Over 30 million paw parents all over the world, according to a NBC News-reported study, spent nearly half a billion dollars in 2018 alone -— only on pet costumes.
Yes, pet costumes are big business, but also big fun, not only for fur moms and dads, but also for everyone into Halloween and Christmas revelries.
For those looking for funny and cute pet costumes this season, e-commerce sites, such as Temu, Shopee and Shein, offer a sundry of options — from the usual superheroes to classic Halloween like Chucky of Child’s Play and the priest in The Exorcist, to sarcastic ones like hotdogs for dogs and cat lady wigs for cats.
According to Dr. Stacy Eckman, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, in general, or depends on the pet on how tolerant it would be to pet costumes.
Eckman, however, gave some tips when giving costumes to pets.
First, he advised testing the costume first on the pet at least three times before setting off the pet to wear the costume on the holiday.
“Make sure that the costumes do not obscure their vision, do not block their nose or mouth so they cannot breathe, and that they do not trip over them,” Dr. Eckman reminded paw parents. “Avoid anything that encircles the head or neck or that blocks their nose and mouth.”
Take out attachments and other small components that may choke your pet. If you are to use fur color, make sure that it is made specifically for pets.
“Loud, flashy decorations with lights and sounds may be stressful for certain pets, causing them to harm themselves,” explained Dr. Eckman. “Dry ice, often used for the ‘smoking cauldron’ effect, may also be dangerous if the ice itself comes into direct contact with their skin.”
If your pet shows signs of discomfort, such as constantly scratching or pawing themselves, take out the costumes immediately.
Remember, although it could be fun to see your pets in costumes, it would be kinder if they are having fun in it, too!