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.

What Is Cushing’s Disease In Dogs?

Cushing's, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, is a disease that occurs most commonly in dogs when their adrenal glands produce too much cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that is released under stressful events. Cortisol is needed for normal bodily function, but when too much cortisol is produced, it can have harmful consequences.

Every pet owner will need a pet sitter at some point, whether they’re vacationing at a resort that isn’t pet-friendly or need to travel for work and can’t be distracted by their pet. In observance of Pet Sitter Safety Month throughout May, we’re diving into best practices for pet sitters to ensure they’re prepared and that the pets left in their care are safe. Much like babysitters, pet sitters are entrusted to provide excellent care and be ready for anything—especially emergencies.

Hip dysplasia is most common in large breed dogs. Most people have heard of hip dysplasia but don't necessarily know exactly what it is. Hip dysplasia occurs when there is abnormal development or growth of the hips. It essentially means that there is a poor fit between the "ball and socket" of a hip. This occurs when a puppy is growing. The head of the femur (thigh bone) is the ball, and the acetabulum is the socket part of the pelvis.

A fun fact about Cinco de Mayo is that this Mexican holiday is rarely acknowledged in Mexico, but is widely celebrated in the United States. Americans have observed the holiday since the 1960s when Mexican-American activists wanted a day set aside to honor their Mexican culture. In recognition of this special day spotlighting the Central American country, we’re shining the light on five fascinating dog breeds that hail from Mexico.

May Day is a day of celebration, and it is no different for our furry friends. While the original May Day takes place on May 1, dogs get their own May Day for Mutts on the first Sunday in May. This year, it takes place on May 7. This day is a special opportunity to celebrate mixed-breed dogs.

If you share your home with a mixed-breed dog, May Day for Mutts is a perfect time to spoil them. Let’s look at seven ways to celebrate May Day for Mutts with your mixed-breed dog.

As veterinarians, we have had the pleasure of caring for countless dogs, each with their own unique personalities and quirks. Some dogs are shy and reserved, while others are outgoing and full of energy. But no matter what their individual temperament may be, one thing is for sure: There’s nothing quite like a dog’s smile!

If you were to meet Howie with his cute bow tie and his wagging tail, you would never know that one fateful day last spring his mother thought he was on death’s doorstep. When Howie arrived at my clinic he was painful to the touch, had a high fever, had no appetite, and was very lethargic. He had no desire to walk around and we could barely touch him without him yelping in pain. After carefully examining him, my top two differentials were a back issue or Lyme disease.