Halloween is a festive time of year for everyone in the family, including pets! Dogs and Cats should not miss out on the excitement of dressing up just because they have four legs. Make sure your dog and cat costumes this All Hallow’s Eve are safe, fun and unique!

Top Five Costumes for Dogs and Cats

1.Spooky Standards

You can’t go wrong with tried-and-true Halloween characters. A black hat and tutu can transform your pet into a delightfully wicked witch. A simple white sheet can turn your best friend into a spooky fiend. Just make sure it covers the animal’s body and not his or her face. Looking for something traditional that is a little less scary? You can’t go wrong with a soft pumpkin costume.

2.Fandom Favorites

You can find a host of ghosts on October 31, but what about a costume that represents your personality? Star Wars themed cosplay abound for pets. Princess Leia, Yoda, and even Chewbacca is easy to find. You could just as easily outfit your pet in a trenchcoat and tie for a Doctor Who inspired look. Add wings to make your pet Castiel from Supernatural. Practically any fandom can inspire a great pet costume.

3. Delicious Dishes

Dressing dogs at hotdogs has become a favorite among pet owners. Costume pieces made to look like tacos, hamburgers, pizza slices and more are readily available for your four-legged friends.

4. Honoring History

Historic icons can be excellent choices. Turn your dog into George Washington with a powdered wig and a tricorn hat. Add a blazer to complete the look. Other historic icons can include Abe Lincoln, Amelia Earhart, Genghis Khan or Cleopatra. Basically, any figure with an easily recognizable look is a good option. You can also choose famed landmarks, like the Great Sphinx of Giza or the Statue of Liberty.

5. Comic Characters

Sometimes you just want to put a smile on someone’s face. A funny costume for your pet can be easily found in stores and online. Choose from famous figures, like Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz or Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Give your pet a career. A lumberjack or a firefighter costume may be perfect. It is always fun to dress an animal like another. Look for fish, flamingo or cow dress-up items for a night of trick-or-treating fun.

Tips for Halloween Safety

The costume is only a small part of having a good night. The most important component of a memorable holiday is making sure it is safe.

• Keep your pet leashed or harnessed at all times. Even if you are accustomed to having your pet off leash, the night will present a number of new, exciting and scary adventures. The chances of your dog or cat running away are high. This is true whether you are outside or celebrating the holiday with friends. A party atmosphere can be too much for any pet.
• Always have appropriate lighting. Reflective tape on costumes ensure that your dog is visible. Add light sticks and carry flashlights whenever possible.
• Stay away from candy. You might be trick-or-treating with the kids, but that doesn’t mean your pet gets to indulge. Some types of candy can be harmful or even fatal if swallowed. Make sure your pet doesn’t get into the chocolate.
• Test the waters. Your dog might behave in an unexpected way when faced with ghouls and ghosts of all shapes and sizes. Take your trick-or-treating slowly at first. You will be able to gauge how your pal will respond as the night wears on.
• Know when to stop. Like children, pets can get overwhelmed. Recognize the signs that the evening needs to come to a close. Head home from trick-or-treating or the party knowing that you and your pet have provided a fun night for everyone.