Hallowe’en outfits for dogs are cruel, says charity

BATTERSEA Dogs and Cats Home has urged pet owners not to dress up their dogs for Hallowe’en because it is “cruel”.

While social media are flooded with pictures of dressed-up pets, with owners proudly showing off their costumes, the charity has warned that some costumes can cause extreme stress.

Chloe Jackson, canine and behaviour training manager at Battersea, said: “Not every dog is comfortable with a lot of handling and some will become very stressed if you try to put them in a costume … Once they’re dressed, even the most confident dog can be scared if the outfit is constricting their movement or covering their face.”

Ms Jackson suggested: “If you do want to get your dog in the Hallowe’en spirit, wearing a festive collar or bandana is an option.”