Dr. Richter explains why most pet food is highly processed and why he sees it as a major contributor to the inflammation and age-related conditions he treats.

Dogs who run for the water bowl after eating kibble are usually reacting to a lack of moisture in dry food, more than too much salt. It's like eating a bowl of crackers or popcorn.

Allergies, overweight pets, treats and dental health all connect back to what we feed, and Dr. Richter points out that pets are 100% dependent on us for what they eat.

His label-reading tip: watch for "ingredient stacking," where several carbohydrates are listed separately so the meat looks like the first ingredient, even though the carbs outweigh it combined.

Candy bowls left within reach are an easy accident, and Halloween through the holidays brings veterinarians plenty of calls that start with "my dog ate…"

Peanut butter with xylitol is a problem; plain peanut butter is less so. What was eaten, how much and how big your pet is all matter.

Anything long and skinny, such as ribbon, string and (soon) tinsel, can cause a "linear foreign body," where the intestines bunch up around it and surgery may be needed.

Keep craft supplies off tables and counters while you work, then keep finished décor out of reach.

Flashing lights, noises and giant inflatables can frighten pets, and a scared pet may bolt or develop behavior problems.

Angela and Dr. Richter remind us that pets can't tell a toy from food, and by the time a swallowed object is obvious, it may be too late. Prevention beats cure.

Pets recognize us by our faces and movement, so masks and even hats can upset them.

Dr. Richter's strong recommendation: keep pets indoors in a room where they can't get out when the door keeps opening. Most dogs are better off staying home from trick-or-treating.

Fight or flight: it's mostly flight, so make sure microchips are up to date. A cornered or surprised dog may bite, which is why you don't put your dog in that situation.

Dressing pets up? Know your pet. Some love it, and some look embarrassed. And your pet is not a small human.

Dr. Richter's soapbox moment: keep cats indoors all year. Outdoor cats face cars, stray dogs and coyotes, and cats are hard on wild birds.

At parties, keep pet birds away from the festivities and the drinks.

Birds are prey animals and stress easily. For backyard chickens, the best advice is a well-fortified coop that fireworks can't scare them out of.

Nothing makes fireworks night easy, but thunder shirts help, and veterinarians can discuss calming medications for pets with strong reactions.

Create a cozy pet-friendly space in the house, stay with your pet and make them feel as safe as you can.

Watch for changes in appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, withdrawal, hiding or trembling. If something seems off, see your veterinarian before it becomes a crisis.

Dr. Richter's emergency kit? Your own eyes. He also suggests setting aside a little plain, unseasoned turkey or vegetables so your pet has a treat of their own, and reminding holiday guests not to feed the dog.

Angela's reminder: ask who you're doing it for. Keep your pet family member safe, happy and well, whatever social media says is popular.

Inflatables, moving props and lights can spook dogs, especially at night. Walk during the day, change your route or play in the backyard instead. And skip the cat walk.

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