Heat Alert !

Do not leave you pet alone in the car, even for short periods of time. Even with the windows down, the temperature inside your car can reach dangerously high levels.

If your pet spends a lot of time outside, make sure they have access to shade and plenty of fresh water.

Take your dogs for walks early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the hottest parts of the day.

To prevent painful burns on their foot pads, do not walk your dog on hot black top or asphalt.

Brachycephalic breeds (dogs with short pushed in faces), older or younger dogs, and rabbits are more susceptible to heat exhaustion.

If your pet gets overheated, the best way to cool them off is to immerse them in water right away (use a hose for larger dogs and a bathtub for smaller animals). Contact your veterinarian immediately.

Pool Safety

Do not let your pets in or around the pool unattended to prevent accidental drowning.

Solar swimming pool covers can be deceiving to your pet! They may walk onto the surface resulting in accidental drowning.

Do not let your dog drink pool or pond water.

Cook Outs

At family cook outs, make sure your guests do not feed your pets. Table food can upset many pet's stomachs.

Rib and chicken bones can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea as well as life-threatening intestinal obstructions.

Corn cobs can be equally as dangerous because they sell up in your pet's stomach, resulting in obstructions.

Toxin Exposure

Avoid exposure to pesticides and herbicides.

Make sure your pet does not walk or lay on recently treated lawns. If you have your lawn treated, ask you lawn company to use pet-friendly chemicals.

Cocoa Mulch is toxic. If your pet ingests cocoa mulch, call your veterinarian immediately. This can cause symptoms similar to chocolate toxicity.

If you use over-the-counter flea and tick products, make sure that it is labeled for use on your pet. Many products labeled for use in dogs can be toxic to cats, puppies, kittens, and rabbits. Your veterinarian carries many safe and effective flea and tick products.

Many plants in your garden can be toxic to your pet, if ingested. Some of these toxic plants include lilies, daffodil flowers and bulbs, Holly berries, Rhododendrons, Yews, and many species of mushrooms. If your pet ingests a plant in your garden, and you are unsure if it is toxic, call your local poison control center or contact your veterinarian immediately.