While many may be concerned about the safety of children during Halloween, don't forget about your furry friends. Candy and costumes also can be a danger to pets.

Jeff Forman/JForman@News-Herald.com
Aimee Kaija's boxer Roxy wears a tutu
for Halloween 2009 during a visit to PetSmart
in Mentor. Kaija lives in Mentor.

Some advice for the pet owner this Halloween (click through to the sources to find more information and tips):

• Animal-proof your candy stash (from Petco's "The Chilling Effects of Chocolate")
• Let your dog meet your child in costume so he is not frightened later (from Petco's "The Chilling Effects of Chocolate")
• Keep jack-o'-lanterns and candles out of reach of animals and their tails (from Halloween Safety Guide)
• Don't let animals (especially black cats) outside, or keep them in a separate room during trick or treat at parties. Noise and doorbell-ringing may stress them out. (from AMVA's Paws for Pets)
• Dress your pet in reflective costumes, and don't leave a dressed-up pet alone because they make chew or choke on their costumes (from About.com's Veterinary Medicine guide)

For more tips, check out ASPCA's Halloween Safety Tips for Pet Parents.


-- Cheryl Sadler
CSadler@News-Herald.com