Sparky the Corgy from Walnut Creek loves playing dress-up. (Betty Costa)

Some folks need no excuse, but if you're looking for a good reason to dress up your pet, you can't really beat Halloween.

As long as the pet doesn't mind it and it doesn't put them in danger, experts say there's no reason why pets can't join in on the holiday fun.

We asked readers to submit photos of their decked-out dogs and costumed cats so we could share them with all of our readers. Here are a few of our favorites.

There's still time for submit your photos. Go to the Animal Life column at http://www.mercurynews.com/Animal-Life and look for the upload button. Or you can add your picture by posting it on Twitter or Instagram with the hashtag #mercdresspet.

-- Joan Morris, Staff

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Halloween goes to the dogs, and cats