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.

As veterinarians, one of the most common concerns we hear from animal owners is how to protect their furry friends from fleas and ticks. These parasites not only cause discomfort and itching, but they can also transmit diseases and infest your home. Without proper treatment, they can make your four-legged family members (and other members of your family) downright miserable, and that’s nothing no loving animal owner wants!

Many pet owners associate heartworm with dogs, but it’s also a potentially devastating disease for cats, too. Cat owners must be aware of the signs and symptoms, as cat heartworm that has progressed to the adult stage becomes very difficult to treat and is often fatal. Prevention is the ultimate goal due to the severe nature of an infestation and to ensure the longevity of your cat.

There's a lot of talk about the luck of cats, especially black cats. Some people believe they're lucky, while others think they bring bad luck to humans. There are also plenty of myths about cats’ own luckiness, like whether they always land on their feet when they fall.

The United States is home to myriad cat breeds, each with its own special set of characteristics. While some people may prefer a certain type of cat based on appearance, others may base their decision on personality or health concerns. Regardless of your preferences, there are certain breeds that stand out among the rest. Here are the top cat breeds in the United States, according to The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA).

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.