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.

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.

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!

Dog heartworm is a dreaded diagnosis that can mean extreme discomfort for your dog, but it’s also a disease that is highly preventable. Thanks to effective monthly preventatives, dogs are suffering from heartworm disease far less frequently and enjoying a high quality of life. However, no preventative measure is 100 percent effective; therefore, dog owners must know the signs and symptoms of heartworm so quick action can be taken when suspected.

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.

Every pet owner wants to bring along their four-legged family member when they set out for a fun adventure, including camping. However, camping excursions must be carefully planned, from understanding campground rules to ensuring your pet is safe in an unfamiliar outdoor environment. June is National Camping Month—the perfect time to safely explore how to take your pet along for a multi-day camping trip.