Let’s be honest, there is something super fun about dressing up your pet. I’m not even necessarily talking about full, head to toe seasonal pet wardrobe (although, I do approve of pets with their own closets); even throwing on a cute bandana or a timely holiday costume will end in all smiles.

In celebration of National Dress Up Your Pet Day, we wanted to provide a few safe and fun tips to ensure that you have a fun day dressing up and that your pet steals the show.

DRESSING UP IS NOT FOR EVERYONE

First and foremost, their happiness is the number one priority. If your pet is having a major meltdown, or simply does not enjoy wearing clothes, then it’s time to move on and find a new favorite national holiday. Not every pet enjoys wearing heavy knit sweaters or uncomfortable tutus, no matter how much you want that perfect shot for your Instagram feed.

FIND SOMETHING THAT WORKS FOR THEM

Choose outfits that are comfortable over what you find to be cute, and check that the outfit or accessory fits. Restricting movement or the ability to breathe properly for prolonged periods of time can cause injury or in some cases, illness. Next, take into consideration your pets physique and environment to ensure maximum comfort. For example, if your animal has thick fur and lives in a hot environment maybe try a light tee or a bandana so they don’t overheat. If your pet has short fur and lives in the snow, try a sweater or insulated vest to keep them warm. Lastly, pets like to chew! Avoid loose or dangling pieces which can be a major choking hazard. It’s all fun and games until there’s a freak sequin accident!

TYPES OF CLOTHES FOR DIFFERENT ENVIRONMENTS

 

• Cold Weather Environments: Sweaters, vests, scarves, onesies, sweatshirts + hoodies, etc.

• Warm Weather Environments: Bandanas, bedazzled collars + harnesses, light tee’s + tanks, light dresses + skirts, etc.
  
  
  

There are plenty of ways to celebrate National Dress Up Your Pet Day; from photo shoots to fashionable walks around town. Some take their furry companions to the groomer to get them all dapper for the day while others take it a step further and dress up in matching outfits. Whichever way you decide to celebrate today, be sure your pet companion is safe and comfortable in the clothing, costumes, and accessories that you choose.

Not all pets are ready to be done up as fashion divas or adorable pirates that have little legs that walk towards you if angle is just right. If an article of clothing or accessory is too much, your pet will definitely let you know. One thing to keep in mind is that not all pets are created equal and they won't necessarily react in the same way. Not all animals freak out when they are uncomfortable or try relentlessly to free themselves from whatever you put on them. Sometimes they just sulk. So if your pet looks sad, just know that they probably hate whatever they have on even if you think it’s the cutest thing on the planet. If you know that your animal isn’t the biggest fan of dressing up in the first place, but you just have to be a part of National Dress Up Your Pet Day, we strongly suggest a bandana or a bedazzled collar. Stick to what they know and make sure that they are happy because this day is about them after all!