The Basset Puppy Had the Best Window Seat on Trick-or-Treat Night
Soft lamplight fills the room as a tricolor Basset Hound puppy rests his chin near the window and looks out into the evening. Outside, a small parade of costumed kids walks along the sidewalk: a witch in a pointed hat, a little ghost, a child in a green dinosaur suit, and another in a dark cape, all glowing under the street lights and glowing jack-o'-lanterns. On the sill beside the puppy sit a mug, a green blanket, and a little carved pumpkin.
On busy Halloween nights, a lot of dogs find the constant doorbell and costumed visitors exciting or stressful. Basset Hounds are usually gentle, but even calm dogs can be startled by unfamiliar masks and noises. A quiet room, a comfortable bed, a chew toy, and a closed door can keep a puppy relaxed while the candy is handed out. Make sure the puppy has a collar with a tag and that doors stay closed so he can't slip out. Letting him watch from the window can be a gentle way to meet the evening, as long as he seems calm.
We could call this watcher Waffles. He has the sad, soulful eyes of a Basset, but there's no sadness in him, only curiosity. Each costume that passes gets a long look, a slow ear flap, and perhaps a sniff of the glass. It's a good night to be a puppy with a window.
