10-28-02: Halloween goes to the dogs

10-28-02: Halloween goes to the dogs

By MARGIE WUEBKER
The Daily Standard

    The season for ghosts and goblins has arrived with area youngsters marching in Halloween parades and going door to door in search of sweet treats.
    Some folks are likely to find more than two-footed visitors on their doorstep this year. Look closely because that bumble bee, horned devil, plump pumpkin or menacing witch might have four feet and a wagging tail.
    "We've had people come and buy costumes for their pets because it's a fun thing to do," says Nancy Hanna, groomer at Perfect Paws Pet Grooming & Supplies, 107 N. Mill St., Celina. "There is a Rhodesian ridgeback going as a bumble bee and donšt be surprised to see a cocker spaniel as a devil."
    The well-natured dog is apparently throwing caution to the wind, donning a high-necked red cape and a matching hat complete with satiny horns. The hat stays put thanks to an elastic band around his chin. The bright orange pumpkin pup ensemble is sure to draw "oohs" and "aahs" with a whimsical jack o'lantern adorning the back.
    You won't see Witch Spot riding around town on a broom, but he or she is sure to stand head and shoulders over the rest with a black cape and matching black hat. Like the other offerings, the ensemble costs about $10.
    In addition, the shop can order bride doll, daisy dog, lil' angel, top dog (complete with black hat and tuxedo) and doggie bones (with the entire canine skeletal system embossed on the black costume.)
    The pet shop also offers the perfect Halloween treat for four-legged visitors - miniature dog biscuits encased in clear plastic bags decorated with white ghosts.
    Dorothy Garwick, owner of Garwick's The Pet People Inc., 6057 Ohio 707, Mendon, does not stock costumes for the bewitching season but she can order them from a supply company.
    "In 42 years of business, I've never had anyone come in requesting a cat costume," she says with a chuckle. "Apparently having a well-dressed cat is not a concern."
    Dog owners apparently feel the urge to dress Fido for the festive Christmas season. Garwick's offers bright red Santa outfits as well as angel costumes complete with wings and sparkling halos. Perfect Paws has another alternative - brightly colored turtleneck sweaters decorated with sparkling Christmas tree appliques.
    Thanks to a woman veterinarian, pets and their owners can don matching glitter or color streaks in their hair for Halloween or the approaching holiday season.
    "I developed Critter Glitter and Color-Wands because so many little girls and young women enjoy putting glitter and color streaks in their hair for parties and holidays," says Dr. Dawn Currie Thomas, president of Veterinarian's Best Inc. "I thought their pets should be able to join in the fun."
    Scented Critter Glitter Cologne Gel comes in gold, silver, red, purple and blue. The gel is applied all over or as a thick layer on individual strands of hair. The color and glitter gradually wears off, or they can be removed by brushing or shampooing. Color-Wands are cosmetic applicators that can be used to streak the hair or the haircoat gold, silver or bronze. In addition to adding welcome color, they also condition the hair of humans and pets alike.
    Some dogs prefer to make fashion statements throughout the year. Perfect Paws offers a veritable wardrobe for the discerning canine. What pooch wouldn't enjoy a trip outdoors in a Sherpa-lined fleece jacket or a two-tone parka complete with removable drawstring hood. It's just the thing for keeping the ears, back and heinie warm. Macho types are drawn to matching faux leather jackets and hats.
    A diehard Celina bulldog will strut his or her stuff in a jogging outfit bearing the school name. A bright yellow raincoat boasts an elastic hood, a Velcro belly band and, last but not least, a treat pocket to keep dog biscuits nice and dry even in the midst of a downpour. Patriotism is apparently the in look with knit sweaters bearing American flag insignias or sparkling stars. There are even dog boots with ribbed cuffs to keep furry tootsies warm on the coldest day.
    Like Halloween and Christmas fashions, everyday styles come in a range of sizes to fit the little guys (toy poodles and Chihuahuas) to the big boys (German shepherds, rottweilers, Dobermans, Labrador retrievers and Great Danes).

SUBSCRIBE TO THE DAILY STANDARD

Phone: (419)586-2371, Fax: (419)586-6271
All content copyright 2002
The Standard Printing Company
P.O. Box 140, Celina, OH 45822