Pet Parents Spend $370 Million on Halloween Costumes

If you’ve strolled down the aisles of your local Target or pet store, you’ve probably noticed a plethora of pet costumes flooding the aisles. Yes, the Captain America costume is cute, and yes, it will totally round out your group costume idea to dress as the Avengers, but have you ever stopped to wonder how much pet parents like you are actually spending on pet costumes?

According to NJ.com, a study by the National Retail Federation found that pet parents will spend about $370 million this year on costumes for their dog or cat. That’s up nearly $40 million from what was spent last year and is a lot more than the $80 million consumers spend on candy and decorations.

If you’re one of the millions dressing up your dog or passing out candy, be sure to follow these guidelines to ensure your pooch stays safe and doesn’t feel scared during the night. Remember, while Halloween is fun for humans, some dogs may become distressed from the noise and costumes that come with this holiday.

If your dog is wearing a costume, be sure he can move around freely, ensure no accessories can get caught and it’s not fastened too tightly around his neck. Our i Love Dogs’ Ask A Trainer, Eugenia Vogel, also recommends being attentive so that your dog doesn’t have any chocolate. It’s also a good idea to get your dog used to the doorbell before the 31st.

Here are dog-friendly Halloween events across the country that are just beggin’ to be visited.

PHOTO: istolethetv

Amelia LeRutte

Amelia Lerutte is a public relations and social media expert, and a pack leader to a couple derpy Boston Terriers, a lovable Leonburger and a Keeshound. When not writing or promoting the i Love Dogs brand, Amelia is an avid NHL fan, ice hockey player and video gamer.