Halloween is right around the corner, and there’s no reason why it shouldn’t be just as fun for your pets as it is for you! While you’re preparing costumes, decorations, and goodies for this October, consider making one of these super spooky DIY toys for your pet too.
Don’t forget to always supervise your pet when playing with these handmade items!
Ghost Ball
The majority of dogs and a select handful of cats are eager to play a game of fetch with their owner. Here’s a toy that you can use for either!
You Will Need:
- A durable tennis ball (Kong is a good option for dogs)
- An old white pillow case or sock
- A pair of scissors
- A thick rubber band
- A non-toxic black marker
First, pull the sock or pillow case over the ball to create a tight, smooth surface. Take your rubber band and tie together the excess material so that it sits directly beneath the ball. Now, spread the hanging portion of your pillow case across a flat surface and use your scissors to cut vertical strips about an inch in thickness.
From here, braid the pieces together (three strands apiece) and secure with a knot at the end. Use your non-toxic marker to draw a spooky face, and you’re done!
Give it a toss and watch Buster become…Ghost Buster.
Spellcaster Cat Wand
What a perfect toy for owners that are feeling particularly witchy for the holidays! Every witch needs a side-kick kitty and a good wand. You can find all of these materials in any craft store.
You Will Need:
- Wooden dowel
- About three to five feet of mesh tubing, any color
- Cool temp glue gun and scissors
- Two-inch thick ribbon, any color
- Trinkets, if you wish
Take your scissors and cut a strand of tubing. Use your fingers to push one end of the tube upward as you would with a slinky. Then, gently push one end of the wooden dowel about an inch of the way through. Secure with glue gun.
Almost there! Take your ribbon and cut about three inches of length. Wrap it over the mesh tubing that is attached to the dowel. Secure with glue gun.
Attach a few spooky trinkets such as feathers or toy mice and you’re done!
Candy Crinkle Toy
While some dogs enjoy the sound of a squeaker, others find satisfaction in the crinkle of plastic. Your dog may not be able to eat candy, but they’ll love this candy-themed toy!
You Will Need:
- An empty, dry water bottle
- Candy-themed socks (there are great options on Amazon)
- Scissors and a glue gun
- Packing envelope (optional)
Before you order or purchase anything, make sure that the socks you choose are calf to knee-length!
Cut the packing envelope along the edge so that it opens like a book. Wrap it around the water bottle and trim the excess. Remove the packing envelope for a moment so that you can apply a small line of glue around the edges only. Carefully wrap the packing envelope around the water bottle once more and hold the edges down for about sixty seconds.
(If you do not have a packing envelope, move onto the sock step.)
Now, cut off the toe portion of the sock and pull the water bottle through to the center. Tie off each end, and you’re finished! If you want to spice it up a little, you can cut the excess portion of the knot into thin strands and braid them to give your dog a rope-like texture.
And if you don’t have time for some DIY, visit your nearest Petland to pick up some spooky seasonal toys and treats!
