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.

One of the most anxiety-inducing experiences for pet owners is having to take their furry friend in for surgery. Whether it's a routine procedure or something more serious, no one wants to see their pet go through anything uncomfortable, and it's normal to feel a bit nervous when sending your four-legged best friend into surgery. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help make the experience as smooth as possible—both for your pet and for yourself.

From ligament repair to total hip replacement, dogs are subject to the same types of orthopedic surgeries as their human owners. Nearly all dog orthopedic procedures require at least a couple of weeks of post-op recovery, depending on the extent of the surgery and your dog’s age, requiring them to stay relaxed with limited mobility while they heal.

Is your fur baby destined to turn into a fur giant? If you own a large-breed puppy, they may be a lap dog now, but before you know it, they’ll be way too big for cuddles on the couch. Of course, your colossal canine will still be just as lovable, but you’ll need to know a few things about taking care of a large-breed puppy.

If you grew up in the '80s or ’90s, then you know the highlight of staying home from school sick was watching “The Price is Right.” For over 30 years, Bob Barker signed off with, “Help control the pet population. Have your pet spayed or neutered.” For those who have grown up in the 2000s, Drew Carey has continued the mantra.

Bloat in dogs is an extremely serious and dangerous medical condition that should be treated as a medical emergency. Even mild cases of bloat can turn fatal. Although the causes of bloat are still not clear, the symptoms that occur are fairly consistent and are a sign that you should seek immediate medical attention.