Believe it or not, those witches and goblins seen on city streets this time of year don't just scare us human types. Our fuzzy friends may also get spooked. Here are some tips about keeping Halloween safe for Man's Best Friend. First, let's talk house safety. The same rules that apply to children apply to your dog or cat. Votive candles are safest for candlelit pumpkins. Lighted pumpkins should be placed on a sturdy table, away from curtains and other flammable objects, and should never be left unattended. If you're still concerned, try using flashlights to light pumpkins and for other spooky effects. Decorations for special events, most often involving candles, account for an annual average of 800 home fires, causing nearly $4 million in direct property damage. Additionally, in the United States, more than 100 people die each year as a result of their clothing becoming ignited.

Just as you keep your home safe for visiting trick-or-treaters by removing garden hoses, toys, bikes, lawn decorations, or other objects that children could trip over, make your home safe for your dog. A curious puppy may decide that Mr. Jack-O-Lantern looks like a tasty treat. Save yourself a trip to the Emergency Vet and place all pumpkins (including the ones on the outside stoop) out of reach. Keep that candy out of smelling and pawing range, too. If your children are dressing as pirates or witches, make sure that swords, knives, wands and similar costume accessories are make of soft, flexible material.

Fear, though, is the biggest concern. Many dogs, especially the more protective variety who show protective instincts at the door should be kept in a controlled, safe and confined area of the home to avoid incident with trick-or-treaters. Behind closed gates in the backyard may not be enough. Curious children may approach and even the sight of these little ghoulish being may be upsetting to a defensive dog. If this is your dog's first Halloween, don't make the mistake of thinking he'll just "be good." If you force a dog to socialize where they may not be comfortable, you are putting your dog in a position of defense. They may feel a need to defend themselves. Such dogs may be kept in an isolated area of the home with a favorite toy during prime trick-o-treat time. For young puppies, this could be an excellent opportunity to socialize. This should be done calmly and systematically. Don't rush the dog. Make it fun and entertaining and use favorite treats. Make sure the kids are calm and relaxed. This may be difficult as they too are excited about being out and about). Make sure never to foster fear by consoling or sympathizing with a scared pup. Instead, encourage your puppy to investigate and reward for curiosity. And Happy Halloween!