I simply love this time of year. School is back in session, which means that college football is back; the leaves change colors to display nature in all her grandeur; the temperatures drop such that there is no need for heating or cooling your house; -- just open and close your windows as needed -- and Halloween arrives to kick off the holiday season. The spooky holiday is full of tales of mischief and mayhem and is all in good fun.

On this one night of the year it is best to keep your pets indoors for the entire duration. This will keep them out of harm's way from those who would tease, trick, scare or even steal your pet. There are those who believe that, in the name of the spooky holiday, it is OK to torture animals or even sacrifice them in a satanic ritual. Black cats are especially targeted, but all pets may be at risk. The best course of action is to keep your pets inside where they will be safe.

Another reason to house-up your pets is that costumes sometimes frighten or aggravate animals. I have a dog who absolutely hates clowns (don't ask me why). Imagine your normally friendly hound dog lying on the porch when a group of children dressed to the hilt in scary costumes approaches. Your dog may bolt never to return home again or worse, your dog may bite or attack the costumed kids. Don't give him the opportunity to do either -- keep Fido and friends inside in a quiet, secure location. Another hint: The living room is probably not the best place to keep them as the doorbell ringing and all of the kids and costumes may make it difficult to manage your pet.

Treats are great for the kids but not a good idea for your pets. Remember that chocolate can be deadly to your animal friends. Just as deadly are the tin foil and cellophane wrappers found around most treats. Keep the candy bowls and bags out of reach so there will not be any mistakes.

If you are thinking of dressing up your pet for the occasion, think hard. Many pets cannot handle the stress and will end up miserable at best. At worst they may tear off the costume and chew/ingest some of it causing distress and creating a potentially lethal situation. Also some costumes will restrict your pet's movement or sight or may even choke or strangle them. Unless you are certain your pet will enjoy the disguise, it's best to let him/her sit this one out.

Also keep in mind that your pet's tail could wreak havoc in a room with lighted candles. If your jack-o-lanterns have flames burning inside them, be sure to keep your pet away from them. An accident involving fire could be disastrous.

A last caution: Please be sure that your animal has some form of identification on before the festivities begin. Even the best laid plans can be foiled by a scared or tricky pet. Assuring your pet has a microchip, license tag or other form of pet ID on them before the night begins will help make it possible to locate your animal should it become lost.

Trick or treat everyone -- OK, just treats, please!