How to Get Your Cat to the Vet Without Losing a Limb

Many cat owners agree: the hardest part of a cat wellness exam isn’t the bill, it’s getting your cat there in the first place. Some cats seem to know the moment you even think about pulling out the carrier. Suddenly, they vanish under the bed or turn into a writhing, hissing ball of claws.

But skipping the vet isn’t an option if you want your cat to live a long, healthy life. A routine cat wellness exam can catch hidden issues like kidney disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and even cancer, often before your cat shows any obvious symptoms. If you’ve ever wondered how to take a cat to the vet without all the stress, here’s how to make your next cat vet appointment calmer, safer, and easier for both of you.

Step 1: Choose the Right Cat Carrier

A sturdy, secure carrier is essential for a stress-free vet appointment. The right carrier doesn’t just keep your cat safe; it sets the tone for the entire trip. Think of it as your cat’s portable safe space.

Look for one that:

• Opens from both the front and the top (this gives you more options when placing your cat inside).

• Has enough space for your cat to turn around comfortably without feeling cramped.

• Is hard sided for extra durability and security (though soft carriers can work well for shorter trips).

• Has a removable top, which allows your veterinarian to examine your cat inside the carrier during a cat vet checkup, minimizing stressful handling.

Skip the makeshift options like cardboard boxes or totes. They’re often flimsy, can collapse under stress, and don’t provide the safety your cat needs during travel. Some cats even manage to claw their way out, which can be dangerous if you’re on the road.

Right now, Pieper Veterinary Hospitals is offering a free first wellness exam for indoor cats. Book by September 30 and enter to win a LitterBot.

Step 2: Make the Carrier a Familiar Place

If the carrier only appears right before a cat vet checkup, your cat will instantly associate it with something negative. Instead, integrate the carrier into your home so it becomes a regular part of their environment.

Place it in a quiet corner with the door open and make it cozy. Line it with a blanket that smells like your cat or add a favorite toy. Toss in a few treats or even feed your cat their meals inside occasionally. Over time, they’ll start to see the carrier as a safe den rather than a trap.

Cats that view their carrier positively are far easier to transport for their cat vet appointments. This simple step can make the biggest difference between a stressful battle and a smooth trip.

Pro Tip: If your cat loves cardboard boxes or sunbeams, put the carrier in one of those favorite spots. The goal is to associate the carrier with comfort, not conflict.

Step 3: Use the Power of Scent

Cats rely heavily on scent for security and familiarity, so tapping into that instinct is key before a cat wellness exam.

Here’s how you can make scent work for you:

• Place bedding or a towel from your cat’s favorite sleeping spot inside the carrier. Familiar smells help lower anxiety.

• Spray the inside of the carrier with a feline pheromone spray like Feliway 10–15 minutes before loading your cat. These synthetic pheromones mimic the “happy” scents cats naturally release, signaling safety.

• Avoid cleaning the carrier right before your cat vet appointment. Harsh chemical smells or “new” smells can unsettle your cat.

Step 4: Stay Calm Yourself

Your cat is incredibly in tune with your emotions, if you’re anxious about how to take a cat to the vet, your cat will pick up on it. Calm energy is contagious.

On the day of your cat vet appointment:

• Move slowly and speak softly. Quick, jerky movements can make your cat think something is wrong.

• Avoid chasing your cat if they resist. Instead, try gently coaxing them with treats, toys, or even a small meal placed inside the carrier.

• Keep your voice calm and steady. Even cats who don’t understand words respond to tone.

If your cat senses you’re calm, they’re more likely to cooperate. Remember, the goal isn’t to force your cat into compliance but to make the process feel safe and predictable.

Step 5: Make the Car Ride Comfortable

For many cats, the ride itself is the most stressful part of a cat vet checkup. The carrier is moving, there are strange smells, and the environment is unfamiliar. But you can take steps to make it less scary.

• Cover the carrier with a light blanket or towel to block outside sights. This creates a “cave-like” effect that feels safe.

• Keep the car temperature moderate — not too hot or too cold.

• Drive smoothly and avoid sudden stops or loud music.

• Place the carrier on the floor behind the passenger seat or secure it with a seatbelt for stability. Cats feel calmer when the carrier doesn’t shift around.

Resist the urge to open the carrier mid-trip. Even a calm cat can panic and escape, which is extremely dangerous in a car.

Pro Tip: If your cat is especially anxious, talk to your vet before the visit. They may recommend mild anti-anxiety medication to make travel easier.

Step 6: Practice Short Trips

Practice makes perfect, and that applies to vet trips too. If your cat only ever gets in the carrier to go to the vet, the negative association is hard to break.

Take your cat on short rides around the block without a destination. End these practice trips with rewards like treats, playtime, or even dinner. This helps your cat learn that the carrier and car don’t always mean needles or thermometers.

Over time, these “fun rides” make actual cat vet appointments much easier. The more your cat views travel as routine, the less likely they are to resist.

Why Stress-Free Vet Visits Matter

Getting your cat to the vet is worth the effort. Routine cat wellness exams help your veterinarian catch problems like kidney disease, dental disease, diabetes, or cancer early — when they’re easier (and less expensive) to treat.

The less stressful the trip, the more likely you are to stick with those regular checkups that can add years to your cat’s life.

Special Offer: Free First Cat Wellness Exam

Right now, Pieper Veterinary Hospitals is offering a free first wellness exam for cats who haven’t been in for a while. Schedule your cat’s vet checkup before September 30 and you’ll also be entered to win a LitterBot automatic litter box.

Don’t wait until your cat is showing symptoms — by then, many illnesses may already be advanced. Book your appointment today and make your next cat vet visit a calmer, healthier experience.

Book Your Free Exam Now

When a dog starts acting “off,” it can be easy to chalk it up to age, injury, or even personality. But some subtle changes in behavior or movement could actually point to an issue with the nervous system. Neurological signs in dogs can range from mild to severe – and early diagnosis is critical for the best outcome.

At Pieper Veterinary, our Neurology & Neurosurgery team uses advanced diagnostics like MRI to get to the root of these complex issues. If you’ve noticed something unusual in your dog, here’s what you need to know.

Common Neurological Signs in Dogs

Dogs can’t tell us when something feels wrong—but they often show us. Neurological problems may affect the brain, spinal cord, or nerves, leading to a wide variety of signs, including:

• Wobbliness or unsteady walking (Ataxia)

Your dog may look drunk, sway side to side, or have difficulty maintaining balance—especially on slippery surfaces or stairs.

• Sudden weakness or collapse

If your dog suddenly can’t stand, seems weak in the limbs, or collapses without warning, it could be a spinal or neuromuscular issue.

• Seizures or twitching

Any abnormal shaking, muscle tremors, or full-body seizures should be evaluated by a vet immediately. Do your best to get a video of your dog’s behavior at home – its very unlikely they’ll repeat it in front of the doctor.

•  Head tilt or circling

These signs may point to vestibular(balance) dysfunction or a brain lesion and often worsen without treatment.

• Neck or back pain

Dogs with spinal problems may cry out when touched, resist movement, or walk with a hunched back.

• Paralysis or dragging limbs

Partial or full paralysis (especially in the back legs) can be caused by intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), spinal cord injury, or infections.

• Changes in behavior or awareness

Confusion, aggression, staring off into space, or not recognizing family members may indicate a neurological event.

• Loss of bladder or bowel control

Incontinence, especially when paired with mobility changes, may signal spinal compression or nerve dysfunction.

Call us at (860) 431-3025 to Schedule an Appointment.

When to See a Veterinary Neurologist

Your primary veterinarian is the best place to start – but for more advanced signs or unclear diagnoses, a referral to a veterinary neurologist can be life-changing.
At Pieper Memorial, our Neurology & Neurosurgery team offers:

• Expert neurological exams

Our specialists perform comprehensive neuro exams to pinpoint where the problem lies within the nervous system.

• MRI imaging for advanced diagnosis

MRI is the gold standard for evaluating brain and spinal conditions in dogs. It’s safe, non-invasive, and incredibly detailed.

• Treatment for complex conditions

From seizures and brain tumors to disc herniations, vertebral fractures and meningitis, our team has experience with the most challenging cases.

• Surgical and non-surgical care

Whether your pet needs surgery or long-term medication management, we work with you to find the best solution.

Want to take the next step? Learn more about our neurology services.

Don’t Wait—Early Action Matters

Neurological issues can progress quickly. The sooner you seek care, the better the chances of recovery. If your dog is showing any of the signs listed above, talk to your vet or ask about a referral to our Neurology & Neurosurgery department.
At Pieper Veterinary, we’re proud to offer compassionate, expert care when it matters most. If your dog needs advanced diagnostics or neurological support, our team is here to help.

Seeing your dog retching or throwing up white foam can be alarming. While it’s sometimes harmless, in other cases, it may point to a more serious issue requiring urgent care. Understanding what causes this type of vomiting—and when to take action—can help protect your dog’s health and well-being.

At Pieper Veterinary, our emergency and specialty teams routinely treat dogs for vomiting, nausea, and gastrointestinal distress. This guide explains the top reasons for dogs throwing up white foam, signs to watch for, and when to contact your veterinarian.

What it Means When Your Dog Throws Up White Foam

When a dog throws up white foam, it usually consists of saliva and gastric juices from the upper digestive tract. This foamy or bubbly vomit typically appears when a dog has an empty stomach. Another possible situation may be your dog is coughing up respiratory secretions that appear as white foam. It may happen just once or be an early sign of something more serious.

If vomiting occurs repeatedly or is accompanied by other symptoms, prompt veterinary attention is recommended.

Common Causes of Dogs Throwing Up White Foam

There are many possible causes for this symptom—some mild and others more serious. Below are the most frequent reasons:
1. Empty Stomach or Bile Irritation
When a dog hasn’t eaten for several hours, stomach acid and bile can accumulate , irritating the lining and leading to vomiting, this is called bilious vomiting syndrome. This often occurs in the early morning or late at night.

2. Indigestion or Dietary Upset
Eating fatty foods, spoiled leftovers, or foreign items can cause vomiting. If the stomach is empty, the vomit may appear as bile that is foamy or white.

3. Gastrointestinal Inflammation
Conditions like gastritis or gastroenteritis—often due to infections, parasites, dietary indescretion,chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, toxicities, or adverse drug events—can trigger repeated vomiting, sometimes with mucus or foam.

4. Respiratory Irritation or Kennel Cough
Certain respiratory illnesses may lead to coughing and frothy secretions that resemble vomit. Look for nasal discharge, lethargy, or increased respiratory effort like coughing.

5. Pancreatitis
Triggered by rich or fatty foods, pancreatitis causes inflammation and vomiting. White foam can appear alongside signs like abdominal pain or weakness.

6. Toxin Exposure
Ingesting medications, chemicals, or toxic plants can cause vomiting—often with white foam—and may require emergency care. Call your vet immediately if poisoning is suspected.

7. Bloat
This life-threatening emergency occurs when the stomach twists and fills with gas. Signs include unproductive retching, excessive drooling, and abdominal swelling. Dogs may vomit only foam. Seek emergency care without delay.

When to Call the Vet

Not every case of white foam vomiting requires emergency attention, but contact your vet if your dog shows any of the following signs:

• Vomiting more than once in 24 hours
• Lethargy or unresponsiveness
• Refusal to eat or drink
• Distended or painful abdomen
• Unproductive retching more than once
• Vomiting blood
• Possible ingestion of toxins or objects

At-Home Care for Mild Cases

If your dog is otherwise healthy and has vomited white foam only once, you can try these at-home care steps:

• Withhold food for 6 to 12 hours, but provide fresh water
• Reintroduce a bland diet (boiled chicken and plain rice)
• Watch for repeat vomiting or behavior changes
• Avoid fatty treats or table scraps
• Don’t give medications unless prescribed by your vet

If symptoms return or worsen, call your veterinarian immediately.

Emergency Veterinary Care When Needed

Sometimes, vomiting is just a temporary upset. Other times, it’s a sign of something serious. If your dog keeps throwing up white foam, seems distressed, or won’t eat or drink, don’t delay.
The emergency team at Pieper Veterinary is available 24/7 to provide diagnostics, stabilization, and advanced treatment for urgent conditions. We’re here to help when your dog needs it most.

Fireworks may be a highlight of summer holidays in Connecticut, but they often trigger intense pet anxiety. Dogs and cats can become overwhelmed by the loud booms, flashing lights, and unfamiliar vibrations, leading to behaviors like hiding or escape attempts.

At Pieper Veterinary, we see an increase in anxiety-related emergencies during holidays like the 4th of July. With thoughtful preparation, you can help your pet feel safe and supported even during noisy celebrations.

Why Fireworks Trigger Pet Anxiety

Pets experience the world through more sensitive hearing and acute sensory awareness. Fireworks are irregular, loud, and disorienting. Unlike thunder, which has a pattern, fireworks are unpredictable and often more frightening—especially for pets with prior trauma or sound sensitivity.

Signs of Pet Anxiety During Fireworks

• Hiding in closets, under beds, or in bathrooms
• Trembling or pacing
• Barking, whining, or excessive vocalizing
• Drooling or panting
• Trying to escape or flee
• Scratching at doors or windows
• Loss of appetite
• Accidents in the house
• Cats may flatten ears, widen pupils, or lash out

Ways to Help Your Pet Cope with Fireworks

1. Set Up a Quiet Retreat: Choose a familiar, calm room. Close windows, dim the lights, and use white noise, fans, or blackout curtains to help muffle external sounds.
2. Offer Gentle Presence: Be close, but let your pet choose how much interaction they want. Speak softly and avoid overwhelming them.
3. Use Soothing Sounds: Play calm music or soft background TV to help distract from sudden bursts of noise outside.
4. Keep Routine Consistent: Sticking to your pet’s regular schedule for meals and walks provides structure and comfort.
5. Don’t Punish Fear-Based Behavior: Scolding only increases fear. Instead, provide reassurance and space for your pet to settle.
6. Try Calming Aids: Ask your veterinarian about safe options like pheromone diffusers, calming treats, or anxiety wraps.
7. Check Your Home’s Security: Make sure windows are locked, screens are secure, and fences are closed—startled pets may flee unexpectedly.

When Veterinary Help is Needed

If your pet has severe reactions, doesn’t calm down, or has a history of injury during loud events, talk to your veterinarian in advance. Medication or behavior support may be necessary.

Pieper Veterinary’s Emergency & Critical Care team is available 24/7 to treat stress-related emergencies, injury, and other complications caused by fireworks anxiety.

Make Firework Nights Safer for Pets

Holidays should be joyful—not distressing. With awareness, preparation, and the right support, you can minimize pet anxiety during fireworks and keep your companion calm and safe.

If your pet is already showing signs of stress or you want guidance on managing their anxiety, contact Pieper Veterinary. We’re here to support families across Connecticut with care every day of the year.

It’s normal to wonder what’s wrong if your dog limps, moves more slowly, or just doesn’t move like they used to. Sometimes, a sore muscle or a short-term strain is all it is. But if the symptoms don’t go away, there may be something else going on. In those cases, it might be time to seek the expertise of a veterinarian orthopedic specialist.

Many pet owners in Stratford, CT, aren’t quite sure when it’s appropriate to see a specialist rather than rely on their regular vet. This article will walk you through signs to watch for, what conditions may require orthopedic care, and how a specialist can help your dog feel better and regain stable mobility.

When Limping is More Than Just a Strain

Dogs are tough and can often hide pain well. When you get home from a day at the park, a little limp might not seem like a big deal at first. But if your dog is still limping after two or three days, or if they have trouble getting up or going up or down stairs, or if they seem very stiff, there may be a bigger problem.

Pay attention to signs like:

• Visible swelling near a joint

• Clicking or popping sounds when they walk

• Avoiding regular activities like walks or playtime

• Personality changes, like irritability or restlessness

These signs could mean that your joints aren’t stable, that you tore a ligament, or that you’re starting to get arthritis. A primary vet can tell you a lot about simple illnesses, but a veterinarian orthopedic specialist for animals has access to more advanced diagnostic tools and can offer more targeted solutions for tough or long-lasting issues.

Injuries That May Require Surgical Treatment

Not all injuries lead to surgery—but when bones, joints, or ligaments are involved, more in-depth care is often needed. If your dog had a fall, was involved in an accident, or suddenly refuses to put weight on one of their legs, you should consider whether dog orthopedic surgery may be necessary.

Here are several orthopedic conditions that commonly require a surgical approach:

• Fractures: Some broken bones heal with splints or casts, but others—especially those with multiple breaks or displacements—require pet bone surgery to properly realign and stabilize them using screws, plates, or pins.

• Cruciate ligament tears: Much like an ACL tear in people, this knee injury is common in large or active dogs. Surgery is typically the best way to restore joint function and reduce pain.

• Joint luxations: A joint that becomes dislocated—such as a hip or elbow—may need surgical correction to prevent further damage and restore mobility.

• Hip or elbow dysplasia: These inherited conditions often start in younger dogs and worsen with age. When joint malformation causes pain or movement issues, a specialist may recommend corrective surgery.

In any of these cases, a general practice veterinarian might recognize the issue but refer you to an orthopedic surgeon in Stratford, CT, who can assess the injury with precision and recommend a treatment plan tailored specifically to your dog’s needs.

Aging and Joint Health in Senior Dogs

Orthopedic problems aren’t just linked to trauma. Aging is another major factor. As dogs get older, joint cartilage wears down, muscles weaken, and arthritis often sets in. While many older dogs manage well on medications and supplements, some require more than just conservative care.

Signs your senior dog may need a specialist include:

• Difficulty standing up or lying down

• Hesitation on smooth surfaces

• Licking or chewing at painful joints

• Muscle loss, especially in the hind legs

• Limping that comes and goes throughout the day

If medications aren’t helping, a veterinarian orthopedic specialist can evaluate whether orthopedic surgery for pets could provide relief—such as removing bone fragments, stabilizing loose joints, or even replacing a severely arthritic joint. These decisions are always made carefully, considering the dog’s age, health status, and expected quality of life after surgery.

What Sets a Veterinary Orthopedic Specialist Apart?

While general veterinarians are trained to diagnose and treat many conditions, a veterinarian orthopedic specialist focuses entirely on musculoskeletal issues. These specialists undergo extensive post-doctoral training and are often board-certified in surgery.

They bring a more advanced level of care by offering:

• Digital X-rays and advanced imaging (CT scans, MRI)

• Minimally invasive procedures where appropriate

• Surgical techniques tailored to a pet’s anatomy

• Recovery plans that include physical therapy or rehab

Practices offering orthopedic surgery for pets in Stratford, CT, often have fully equipped surgical suites and support staff who specialize in post-operative care and rehabilitation.

Choosing a specialist doesn’t mean bypassing your general vet—it means building on their diagnosis to provide the highest level of care when an orthopedic issue is affecting your dog’s daily comfort and movement.

What to Do If You Think Your Dog Needs Help

If your dog is showing signs of an orthopedic issue, your first step should always be your primary veterinarian. They can perform an exam and determine whether a referral is necessary. In most cases, they’ll recommend seeing a veterinarian orthopedic specialist if the condition is complex or surgical care may be needed.

Acting sooner rather than later is important. Waiting too long can limit your dog’s treatment options or lead to more serious complications down the road. Whether it’s an injury, a suspected ligament tear, or joint pain that keeps coming back, specialists in Stratford, CT, are ready to help you make the best decision for your pet’s comfort and mobility.

The Oregon Department of Health has confirmed a fatal case of H5N1 avian influenza in an indoor cat from Washington County, linked to Morasch Meat’s “Northwest Naturals” brand turkey raw & frozen pet food. Additional cases tied to raw diets have surfaced in other states, including the deaths of 20 big cats at a sanctuary in Washington. Due to the risk to both pets and humans, please be aware of this disease and take steps to prevent exposure.

What You Need to Know:

H5N1 is a strain of “bird flu” (also known as highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI) currently circulating in the United States. While it mainly affects both domestic and wild birds, it has also been found in mammals including humans and cats.

What to Look For:

Cats: Cats are particularly vulnerable to H5N1 and can develop severe illness including fever, lethargy, trouble breathing, and neurological signs (e.g., seizures). Twenty big cats at a sanctuary in Washington have died from the virus. Most recently, an indoor-only domestic cat in Oregon who was fed a contaminated raw-meat diet died, which highlights the serious risk that raw food can present to our pets.

Dogs: Dogs have a lower, but still possible, risk of H5N1 infection. Most cases in dogs have been linked to direct exposure to infected birds or raw food diets. Symptoms can include respiratory signs, lethargy, and fever.

Birds: Birds that are housed outdoors have a higher risk of developing H5N1 due to the increased chance of exposure from wild birds. Visit the USDA Defend the Flock page for recommendations on how to keep your birds healthy.

Ferrets: Ferrets are highly susceptible to influenza infection, and can contract infection from contact with humans. Raw food diets pose a serious health risk to ferrets due to the potential for contamination.

Humans: H5N1 is zoonotic, which means that it can also infect humans as well as animals. There have been over 60 cases of H5N1 in humans since April 2024. Handling contaminated raw pet food can pose risks to humans, as can contact with infected pets or wildlife.

Is H5N1 in Connecticut?

There have been no confirmed cases of H5N1 in any mammals in Connecticut at this time (12/31/2024). However, rare cases have been confirmed in both wild and domestic birds over the past two years, so the virus is likely present in the state.

How to Stay Safe:

•        Avoid Raw Food: Feed only cooked or commercially processed pet foods. Avoid feeding raw diets and raw (unpasteurized) milk.
•        Monitor Pets: Watch for signs of illness (fever, lethargy, respiratory issues, neurological symptoms) and contact your veterinarian immediately if these occur.
•        Practice Safe Handling: Use gloves when handling raw diets and wash hands thoroughly when handling pet food.
•        Stay Informed: Follow recall alerts and dispose of recalled products properly. Discuss diet and disease prevention with your veterinarian.

For more information, consult your veterinarian or visit a trusted health resources like the USDA’s website below. Let’s keep our pets safe and healthy!

• Map of H5N1 Mammal Cases in the United States – USDA Dept. of Agriculture
• Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza – USDA Dept. of Agriculture
• Preventing Bird Flu in Cats – American Veterinary Medical Association

As anyone with a pet can tell you, when the COVID-19 pandemic first surged onto the scene in early 2020 suddenly the simple task of booking a veterinary appointment became an incredible challenge. As hospitals nation-wide closed their doors to all but the most critical emergencies, routine care such as vaccinations and spay and neuter surgeries came to a standstill. When a well-intentioned woman rescued four pregnant cats off the street at the beginning of 2020, she had no idea that three years later she would find herself with well over 60 cats.

Cats can breed as early as four months old, and give birth to an average of two to six kittens per litter. With four litters of kittens and no way to get any of them spayed or neutered for months, the population in the house skyrocketed. Despite the overwhelming situation the rescuer tried her best to keep all the animals healthy. Animal Control noted that the cats are overall in good condition and well-fed, with mostly minor medical problems such as fleas and upper respiratory infections.

“This is not a traditional hoarding case,” says Gail Petras, Senior Animal Control Officer of Middletown, noting that this wasn’t a situation where someone was purposefully trying to keep as many animals as possible. “This is a rescue that went bad and became overwhelming due the difficulties everyone was dealing with at the start of COVID. The owner had nowhere to go, and everything snowballed.”

Middletown Animal Control became aware of the case due to an anonymous tip and a cat bite incident. When they went to check on the vaccination status of the cats, they quickly realized that this situation was far more complex than they could have imagined.

Working together with the doctors and staff at Pieper’s Berlin Street hospital, on January 24th 18 of the cats were spayed and neutered, in addition to starting medication to clear them of fleas and infections. The Connecticut Humane Society has assisted Middletown Animal Control with covering the remaining costs of the veterinary care and helping to coordinate rescue organizations to take in the cats. Pieper often works closely with Middletown Animal Control to assist with the important work that they do keeping pets and their families safe, and a case like this is no exception.

Due to the sheer volume of animals the cats are being spread out among rescues, and it’s hopeful that thanks to everyone’s collaborative efforts the situation is now, finally, under control.​

According to Animal Control, the owner of the cats has been fully cooperative, and is very grateful for the help that’s been provided so far. As Officer Petras states, “We do this job for the animals, but obviously you have to help the people too. Our goal is not to get people in trouble, our goal is to try to help. You never know what’s going on behind the scenes, and what challenges people are facing.”

As the weather forecast soars well into the 90s, veterinary hospitals brace for patients suffering from heatstroke. This potentially deadly condition can set in rapidly, especially for certain dogs – knowing the risk factors, warning signs, and how to keep your pup cool are essential for making sure that both you and your pets can safely enjoy the summer.

Is My Dog at Risk?

All dogs can suffer from heatstroke, but there are some individuals for whom hot weather may be even more dangerous. Check the list below – do any of these descriptions apply to your dog?

• Obesity
• Brachycephaly (short-nosed breeds, including pugs, bulldogs, and more)
• Long or thick coat
• Darkly-colored coat
• Seniors and young puppies
• Pre-existing health conditions (such as heart disease, or airway disease)
• Large or giant breed

If any (or multiple) of the above factors apply to your dog, they’re at an increased risk for heatstroke and require extra caution to keep them safe.

While we as people can choose to go inside and get a drink if we feel overheated, many dogs are unable to self-regulate in high heat. If they’re “high drive” and the type to run or play endlessly, they can ignore their body’s warning signs and end up putting themselves in danger – on hot days, it’s up to us as the owners to monitor the situation and make a judgement call as to when they’ve had enough.

Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke can come on rapidly in hot weather, so it’s important to be aware of the signs. If your pet is experiencing any of the following, please call your closest veterinary ER immediately:

• Hypersalivation (excessive and/or frothy drooling)
• Prolonged hyperventilation (rapid, shallow panting)
• Red or dark gums, tongue, or skin
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Mental dullness, lethargy, stumbling
• Collapse
• Fever of 105f or greater

If caught early, heatstroke can be treated at an ER with critical fluid, oxygen, and medication support. But if untreated or advanced, heatstroke can result in severe organ damage and even death.

How to Beat the Heat

Fortunately, there’s many ways to help keep our dogs cool. Shade should always be available to avoid any direct sunlight, and turning on some fans to keep air moving can help a lot. Always make sure your pet has access to cool, clean water to drink. Many dogs also enjoy playing in water, including swimming or playing with a hose or sprinkler. However, also don’t let your dog chug water endlessly – this can lead to stomach upset or, in extreme cases, water poisoning. 

Avoid the hottest parts of the day – exercise your dogs in the early morning or after the sun has set, when temperatures are cooler and there’s no direct sunlight. Asphalt can become searing hot in the sun, so test it with the back of your hand – if it’s too hot for your skin, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws!

You can also prepare a frozen treat for hot days – while some dogs are happy to munch on plain ice, you can also freeze low-sodium chicken broth, wet dog food, or plain greek yogurt in an ice cube tray or inside of a rubber Kong toy for a refreshing snack. A frozen wet bandana placed on your dogs collar can also help provide some extra relief.

Most importantly – never leave your dog in your car! At even mildly warm temperatures, a few minutes in a car can turn deadly, even with the windows cracked. Hot car confinement is a major and deadly problem – keep your dogs safe, and leave them home!

As the warm season is just starting, we’ll no doubt be facing many more days of hot temperatures – but by staying informed and aware, we can give our beloved pets the best chance to safely enjoy the summer with us.

It’s the season to start gardening – but for those of us with cats and dogs, sometimes beautiful flowers can hide a deadly danger. Whether you’re looking to exclusively grow a pet-safe garden or want to ensure any toxic plants are kept out of reach, researching your flower choices is the easiest way to ensure you can cultivate a garden that’s both beautiful and safe.

If you suspect your pet has consumed a toxic plant, contact ASPCA poison control immediately at (888) 426-4435.

Non-Toxic Plants:

• Alyssum
• Aster
• Gerber Daisy
• Hibiscus
• Orchid
• Pansy
• Petunia
• Rose
• Snapdragon
• Sunflower
• Zinnia

Toxic Plants:

• Azalea
• Begonia
• Carnation
• Chrysanthemum
• Daffodils
• Foxglove
• Hyacinth
• Lilies (including daylilies and lilies of the valley, highly toxic to cats)
• Rhododendron
• Sago Palm (highly toxic to dogs)
• Tulip
• Wisteria

Because there are many species of plant that are toxic to cats and dogs, symptoms are also wide-ranging and can vary from minor nausea to acute liver and kidney failure. Keeping yourself informed of what plants your pet has access to – and the warning signs to look out for – can help ensure that in the event your pet does consume something toxic, they can receive quick and effective treatment.

For a larger list of safe and toxic plants, or to look up a specific type of plant, please visit the ASPCA Poisonous Plant Directory.