Halloween may be 'scary fun' for children and adults --- but it can be a deadly, daunting and confusing experience for companion animals.

 Follow these tips to have a safe and happy Halloween:

*Don't force companion animals to wear costumes. For an animal, wearing a costume causes confusion, fear and discomfort. Studies show animals forced to wear costumes endure high levels of stress. 

*Keep your cat indoors at all times during the week of Halloween and for the week after. Cats are often stolen and used for sacrifice around Halloween - especially black cats.

Help your companion animals find quiet, secure areas away from Halloween activities. The strangers in costumes may frighten and even threaten dogs and cats into unpredictable behavior.  

Frequently opened doors are opportunities for stressed animals to escape. Keep a close eye on your companion animals as trick-or-treaters come and go. Make sure they have proper identification on them at all times; microchips, updated tags and tattoos are best to ensure your lost animals find their way home! 

Keep candy out of reach of companion animals. The smell of candy can be very tempting. Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your companion animals have ingested something harmful, as many treats, including the wrappers, can be toxic. 

Keep companion animals away from dangerous Halloween decorations. Burning candles, jack-o-lanterns, streamers, hanging lights and lawn decorations can be safety hazards.