It's that time of year when ghosts and goblins, fairy princesses and pirates are out roaming the streets asking for candy. While this is a fun and exciting time for children (and many adults too!), you will need to take a few extra precautions to ensure that your pet enjoys the evening too.

Keep your pet away from trick-or-treaters and Halloween festivities. Many dogs and cats are easily frightened by people in costumes. If you are having a party at home, keep your dog away from the festivities and occupied with a long lasting chew or toy. Lots of people, strange smells, and loud noises can spook even the calmest of animals.

Keep your companion animals in a closed room with food and water. Cats are natural escape artists and can easily slip, unnoticed, out of a door opened for trick-or-treaters. A frightened dog will bark or lunge at unsuspecting trick-or-treaters. Be sure all pets are wearing collars and ID tags in case of an accidental getaway. And don't leave your pet alone in the yard - he is an easy target for pranksters.

Keep decorations out of your pet's reach. Lit Jack-O-Laterns pose a real fire risk as they can be easily tipped over by a curious cat or a wagging tail. Pets also run the risk of getting tangled in decorations or receiving a deadly shock from chewing on electrical cords.

Keep the candy for the kids. Chocolate contains a lethal ingredient called theobromine, and the darker the chocolate, the more theobromine it contains. Candy wrappers can also be harmful if swallowed. If you want to give your pet a sweet treat, offer her a few of her favorite treats.

Dress the children, not the pets. Most pets do not like, or are even frightened by the constraints of a costume. Some costumes can also impair your dog's sight, hearing, or ability to breathe. Stick with Halloween themed collars and leashes if you want your pet to look the part.