A golden retriever has been praised for his bravery after finally working up the courage to walk past a neighborhood home adorned with spooky Halloween decorations.
In a video on TikTok that has been viewed over 750,000 times, 3-year-old dog Kevin captured hearts as he gingerly made his way past the scary decor.
The video’s text overlay read: “Finally getting the courage to walk past the spooky Halloween decorations.”
Kevin lives in Houston, Texas, with his owner Lauren Stroud, who told Newsweek: “He’s always been a little spooked by Halloween decor, but that was the first time we got it on video. My husband took the video and was like, ‘Look, Kevin did the funniest thing on his walk.'”
Kevin’s usual routine consists of sniffing grass and enjoying leisurely walks, but lately, he’s become more aware of the spooky decorations popping up around the neighborhood. Stroud said: “I think he prefers Christmas decor… less spooky!”
Screenshots from the moment Kevin worked up the courage to walk past the decorations.
@kevinsgoldenyears/TikTok
The video of the moment Kevin managed to pluck up the courage to get past the decorations has gained plenty of attention online, delighting animal lovers.
One viewer, Gabs, said: “My dachshund started having an argument with a hanging ghost decoration,” while another, Andrea Blizman, commented: “Oh I love him so much. This is just the cutest.”
Other viewers related to Kevin’s fear, like TikToker Ellie Failla who wrote: “It’s okay Kevin, I too get scared of spooky Halloween decorations,” and Mg446 added: “Omg so brave!”
This is far from the first time a Halloween decoration has concerned a pet. Another golden retriever called Monte went viral last year after he shied away from the seasonal decorations in his neighborhood, while a black Labrador made his feelings clear about his owner’s new decoration: a plastic black dog wearing a skeleton costume.
As Halloween approaches, Katie McCaul, dog expert and pet nutritionist from dog food brand Tuggs, has urged pet owners to be vigilant to potential dangers.
Chocolate, especially dark or cooking varieties, contains theobromine, a chemical toxic to dogs that can lead to serious health issues if ingested. While Halloween decorations can pose a risk too.
“Many Halloween decorations such as string lights, small ornaments and fake cobwebs all pose a choking hazard to your pet,” McCaul told Newsweek. “Take caution if your dog or puppy is particularly curious by making sure decorations are securely fastened and out of reach, ensuring they are not left alone with these hazards.”
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
