Americans spent about $350 MILLION DOLLARS last year on Halloween costumes for their pets!  Some say their pets enjoy dressing up, but it's abundantly clear that not all pets do. The truth is that many pets can enjoy the game of dress-up, if the costume is suited well to their personality.

  But some pets will never be comfortable in anything but their old familiar collar.  Here are a few tips to keep in mind when selecting a costume for your own pet.

1. Know your pet.  If he seems uncomfortable, don't force the issue. It's not worth damaging your pet's trust in you.  Keep the following in mind, and ease into the process, letting your pet decide when he's had enough.
2. Shoes, booties, slippers, etc. are generally not advised, because pets find them very unnerving. Dogs use their feet to gain a sense of balance and physical stability, and booties interfere with that. 
3. Glasses and goggles can  interfere with a pet's essential sense of vision, and that can be very unsettling.
4. Hats and headgear can also be disruptive to his ability to relate to his environment.  Keep any hats small, well-fitted, and comfortable, or don't use them.
5. Always let your pet's safety and comfort level dictate how far you go.

Our Phoebe hates costumes.  She tolerates them, because she's a dutiful dog, but it's not fun for her, so we don't force it.  Fiona, on the other hand, absolutely loves to dress up. She loves the attention, and sees it all as a fabulous game.  But even Fiona would be upset if we put shoes or masks on her that blocked her ability to sense her surroundings.  Here she is in last year's fairy costume, tail going wildly, enjoying being the center of attention.