Simple Tips for Keeping Your Pets Safe in the Car

7 Essential Tips for Keeping Your Pets Safe This Hurricane Season

Hurricane season can be a stressful and dangerous time for both people and their furry friends. As storms approach, it’s crucial to have a plan in place to protect your pets from harm. Whether you have dogs, cats, birds, or small animals, preparation can make all the difference in keeping them safe and calm during a hurricane. 

Festive Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe During Holiday Gatherings

The holiday season is just around the corner, a time spent laughing and celebrating with the people we love most. While we're busy decorating our homes, baking holiday treats, and preparing for friends and family to arrive, it's important to remember that our furry friends are also part of the celebration. After all, nothing will put a damper on the festivities quite like a trip to the emergency vet! Luckily, there are steps you can take to create a holiday environment where you and your pets can both enjoy this joyous season to the fullest! In this guide, I will share some of the most common holiday hazards that can pose a threat to pets, such as toxic foods, dangerous decorations, and the added stress of social gatherings. Plus, I'll offer practical advice on pet-proofing your home, managing guest interactions, and creating a calming space for your pet. Common Holiday HazardsAs we deck the halls and prepare our mouth-watering festive feasts, we need to be mindful of the potential dangers facing our furry friends. From bright, tempting decorations to toxic holiday treats, even the most well-intentioned and responsible pet parents may face a holiday emergency.To help you avoid an unnecessary holiday disaster, here are a few common holiday hazards to be aware of:TinselA common holiday decoration, the bright shine and sparkle of tinsel screams Christmas. However, most pet parents aren’t aware of the risks of ingesting this festive garland. During the holiday season, tinsel is a common cause of bowel and intestinal obstructions, resulting in expensive vet bills, surgery, and even life-threatening emergencies.Holiday OrnamentsTinsel isn’t the only decoration posing a risk during this festive season. While many may look at a Christmas tree and see a collection of beautiful decorations, some pets see chew toys. Chewing and ingesting holiday ornaments can lead to choking, obstructions, or even death.A type of holiday ornament often seen on the tree of pet parents, salt dough ornaments are a hidden risk that you need to be aware of. The amount of salt in these ornaments can lead to dangerously high sodium levels in their blood, causing thirst, tremors, seizures, coma, or worse. If you choose to use this approach to make a cute paw print ornament to hang on the tree, make sure it is up and out of reach of your furry friends.Christmas LightsNot only do the glass bulbs themselves pose a risk to curious pets, but the electrical cords may also be tempting chew toys. Of course, chewing on any electrical cord can quickly turn into a life-threatening situation.When hanging Christmas lights in your home, tuck the cords away from your pet’s reach. If you have a dog or cat who tends to chew on things they shouldn’t, you may need to take extra precautions to keep them away from these risks. An exercise pen is a great way to set up a barrier around a Christmas tree, allowing you to enjoy the glow of the blinking lights while avoiding an emergency.Poinsettias and Other Holiday Plants While many pet parents are familiar with the toxic risk of poinsettias if a dog or cat were to ingest them, they aren’t the only toxic plants commonly associated with the holidays. Some other plants you should be aware of include: Holly MistletoeYew Lilies (Day, Tiger, Easter, Asiatic, Japanese Show)AmaryllisAnother plant-related risk to watch out for is the water under your Christmas tree. While keeping your tree watered is essential to keep it from drying out (creating a fire hazard), that same life-giving hydration is often a toxic mix. Christmas tree water may contain bacteria, mold, or pesticides. Not quite the refreshing drink your pet is looking for! Festive Snacks The holidays are often celebrated with good food – the center point of every festive gathering. But many of those holiday foods are also toxic to your pet(s). As you’re planning your holiday spread, watch out for these common toxic foods/ingredients: Chocolate Xylitol (artificial sweetener) Onions and garlic (in large doses)Macadamia nuts And more… This doesn’t mean you have to change your menu, but you do need to be careful when serving these dishes to your friends. Keep the serving dishes up and out of your pet’s reach and warn any guests about setting their plates down in your pet’s reach. In addition to the toxic risk these items may cause, there are other potential concerns surrounding holiday foods. High-fat foods like turkey can lead to pancreatitis. Meanwhile, foods with higher sugar content may trigger or worsen cases of diabetes and obesity. Alcohol Another common part of our festivities, most parties involve sharing a festive drink. From a glass of wine to your favorite eggnog (with a little bit of rum), there is nothing wrong with enjoying a little alcohol during the holidays – unless, of course, the one drinking it is your pet. Alcohol toxicity is surprisingly common among dogs or cats of any age. Why? These drinks often smell and even taste enticing, encouraging our pets to drink more than their fair share. But their small size means that they can’t handle nearly as much alcohol without trouble as we do. It doesn’t take much to make your pet feel sick or to create potential dangerous or even fatal side effects. Stress & Anxiety from Gatherings Your dog’s stress levels may not be considered a life-threatening hazard, but it can create an unpleasant or potentially dangerous situation if it isn’t properly addressed. In fact, stress & anxiety can cause health problems for your pet. When you take a pet who is used to their home environment being a calm, safe, and secure space and suddenly introduce a bunch of unknown people, excitement, noise, and activity, it may be too much for your pet. This doesn’t mean you can’t throw a holiday party – but you should take steps to manage the situation and set your pet up for success. This includes minimizing stress triggers, where possible.

Simple Fire Safety Tips That Could Save Your Pet’s Life

It’s something no pet owner ever wants to think about, but house fires happen fast, and when they do, our pets rely entirely on us to get them out safely. While most families have some fire escape plan, very few account for the animals in the house. Just ask Melissa Carter, a dog mom of three from Asheville, North Carolina. “A few years ago, we had a kitchen fire while I was at work,” she said. “Thankfully, it was put out quickly, but I kept thinking—if it had spread, what would’ve happened to my dogs? That’s when I realized we had no plan.” According to the American Red Cross, more than 500,000 pets are affected by house fires each year. And while many fires are unpredictable, some are started by pets - accidentally turning on stovetops or knocking over candles. Here’s how pet owners can lower the risk and be ready in case the unthinkable happens. No Open Flames Around Curious Paws Candles, fireplaces, and stovetops are major hazards in homes with pets, especially with curious cats and counter-surfing dogs. “I had a cat once who jumped on the stove and turned the burner on,” said Dr. Hannah Lane, a veterinarian in Portland, Oregon. “Luckily, I smelled the gas in time. After that, I bought knob covers and switched to battery candles.”Many fire departments also recommend using flameless candles, especially in households with pets left alone during the day.Keep Leashes, Carriers, and ID Tags HandyIf you have to evacuate in a hurry, scrambling to find your pet’s leash or carrier wastes precious seconds. Store them near the exit, along with a go-bag that includes food, water, and medication.“During wildfires in California, we saw a lot of people trying to carry dogs in their arms because they couldn’t find leashes,” said firefighter and pet safety advocate Jason McBride. “A little preparation goes a long way.”Microchipping your pet and keeping ID tags up to date is essential. If a frightened dog bolts or a cat slips out during an evacuation, this is what helps bring them home.Pet Alert Stickers Can Make a Big DifferenceYou’ve probably seen those little “Pet Inside” stickers on windows and doors. They’re not just for show; emergency responders really do look for them.“We always check the entryways for pet alert decals,” said firefighter Laura Kim from Denver, Colorado. “If we know there’s a dog or cat inside, we’ll do everything we can to get them out.”These stickers are inexpensive, and many shelters and vet offices offer them for free.Include Pets in Your Escape PlanEvery household should have a fire escape plan, but make sure it includes your pets. Assign one person to be responsible for each pet, and do occasional practice runs so animals don’t panic when it counts.“We’ve trained our dog Rufus to go to the door when the smoke alarm goes off,” said Marcus Hill from Austin, Texas. “It’s not perfect, but he knows something’s up when he hears it.”If your pets tend to hide when frightened, try to identify their go-to hiding spots and keep them accessible.When You’re Not HomeMany fires happen while owners are away, which makes it even more important to minimize risk. Unplug small appliances, keep doors closed to limit your pet’s roaming, and consider using smart smoke detectors that can alert you remotely.“I check our pet cam during my lunch break,” said Melissa. “It’s saved my sanity more than once.” In the end, it’s not about being paranoid, it’s about being prepared. A few simple steps today could be the reason your pet makes it out tomorrow. And for most of us, that’s more than enough reason to act.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

7 Tips for Keeping Your Dog From Getting Hit by a Car

Even though accidents do happen, there’s plenty you can do to prevent your dog from getting hit by a car. Here are our top seven tips for keeping your dog safe. Nothing is more devastating than losing a pet, but accidents do happen and there is often nothing you can do to stop them. Though you can’t sway the hand of fate, there are certain things you can do to minimize your dog’s risk for his own protection. Here are seven easy things you can do to help prevent your dog from getting hit by a car – keep reading to find out what they are. How to Keep Your Dog from Getting Hit by a Car As a dog owner, you are responsible for your dog’s safety. Here are some simple tips to follow to prevent your dog from running out into the street and getting hit by a car: Teach your dog to sit before going out the door. You can achieve this by giving him the “Sit” command before you open the door – just be sure to do it every time you take him outside and reward him for responding correctly. Related: How To Help A Dog Hurt In A Traffic Accident Always put your dog on a leash before you take him outside. This primarily applies to the times when you take your dog out the front door – you may not need a leash for the back door if your backyard is fenced.Check your fence regularly to make sure it is in good repair – this is especially important after a violent storm.Have your dog spayed or neutered to reduce the desire to roam. Intact male dogs are particularly insistent about getting out of the yard if they know that a female in heat is nearby.Teach your dog to come when called and work with him often to reinforce this command. If your dog happens to run out the front door, you should be able to call him back to you. Related: 5 Things Know-It-Alls Said Would Kill My Dogs (But Proved To Be Wrong) Always know where your dog is before you open the door and make sure every member of your family does the same.Consider having your front yard fenced if you live near a busy street and if local ordinances allow it. What to Do if Your Dog Gets Hit As careful as you might be with your dog, accidents do happen. In the event that your dog does get hit by a car, you need to handle the situation very carefully. The first thing you should do is approach your dog with caution – a dog in pain may react unpredictably and you don’t want to add your own injuries to the list. If your dog remains calm, approach and assess the damage. If it is safe and possible to do so without risking further injury, move your dog carefully away from the road. If there is someone nearby to help you, carefully load your dog into the car and transport him to the nearest emergency vet, wrapping him in a towel or blanket to keep him warm in the meantime. There is nothing more terrifying than watching your dog get hit by a car and not being able to do anything to stop it. If you value your dog’s health and safety, you’ll do your part as a responsible dog owner to protect him. In the event that the worst should happen, however, you should be prepared to take the necessary actions to get your dog the care he needs.

Stress-Free Tips for Keeping Your Christmas Tree Safe From Your Dog

You’ve decorated the Christmas Tree and it looks fabulous… that is, until your dog spots it! Make sure your tree survives the holidays with these stress-free tips. There is just something about decorating the tree that makes it feel like Christmas. If you’re going to spend the better part of a day decorating your tree, you want to make sure your efforts aren’t wasted. Unfortunately, many dog owners deal with the struggle of keeping their dog away from the tree. Keeping your dog away from the Christmas tree is only half the battle – you also need to make sure the tree is pet-safe. Keep reading to learn more about creating a pet-safe Christmas tree and for keeping it safe from your dog. Related: 7 Sparkling Safety Tips For A Dog-Proof Christmas Tree Simple Tips for Dog-Proofing the Tree If you’re worried about your dog knocking over the Christmas tree, one solution is to simply not have one. But what is Christmas without a Christmas tree? If you simply can’t bear the thought of skipping out on this holiday tradition, here are some tips for dog-proofing your tree: Choose an artificial tree rather than a real one. Artificial trees usually come with sturdy stands for greater stability and, if it does fall over, it won’t be as heavy as a real one.Make sure your tree is anchored to prevent it from tipping over. If you really want to do it right, screw a bolt into the wall behind it, wrap a loop of twine around the tree, and tie it to the bolt.Set up your tree and leave it bare for a few days before decorating it. This will give your dog some time to get used to having the tree – he’ll be more likely to leave it alone later once it’s decorated.Bundle and tie up all of your electrical cords. Not only do you want to prevent your dog from chewing on them, but you’ll be reducing the risk that he’ll trip on them or get tangled in them.Be smart about where you place your ornaments, It might be a good idea to leave the lower branches bare and to place fragile ornaments closer to the top of the tree.Don’t put any edible ornaments on the tree that might tempt your dog. Candy canes, cookie ornaments, and even popcorn could cause problems for your pet.Wait until Christmas morning to place your presents under the tree so your dog doesn’t get into them – you don’t want to wake up to find your dog ate every last gift. Other Holiday Safety Tips for Pets In addition to making sure that your Christmas tree is dog-proof, there are some other simple things to keep in mind. Avoid purchasing any kind of holiday plant that might be harmful to your dog – this includes lilies, mistletoe, holly, and poinsettias. If you’re using real pine garlands, be careful where you place them so your dog doesn’t end up covered in sap. As always, you should be careful about keeping potentially toxic food and beverages out of your dog’s reach. You should also keep the phone number for the Pet Poison Helpline handy, just in case. The holidays are a joyous season, so make sure you do everything you can to keep it that way! Take the steps described above to keep your Christmas tree safe from your dog and vice versa. Happy holidays!

Save 40% On FRONTLINE® Flea and Tick Protection

While we love the warmer weather and more outside time with our pets that spring and summer bring, this is also the time when dogs and cats are most at risk of fleas and ticks.

Dog Cured of Cancer in Clinical Trial

In amazing news, a Golden Retriever named Lola was cured of cancer after receiving a new treatment as part of a clinical trial at UC Davis. Diagnosed in 2023, the 9-year-old dog was originally given less than six months to live, as her aggressive oral melanoma had spread to the lungs. But that prognosis changed after she was referred to the UC Davis William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital.  

Biotech Firms Might Make Ozempic Available for Pets

You’ve heard of Ozempic for weight loss in people, but did you ever think that it would be an option for overweight dogs and cats? Well, biotech firms are working on bringing to market an implant that will function in a similar way to GLP-1 receptor agonists in humans. If trials are successful, you might see veterinarians prescribing it in 2028 or 2029.

F1 Driver Lewis Hamilton Sits Vigil for His Best Buddy, Roscoe

12-year-old English Bulldog in coma after heart stops during treatment for pneumonia.

Stocky Swimming Bulldog Raises Questions on Social Media

Ideal solution for joint health or possible danger to flat-faced breed.

What Are the Best Beginner Birds for Pet Owners?

Birds can make wonderful companions, bringing color, intelligence, and lively energy into a home. But if you're considering your first feathered friend, choosing the right species is important. Some birds are naturally easier to care for, while others require more time, experience, and patience.For beginners, it's essential to consider a bird’s temperament, noise level, social needs, and care requirements. To help you get started, here are five bird species that make great pets for first-time owners. Budgerigar (Budgie)

2025 Pet Parasite Warning: Lyme & Heartworm Risk Up

As responsible pet parents, we need to stay informed about potential threats to the health and well-being of our best friends. One such threat is the ever-present threat of parasites like fleas and ticks, and the diseases they carry. The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC), a leading authority on these pests, has just released its 2025 Pet Parasite Forecast, and it’s not looking good. The report highlights a growing risk for Lyme disease and heartworm. Based on a staggering 10 million diagnostic tests conducted annually, the CAPC has an impressive 94% accuracy rate in predicting the prevalence of these diseases. Their latest forecast indicates that Lyme disease and heartworm continue to spread across the United States. This isn’t just a static problem in a single area of the country; it’s an evolving one, driven by the shifting populations of ticks and mosquitoes – the culprits behind these nasty diseases. Specifically, the forecast points to a continued southward and westward spread of Lyme disease, a tick-borne illness that can cause serious joint pain, lameness, and even kidney problems in our pets. The upper Midwest and Northeast remain high-risk zones. Another tick-borne disease, anaplasmosis, is following a similar pattern of expansion. Meanwhile, ehrlichiosis, another tick-transmitted disease, is holding strong in the Southeast and creeping further north into the upper Midwest and New England. Meanwhile, the CAPC warns of an increasing spread of heartworm in the southeastern United States, particularly along the Atlantic coast and up the Mississippi River. Much of the middle of the country, stretching from Kansas to Maryland, is facing a heightened risk this year. They also highlight areas of growing concern in New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, North Dakota, and Northern California. While this news likely feels a little unsettling, it does for me, we must remember that knowledge is power. Understanding these risks is the first step in keeping our pets safe. Step two is prevention. The CAPC emphasizes that the risk isn't zero even in areas with a “low risk” designation. That’s why year-round parasite preventative measures are so crucial. This is even more important for pets like dogs and adventure cats who enjoy spending time outdoors where they are more likely to be exposed. Consistent use of veterinarian-recommended preventives for both ticks and heartworm is the best way to shield your pet from these diseases. Beyond protecting your pet, it’s important to remember that we must also consider our own risk factors. Areas with high rates of heartworm and tick-borne diseases in dogs and cats often indicate a greater risk for us humans as well, as we share the same environments. So, what can you do? The first step is to talk with your vet about the specific risks in your area and your pet’s lifestyle. With that information, you can work together to develop a tailored prevention plan. This might include year-round medication, regular testing, and even vaccinations where available (like for Lyme disease). Ultimately, staying informed and taking proactive steps to lower the risk is key to ensuring our pets live long, healthy, and happy lives, free from the burden of these preventable diseases. Your best friend will thank you. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Neutering Kittens Early Doesn't Lead to Heavier Cats, Study Finds

Longer life expectancy, reduced aggressiveness, zero spaying at home, and prevention of diseases are just some of the benefits of spaying or neutering your cat. Nevertheless, many owners decide to postpone sterilizing their kittens because spayed/neutered cats tend to eat more and gain weight easily. Obesity is commonly listed as the main disadvantage of neutering or spaying cats. The good news is that a new study has found no greater risk of weight problems in adulthood in kittens neutered at four months old compared to kittens neutered at six months old. The study, published in Vet Records, analyzed over 2,000 clinical records relating to 584 pet cats. Data showed no difference in body condition score (BCS) and bodyweight of kittens neutered at four months old or under, and those neutered at five or six months old, as they reached adulthood and senior years. For this study, the researchers used data from the Bristol Cats study at the University of Bristol. This longitudinal study follows kittens registered at 16 weeks old throughout their lifespan. Researchers also discovered that male cats usually weigh more and have a higher body condition score than female cats at any given time. Female cats showed lower body weight and body condition scores in summer and autumn, while male cats maintained a more consistent body weight and body condition score throughout all seasons. This study aimed to investigate the health outcomes of cats neutered before reaching puberty. Since neutering is a known risk factor for obesity in adult cats, some veterinary professionals are concerned that neutering kittens at younger ages may increase their chance of becoming obese in adulthood. “This new study adds to a growing body of evidence that neutering cats at four months old does not compromise their welfare, while it also helps charities and vet practices alike to deal with the problem of feline over-population,” said Dr. Rae Foreman-Worsley, a feline welfare associate researcher for Cat Protection.“By neutering cats from four months old, the veterinary profession can help to significantly reduce the number of unplanned litters and potentially homeless cats. At a time when financial constraints and issues with capacity are facing both owners and vets, a move to neutering cats at four months old may be an effective way to manage cat populations.”Dr. Emily Blackwell, Senior Lecturer in Animal Behavior and Welfare, Director of Companion Animal Population Health, and Principal Investigator of the Bristol Cats study at Bristol Veterinary School, said, ”The Bristol Cat study collects information about the health, welfare, and behavior of cats across the UK. Data from Bristol Cats used in this research provides further evidence that neutering kittens at four months of age does not put them at greater risk of weight problems in adulthood than those neutered at six months.” “Neutering kittens at four months can be effective in preventing unwanted litters, and we are pleased to have helped to provide scientific evidence to inform neutering decisions,” Dr. Blackwell added. In light of these findings, researchers are now calling for more long-term studies to investigate the effects of pre-puberty neutering on adult cats’ weight. Neutering causes metabolic and hormonal changes in cats, leading to decreased energy expenditure and increased appetite. This can lead to weight gain and obesity if not properly managed. Veterinary professionals still consider neutering a risk factor for obesity in cats, but agree that more studies like this one are needed to better understand whether there is any link with neutering age. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

AI Is Helping to Find Lost Pets

AI has been making waves in the pet space for a while now, with veterinarians and pet parents gaining access to a variety of tools that can help them better assess a pet’s pain, track their daily habits, and more. And now there’s a new AI tool that can help reunite lost pets with their families.

Dog with Grapefruit-Sized Tumour Gets Help From UK Rescue

Charity urges other pet owners to seek out treatment and financial support rather than ignoring medical issues.

9 Signs Your Pet Is Trying to Tell You Something Important

Pets communicate with us all the time, it just doesn’t involve words. From changes in behavior to subtle body language, they have their own ways of letting us know when something’s wrong or when they need something.Being able to recognize those signs can help you catch health or emotional issues early on.Here are 9 signs your pet might be trying to tell you something important. 

Here’s Why Your Dog Loves to Say Hello to Strangers

If you’ve ever walked down the street with your dog and watched them enthusiastically greet every passerby, you’ve probably wondered why they do that. While it can be a little embarrassing at times, this behavior is rooted in some surprisingly interesting aspects of canine nature.

How to Safely Welcome a Skittish Rescue Cat into Your Home