The last Friday of May is dedicated to National Heat Awareness Day, which spotlights heat-induced medical emergencies in humans and pets. Recognized on May 26 this year, we’re taking this opportunity to educate pet owners about the risks and signs associated with excessive heat, and preventative measures to ensure every pet can avoid potentially fatal heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heatstroke. As we transition from cool months to hot summer days, it’s critical to know the warning signs to avoid an unnecessary trip to the emergency veterinarian.

Summer is the perfect time to get out and enjoy those warm, sunny days with your furry friend. Unfortunately, this time of year can be hazardous for pets. If you are not careful, your dog or cat could experience serious injuries, illnesses, or worse. As veterinarians, we want you and your pet to enjoy the rest of a healthy, fun-filled summer, so we're sharing information about some of the most common summertime pet hazards below.

Drowning is a familiar term to all of us—a traumatic event that occurs when a person or animal is submerged in water for too long and deprived of oxygen. However, a relatively uncommon but related term is secondary or "dry drowning." Water is aspirated into the lungs and causes serious complications, often hours or even days after water exposure. Dry drowning, also known as aspiration pneumonia, can affect humans and their pets.

Barbecues, fireworks, and other activities are Fourth of July staples. But if you are a pet parent, all of the festivities might be more stressful than fun. Fireworks often trigger intense fear and anxiety — especially in dogs. Barbecues can be anxiety-inducing (and dangerous for dogs), too. They are often noisy, and many pets just don't enjoy all of the unfamiliar people, smells, and sounds.

Despite what you may think, yeast infections, NOT ear mites, are the primary cause of ear infections in dogs. Dogs love to get yeast infections in their ears. Most veterinarians can likely count the number of dogs with ear mites they’ve seen during their practice career on two hands.

When any holiday rolls around, we want our pets to be involved in the fun festivities since they’re a beloved member of the family. However, a few holidays require keeping an extra eye on our fur friends, and Halloween is one such holiday. When pets’ stress levels are elevated and outdoor dangers pose a threat to their safety, it’s best to be on high alert. Below are some tips to help keep your pets safe and stress-free on this spectacularly spooky night.

October may be mostly about ghosts and goblins, but it also marks another significant and distinctly less eerie event, National Pet Wellness Month. Keeping up with your dog or cat’s wellness care needs is an essential step in maintaining their health and helping them enjoy several happy years by your side.

Labor Day Weekend marks the unofficial end of summer, and it’s the perfect time to make a few more memories before the onset of autumn. Whether you are spending the holiday at home, hanging out with friends and family, or squeezing in a last-minute vacation, it’s crucial to keep your pet’s safety in mind. Like any holiday, Labor Day poses some risks to your furry friend. Here are a few tips for enjoying a safe and happy holiday weekend with your dog or cat.