For many dogs, cats, and other pets, Carnival is primarily a source of stress: loud music, crowds, and costumes can cause fear and anxiety. The German Animal Welfare Federation expressly warns against dressing up pets or involving them in the colorful festivities as “accessories.” Animals react to costumes and the hustle and bustle of Carnival with fear and insecurity. In addition, costumes cause animals to be misunderstood.
“Animals are not carnival props – whether for a social media photo, a video, or a street parade. What is fun for some people is pure stress for many dogs and cats. Costumes restrict their freedom of movement and communication and can cause anxiety or even be dangerous,” says Nina Brakebusch, specialist advisor at the German Animal Welfare Federation. “If you love your pet, you respect its needs – and let it just be an animal during Carnival.”
Carnival parades and parties are not suitable for animals due to the crowds and high noise levels. These events should therefore always be attended without animals.
COSTUMES HINDER ANIMALS' BODY LANGUAGE
Dogs, cats, and other pets communicate with their fellow creatures primarily through body language. Costumes that cover the back, ears, or tail significantly restrict this important form of communication. Signals such as raised neck hair or movements of the ears and tail, which may indicate fear or threatening behavior, can no longer be properly displayed and perceived. This increases the risk of misunderstandings both in contact with other animals and with humans.
MATERIALS USED IN ANIMAL COSTUMES POSE RISKS
Many animals perceive unfamiliar clothing on their bodies as threatening and unpleasant. Costumes can chafe, impede breathing, or interfere with temperature regulation. There is also a risk that animals will chew on ribbons, buttons, or small accessories and swallow them. Many of the materials used in costumes contain substances that can be toxic to animals. Allergic reactions and the risk of strangulation cannot be ruled out either.
