Launched in 2009 by The American Kennel Club and ADT Security Services, National Pet Fire Safety Day recognizes the estimated 500,000 pets affected annually by fires in the home. Held annually on July 15, this day is set aside to increase awareness and educate pet owners about fire risks and preventative measures to ensure your pet’s safety.

One of the challenges many cat owners face is getting their cat to the vet clinic. Many of us are fellow cat parents, so we can appreciate the arduous task this can be. As veterinarians, we also know that regular vet care is essential for our feline friends' overall health and longevity. Many cat owners put off wellness exams and other vet visits because of this challenge, but doing so can have dire consequences.

Spring is in full swing, with summer fast approaching. This means that flowers are on every corner, freshly cut on most tables, and possibly blossoming in your own garden. If you’re partaking in this extravaganza, more flower power to you. Be aware, however, that if you’ve got a furry feline that is fairly curious (read: all of them), there are some plants and flowers that are toxic or at least potentially toxic to cats.

Rabies. The word conjures an image of an angry animal frothing at the mouth and running wild ready to sink its teeth into anything that moves. While that’s unpleasant to consider, what’s worse is that such a bite is often fatal.

Effective vaccines can give you peace of mind when it comes to the good health of your pets. And in fact, many states and municipalities require proof of immunization for dogs and cats. Can you imagine encountering a rabid dog on your daily walk with Fido?

August 22nd is “Take Your Cat to the Vet Day.” This day was created to help give cat owners a reminder that their feline family members need to have routine checkups just as much as their canine and human counterparts.

As the warmer months arrive this year, so does “kitten season.” Most areas of the United States experience kitten season, when cats go into heat and begin having litters of kittens, between April and October.

Outdoor temperature plays a role in health from both an Eastern and Western perspective. A healthy body—whether human or animal—should be able to adapt easily to changes in weather, until it starts getting into extremes. However, if the body is already out of balance, your dog or cat may experience more inflammation as the temperature rises.