There’s no doubt that autumn in the Midwest is a gorgeous time of year. Crisp air, clear skies and crimson-colored leaves give way to apple picking, visits to the pumpkin patch and the family festivities of Thanksgiving. But for me, the cute-‘n-creepy costumes of Halloween have always been a high point of the season.

Unfortunately, my pets don’t seem to share quite the same level of enthusiasm. Maybe that’s because many of the trick-or-treat activities we humans consider “fun” can prompt everything from pet panic attacks to (yikes) potential poisoning! Never fear, though: This handy checklist will help arm you against scary surprises … so your pets can stay safe and secure, instead of stressed out and spooked.

Hazard #1: Chocolate & Other Sweet Treats
Let’s be as clear as possible about this: Chocolate, in any form, is extremely toxic to dogs and cats. That’s because it contains both caffeine and theobromine – both of which are difficult for our furry friends to process. The darker the chocolate, the more serious the possible damage.  So keep this confection hidden away! A similar warning applies to grapes and raisins. While most of us consider these a healthy people snack, grapes and raisins can actually cause kidney damage in certain dogs and cats. And be especially wary of xylitol, a non-caloric sweetener that’s often used in sugar-free gum and candy products. In many kitties and canines, xylitol can prompt an abrupt, dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Want to help your furkids celebrate fearlessly? Consider carob. It looks just like chocolate — but in treat-sized quantities, it’s harmless to our four-legged friends. You can also try pet-friendly sweet treats like Sam’s Yams, which are made from natural sweet potato… and fantastic for cleaning teeth and gums!

Hazard #2: Doorbells
My rescue pups Grant and Maizy would put doorbells right at the top of their terror list. Grant dislikes loud, sudden noises and super-shy Maizy has figured out that doorbells often mean  guests (signaling an instant attention overload). If your pets are driven daffy by things that go ding-dong, a Thundershirt can often help to soothe their anxiety. This simple, stretchy garment comes in multiple sizes, and wraps snugly around your pet’s ribcage with Velcro tabs. The result is a “swaddling” effect that can reduce the panting and hyperventilation often provoked by pet nervousness. The manufacturer claims a calming success rate of 80% — and in my household, that’s been proven many times over!

Hazard #3: Strangers & Visitors
Pets instinctively guard their own territory. So it can be extremely upsetting when an endless parade of unfamiliar, giggling ghosts and goblins arrive at the door… or worse, head straight into the house for snacks or a noisy party full of music, flashing lights and scary sounds. If you host trick-or-treaters in your home — in any capacity — be extra-sensitive to your pet’s needs. Unless your dog or cat is extremely comfortable around strangers, it’s often best and safest to let him/her hang out in a secure, quiet room away from the action. In pronounced cases of anxiety, an overnight stay at the local pet spa can give furry friends a reassuring break.

Hazard #4: Ethanol
This substance is also known as drinking alcohol. That’s right: Your favorite festive beverage (or even flavored syrup) could send Fido to the emergency vet. Some owners think it’s super-cute to let their pet have a few sips of beer. Unfortunately, however, ingesting even small amounts of ethanol-containing products can lead to digestive upset and even organ damage in dogs and cats. The problem is, you never know which pet might suffer a reaction, or how bad it might be. For a fun, non- alcoholic alternative, buy a few bottles of broth-based, meat-flavored Bowser Beer and let your pet party away.

Hazard #5: Cool-Weather Chemicals
As outdoor temperatures wane and neighborhood get-togethers move inside, many of us may use rodenticides around the house or add antifreeze to the car. Don’t forget, these are poisonous chemicals that  can be extremely harmful — even deadly — to both humans and household pets. But it’s especially important to remember that many cats and dogs are actually attracted to the sweet taste and/or smell of such compounds. If you decide to use these products in and around your home, do so with extreme care, constant supervision and a vigilant eye toward cleaning up spills right away.

Here’s wishing you and your pets a safe, secure and ghoulishly good time this Halloween season. Happy Autumn, everyone!