Americans Go “Batty’ for This Year´s Hottest Halloween Pet Costumes and Treats

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Americans Go “Batty’ for This Year´s Hottest Halloween Pet Costumes and Treats

The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association Announces Emerging Trends in Halloween Pet Products as Well as Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe this Spooky Season

Greenwich, CT, August 20, 2003 — Jack-o-Lanterns, trick-or-treating, candy corn, and costumes are not just for kids anymore. As more and more Americans consider the family pet “one of the family’ it´s no wonder they´re looking for the best in Halloween costumes and candy for Fido and Fluffy. And manufacturers are not letting them down introducing more and more pet-friendly candy and costumes.

“SuperDog’ and “BatDog’ top the list of the hottest costumes on the market with traditional witch and devil costumes sharing the spotlight amongst the most sought after costumes for canines and kitties according to Rubie's Costume Co., Inc., the world's largest manufacturer and distributor of Halloween products.

“Puppy pilot’, a vintage cap with goggles and kerchief, is sure to be flying off of store shelves in the coming weeks as well as princess and angel costumes. Officials from Hanover Accessories which manufacturers Impawsters®, a line of fun, fashionable pet accessories say pet costumes are an emerging category in retail and that any items that spoof humans and make pets look more human-like are always popular.

Interested in looking ahead? “Aspen Tourist’ a pet costume inspired by the global surf/Hawaiian rage for humans consisting of a stereotypical tourist hat and lei combination will be hot next season according to Officials at Hanover.

When it comes to safe Halloween treats, consumers will surely be saying “Bone’ Appetit! Officials at Chomp, Inc. say pet “candy’ brands like Yip Yap® doggie breath mints, Sniffers™ beef and cheese “candy’ for dogs and Pit´r Pat® breath mints for cats are irresistible to pet owners as they are reminiscent of human candy, but safe for pets.

And, if you are interested in taking your pet Trick-or-Treating, there may be an event in your area that will provide a safe and entertaining environment for your pet. Look into pet-friendly destinations where you live. Contact your local chamber of commerce, pet stores and animal shelters for details. Many cities are now hosting pet parades and parties as well.

APPMA COO Bob Vetere said, “There are many pet products being manufactured now that contribute to a safe and enjoyable Halloween for families. From costumes as unique as those made for humans to safe treats and pet-friendly Halloween events, there is so much available to pet owners today.’

The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA) reminds responsible pet owners to keep the following tips in mind this Halloween to better ensure a happy and safe Halloween for the entire family:
        * Trick-or-treat candies for humans are not for pets: Chocolate is poisonous to many animals, and tin foil and cellophane candy wrappers can be hazardous if swallowed. Pets are important members of our families, but please remember to tell children not to share goodies with pets.
        * Be cautious of using candles in your pumpkins and consider safe alternatives that will not pose any threats of fire hazard or potential burns to your pets.
        * When dressing up a pet, make sure the costume isn't constricting or unsafe and be careful not to obstruct your pet´s vision. If your pet resists costuming, do not insist as it can cause stress to your pet. Never leave a pet in costume unattended.
        * Be careful your pet doesn't dart out through the open door as they might be frightened by trick-or-treaters.
        * Continual doorbell ringing and trick-or-treaters in costume can be stressful for a pet. Consider keeping your pet in a quiet and safe place on Halloween.

So bottom line is have fun, but think safety for you, your children and your pets this Halloween and you´ll be sure to have a ghoulishly good time!

# # #Founded in 1958, the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association is the nation´s leading not-for-profit trade organization serving the interests of the pet product industry and educating the public on the many joys and health benefits associated with pet ownership. APPMA´s membership consists of over 700 companies, which include both small businesses, as well as the nation´s leading pet product companies.