Canadians are expected to spend an average of $300 this Halloween, or even more if you have a four-legged friend.
According to a Value Village survey, the average dog owner will spend an extra $28 outfitting their pets.
From a little pumpkin, to a little princess, Barking Babies in Yaletown has dozens of costume options for dog owners to choose from this Halloween.
"If you don't want a full costume, there's other options, like this is a bat harness, so you actually attach a leash and off you go with the harness, or even like a fun superman tank top," said store owner Nancy Jelenic.
Costumes range from accessories like hats for $5 to more elaborate outfits that cost as much as $40. Nearly a quarter of all Canadian dog owners say they plan to coordinate their costumes with their pets and almost 20 per cent plan to take their fur babies trick or treating.
"I love the idea of the costumes for dogs because they're already adorable as they are, but dressing them up gives pet owners a chance to make them even cuter, and celebrate their dogs and get in the festive spirit of Halloween," said dog owner Michelle Barile.
When dressing your pet up, it’s important to remember a few safety tips:
- Choose your costume carefully. Make sure leg and neck openings are big enough to allow movement, and nothing is obstructing the dog's vision.
- Make sure there's nothing on your dog's costume like sequins and ties that can be pulled off and swallowed.
- Add reflective tape or LED lights to your dog's costume so they're not trampled by kids or hit by a vehicle
- Keep pets away from the candy bowl. Chocolate is toxic to cats and dogs and pets have a tendency to ingest both the candy and the wrapper.
