and help from my new adopter, I'm going to be a great little dog.

 Carlie wants a house with a walk-in closet for his sweaters.