In New Orleans, Halloween goes to the dogs

At last, Louisiana has landed a spot at the top of a hit list. And it’s all because we’ve let Halloween go to the dogs.

Yes, it seems that Louisiana is No. 11 in the nation for taking our four-legged friends trick or treating. In costume (of course).

The Howl-o-ween tabulations come courtesy of a survey of 3,000 dog owners by Big Heart Pet Brands. Virginia was No. 1 in doggy trick or treaters. Go figure.

Here in Louisiana, it seems that 44 percent of us dress our dogs in costume for Halloween, and 21 percent take them trick or treating. Another 30 percent greet trick or treaters at the door with Fideaux alongside. So don’t blame me if your toddler comes home with a packet of jerky.

If you want to get in on the trend, and don’t want to recycle Mardi Gras’s canine tutu, here are a couple of last-minute ideas for dog costumes, from the pet food company. Really.

Chia Pet: Glue-gun plastic leaves onto an orange doggy t-shirt.

Big Bad Wolf: A shower cap, wig and old nightgown become Little Red Riding Hood’s worst nightmare. And maybe ours, too.

Super(dog)hero: A cape goes a long way in New Orleans. In any size.