Getting our puppies used to new experiences in a safe way is a vital part of our ongoing training to prepare them for life as a guide dog. This year, we had an extra special opportunity to team up some of the UK’s most iconic spooky attractions for a unique socialisation event.
Over the past few weeks, guide dog puppies have visited The London Dungeon, Blackpool Tower Dungeon, Edinburgh Dungeon and Warwick Castle - venues famous for their eerie and spine-chilling atmosphere. Whilst we don’t usually recommend taking dogs to scary attractions, , the teams were able to pare back the experiences to make them dog-friendly for the special occasion, allowing our puppies to experience the sights, sounds and smells common around Halloween in a calm and controlled way.
Accompanied by their volunteer puppy raisers, the dogs encountered actors in costumes, heard spooky sounds, and explored various decorations and props. All these experiences help them build confidence so that when Halloween arrives, they’ll be better prepared to handle the unexpected.
Haley Andrews, Puppy Raising Operations Lead at Guide Dogs, explained the importance of early socialisation: “Puppies are naturally curious but can become fearful when confronted with unfamiliar scenarios. Early socialisation is crucial to helping them handle situations calmly and build the confidence they need to guide their future visually impaired owner, no matter what surprises they encounter.”
Halloween Tips for Your Own Dog
If you want your family pet to enjoy Halloween as much as you do, here are a few tips to help keep your dog safe and happy:
Slowly introduce costumes: Start getting your dog used to wigs, masks, hats and costumes by first bringing them out in a neutral environment at home. Once they are comfortable with them, you can slowly begin to dress up in different combinations but monitor your dog’s body language and pair this with positive reinforcement while allowing your dog to have plenty of time to investigate.
Gradually build up sounds: It’s important your dog becomes comfortable with new sounds, so they’re not frightened when there’s a sudden noise. If your dog appears relaxed or ignores the sound, you can gradually increase the volume and duration.
Decorate in stages: Instead of decorating all at once, do it a little bit at a time and try to stay relaxed while doing it. Try leaving a pumpkin by the front door so the dog gets used to the smell and sight of them.
Respect your dog’s comfort levels: If your dog is frightened by people in costumes, unexpected noise, or increased activity in the neighbourhood, create a safe space for them and prepare enrichment activities to keep them relaxed indoors.
Avoid scary attractions: Although guide dogs visited Dungeon locations this was done in a controlled environment - it is not advised to bring your dog to any scary events, parties, or attractions that could be unsettling for them.
Avoid dressing up your dog: Costumes can be stressful for dogs, as they may find them uncomfortable, hot, or restrictive. Leave the dressing up to the humans!
Keep Halloween treats out of reach: Many Halloween goodies, including chocolate, raisins, and the sweetener xylitol, are toxic to dogs. Ensure visiting children know not to share their treats with pets, and keep any sweets securely stored.
Guide Dogs’ puppy raisers play a key role in preparing these pups for their future roles. If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer and helping to train the next generation of guide dogs, visit guidedogs.org.uk/volunteer.
