Are you really going to make your dog wear that costume? Halloween and your pets...

It’s no wonder so many dogs and cats HATE Halloween...

Strangers, scary masks, weird behavior and humiliating costumes are probably not something most animals would choose to participate in. Here are some reminders from the ASPCA your pets would like you to consider:

• Chocolate in all forms—especially dark or baking chocolate—can be very dangerous for dogs and cats. Candies containing the artificial sweetener xylitol can also cause problems. 

• Popular Halloween plants such as pumpkins and decorative corn are considered to be relatively nontoxic, but they can leave your pet with stomach problems if they nibble on them. 

• Dress-ups can be a nightmare for some pets. Please don't put your dog or cat in a costume unless you know he or she loves it. For pets who prefer their own fur, costumes can cause undue stress. 

• If you do dress up your pet, make sure the costume isn't annoying or unsafe. It should not constrict the animal's movement or hearing, or impede his ability to breathe, bark or meow. 

• Most dogs and cats should be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treating hours. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful for pets and dangerous to visitors.