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safety

Get tips on pet-proofing your digs, keeping them warm (or cool) through the seasons, and avoiding all the toxic stuff…like toys, plants, and everything else they try to eat.

Dog sleeping on woman's lap at home.

Learn what’s best for your pup.

Dog laying on woman's lap at home.

Why you need to keep your weed far away from your pup.

Forrest fire.

What you need to know if wildfires affect your community.

Ask a Vet

Pet health question that’s not an emergency? Our vet team will answer over email within 48 hours. So, go ahead, ask us about weird poop, bad breath, and everything in between.

Portrait of fluffy red leashed dog outdoors in winter on snow.

It’s super dangerous—and very illegal.

a puppy chewing a chew-safe bone

Give them an alternative to your shoes.

Dog hiding under the sofa and afraid to go out because he heard fireworks.

How to keep your dog mentally and physically safe this New Year.

Two men carrying their puppies outside in the park.

Balancing puppy socialization and safety is tricky.

A dog taking a bite of a treat next to a decorated Christmas tree.

Some plants are not so merry.

Dog drinking out of a container held by someone.

Spoiler alert: It’s not necessarily good for your dehydrated dog.

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A white and tan dog looking through the windshield of a car while standing in the lap of someone driving the car

Car travel with an unrestrained dog just isn’t safe. For anyone.

A happy looking man and woman walking their dog outside in a large snowy field.

How to make the snowy season your dog's favorite time of year.

 Xoloitzcuintli dog wearing coat in the snow.

Here’s why you might want to protect those toe beans.

a dog being fed a carrot

Do not feed your dog this popular snack.

woman snuggling puppy while holding them

And how to keep them safe while they chew.

Puppy outside smelling a bouquet of flowers.

Learn how to keep your pup safe in your garden.

Small puppy waiting for his owners to come home.

Because you have to go places sometimes.

Woman playing with her dogs outside in the grass.

Why they shouldn’t make a DIY chew toy out of the stuff in your yard.

White dog sits on a pile of leaves in front of a pumpkin

AKA a night that won’t turn into a scary time at the emergency vet.

Cute doodle dog outside with Petunias.

This is a go-to flower for many gardeners—but what about their dogs?

Woman giving her dog some medicine.

And what else you can give your dog for diarrhea.

Woman playing with a puppy at home.

They do like to use those chompers, but is this a safe alternative to your fingers?

Officials this week warned dog owners about recent changes in coyote activity in the Crissy Field area of San Francisco following multiple reported attacks.

Everything you need to know to protect your dog.

Walking dog on a leash in the road.

The PAWS Act aims to take pet injuries and deaths more seriously under the law.

Tommy Lee’s wife, comedian Brittany Furlan, bravely rescues dog from coyote attack.

The comedian and her dog are now safe and sound.

Woman putting coconut oil on her dog at home.

Plus, other alternatives that might be better.

Side view portrait of big white dog laying on floor in office with bowl, pet friendly workspace.

Pet parents should dispose of these products ASAP.

Woman holding Dahlia flowers while petting her dog.

They’re pretty additions to any garden, but they’re not pup-friendly.

Australian shepherd panting with tongue out, walking ahead of owners.

As scorching, long-lasting temperatures become the new normal, here’s how to help keep your pets cool and healthy.

Man holding puppy outside in grass.

And how to keep them safe when they do.

A woman in her twenties walking her puppy down the street in the summer time.

By any other name, it would smell as sweet. But what if your dog nibbles some?

woman holding dog among sunflowers

They are the best part of late summer. Can your pup take a sniff?

Dog sitting at home waiting for it's owner to come back.

Not that you want to be away from them anyway.

Woman walking her dog in the woods.

And if the worst happens, never try to suck out the venom yourself.

Portrait of a coyote standing on a red gravel path next to the street staring at the camera

Social media influencer Ashley Yi’s dog was killed by a coyote. Here are some tips for keeping your pup safe.

A woman checking her dog for ticks outside in a grassy field.

It is peak tick season, so we asked a veterinarian for tips on how to prevent this dreaded disease.

Woman squishing her dog's face outside.

They’re bright and pretty—just like your pup. But are they safe?

Woman and dog sitting outside.

August and September are the most active months for rabid bats. Here’s how to keep your pet safe.

Woman holds her small black dog on the airplane.

Pre-flight cuddles are OK, but the carrier is safest for your pal the rest of the trip. Here’s why.

Pretty young woman is sitting on window sill and using smartphone while her cute calm shiba inu dog is sitting near her enjoying view.

If you wouldn’t exercise outside with all that smoke, then your dog shouldn’t, either.

A woman tries to snuggle a reluctant cat

If your mental health is causing you to neglect your pet, find them immediate care while you get help.

Woman feeding her two dogs outside.

And other incredibly valid bowl-safety questions you’re probably asking.

Golden Doodle dog with Airtag collar.

The real question is: Should you?

Woman giving her dog some water from a bowl outdoors.

Unpacking the research on whether PFAs pose a health risk to our besties.

a woman feeding her dog food in a bowl

And the signs to look out for if you’re concerned.

Couple shopping with their dog in a store.

Find out how to buy truly cruelty-free products.

Gray cat in a yellow pet carrier

The East Coast just had a rare earthquake. A vet breaks down what to include in an emergency go-bag for your pet in times like this.

Golden Reteiver enjoying a fruit-ice bowl

From DIY ice-fruit bowls to dog-friendly ice cream, they will be chillin’.

Svalinn's canine companions transcend the realm of pets; they seamlessly integrate into the very essence of your daily life.

There are plenty of trainable dogs at shelters.

Black Lab playing in creek

Consider getting a water-testing kit to keep your pup safe.

Woman hugging her Labrador dog at home.

This just in: second-hand smoke, still bad.

Man playing with his large white and black dog outside, at the lake.

Everything you need to know to keep your pup safe.

Woman drinking orange juice with her dog nearby.

Good ol’ H2O should still be their top choice, but find out which alternatives are safe.

Girl playing with small poodle in the grass outside.

It keeps your grass lush and green, but your pup shouldn’t ingest it. Here’s why.

Avoid heat stroke in dogs by sprinkling in the backyard with your dog

Temperatures are rising dangerously. Keep your pet safe with these tips.

Dog with a food bowl

Five different pet foods have been contaminated.

Golden retriever running around a local park during sunset

Sure, microchips can feel a little 1984. But if your pup has a chip, they’re four times more likely to make it home if they get lost.

woman hugging dog in field of daisies
people celebrating fourth of july with dog safely, fourth of july safety tips for pets

This holiday should be for fireworks and grill-outs—not trips to the ER.

Labrador Retriever and Dachsund playing with a stick at the beach shoreline

Pro tips to keep your pup safe, happy, and exercised during the warmer months.

Woman sitting on couch with a scared, white dog.

A VCA Animal Hospital expert explains everything you need to know about preparing for a natural disaster.

Black lab swimming in pool

Keep your pup safe in the pool, a pond, or the ocean.

Nicola Peltz Beckham and her chihuahua dog, Nana, who passed away.

Celebrity dog groomer Jess Rona shares some tips all pet parents should know.

Small brown puppy chewing on plastic donut toy.

The chemical has been linked to a variety of health problems in animals.

Man holds his dog in his hands.

These little guys actually serve a huge role on your dog’s body.

Owner and their dog outside in the summer.

Those perfect little toe beans need all the help they can get.

A dog laying under a table outside while a woman cares for her plants.

You need to be extra careful if your dog or cat is your gardening assistant.

Pitbull sitting in a car alone on a hot, summer day.

As the temps rise, it becomes extremely risky for your pet’s health.

A dog with its head sticking out the window of a moving car.

They are your favorite person anyway—why not plan the perfect vacation with them?

Shepherd dog playing with yellow ball at the beach

5 tips to help your pup have fun in the sun — safely.

Kurzhaar's dog eats grass, oats, happy puppy playing in the meadow

Your pup is literally vegging out—when it’s no big deal and when to worry.

Puppy looking up at owner, wanting to go outside.

You shouldn’t make them cross their legs for long!

Man with his dog on alert outside in the grass.

Holy Stranger Things! (But calm down; it’s not nearly that bad.)

Woman plays with her dog on the beach in the summer.

So you both can have the best time ever.

A woman and a man grilling outside with a dog.

It’s the unofficial start of summer, and you don’t want to spend it at the emergency vet.

Friends play with dog in the park.

From ticks-borne disease to nasty parasites, these areas have seen the most dog and cat illnesses. 

A woman checking out her dogs paw.

Simple preventive steps can go a long way toward offsetting their threats.

Woman and her brown dog on a boat in the sun.

It’s good to know ahead of all the summer fun you’re gonna have together.

Woman looking at her dog's eyes.

Anyone who has purchased the product should discontinue use and can request a full refund.

A pampered dog sitting beside its owner in the city park.

Everything pet parents should know about keeping their pups safe and stress-free during this rare event. 

Calf looking up at a cat on a farm.

Unpasteurized milk can transmit avian influenza from cows to mammals.

A Sago Palm in a white pot against a grey brick background

It looks cute, but this plant is incredibly deadly to dogs. Here’s everything you need to know.

Woman in a coat soothing a rescued German Shepherd dog in a field outside

Buddha Dog Rescue and Recovery founder Nicole Asher’s pro tips for getting your missing pup home safe.

Man fishing with his dog on a lake.

Vets advise keeping your pup away from raw fish caught in rivers and lakes.

Confused dog lying in a field a green

If you think your dog ate marijuana, here are the signs to look out for.

Woman giving pill to Beagle Dog.

Always, always, always talk to your vet first.

A dog with its eyes closed and mouth open sitting on a hardwood floor.

Learn about the causes and what to do for a choking pet.

Woman looking out window with small white dog.

Everything you need to know about how the eclipse will affect your pets.

Dog sitting on a couch in a living room with plants

Thriving plants are spring’s whole thing—but these offenders can be perilous to pets.

Dog staring at chocolate cake on counter.

No isn’t a strong enough answer here. Learn why.

Dog lying on grass with a child standing next to them holding an easter basket filled with eggs.

Want to include your four-legged family member in the seasonal fun? Of course you do.

a dog from Curb Your Enthusiasm wearing a coyote vest

Clearly, Larry David wants your pup to be safe from coyotes. Here’s why you should, too.


a dog with a person mixing chocolate

These are the most common reasons pet parents call poison control.

A cute dog standing outside with a leash looking up.

Dognappers are targeting designer breeds like French Bulldogs. We asked a pet detective for tips on how to keep your pup safe.

Woman collecting flowers and dog entering the river surrounded with trees.

Experts are warning pet parents to keep their pups out of the Colorado River.

Gorgeous girl and her dog best friend chilling and spending their free time together.

Why you should talk to your vet first.

A shot of a young woman hugging lovely her little dog while lying down on the sofa in her living room.

The short answer is no. Here’s why.

Male Alaskan Malamute dog stands in the yard between the plants

Why it’s best to avoid these altogether.

Dog investigating frozen lake shore.

And why you deserve a pat on the back for indulging them.

Young Woman Working From Home with Her Dog

Brb, running out to buy air plants and succulents.

Young woman takes husky dogs for a winter walk.

Tips for safe, snug, and happy paws this winter.

A woman holding a dog outside in the snow

Sometimes, your pup has to be exposed to the elements—and you have to keep them warm when they are. Here’s how.

a woman pets her dog in a coat while outside in the snow

If your teeth are chattering, theirs probably are, too.

A couple bundled up for winter standing outside in the snow with their dog.

Yep, all those warnings your mom gave you as a kid apply to your dog, too. Learn how to keep your pup safe in the cold.

Puppy eating his food next to the window.

Here’s what you need to know if you think your pet has been affected.

A woman with tattoos with close shaved blonde hair wearing a tan sweater hugging her merle coat dog outside of a dog shelter

Find out what to do when your pet goes missing with these tips from a pet recovery expert.

Young asian woman with dog at home.

No, Pepto Bismal is a medication that should not be given to dogs.

Large black and white dog sitting next to Poinsettia plants.

Everything you need to know about the notorious plant.

Jack Russell dog in backseat of s car wearing a safety harness and seat belt

Hitting the road with your dog? Make sure they're safe with this helpful advice.

Golden Retriever dog chewing on rawhide toy seated on a blanket by a window

The six dangers of rawhide dog bones.

Overhead shot of a dog and a broken chocolate bar on the floor

Scarier than Halloween Kills.

An angry looking cat hiding under a couch.

Puppy mills and animal traffickers are tricking Craigslist users into purchasing dangerously — sometimes terminally — sick dogs.

Veterinary Ambulance of So Cal, run by Albert Sanchez.

Albert Sanchez’s Veterinary Ambulance of Southern California brings pets to accessible emergency vet care when they need it—any time of day or night.

A dog cuddled up next to its owner on the couch

Some preventatives have been linked to neurological issues, like stumbling, seizures, and twitching in dogs and cats. Here’s what you need to know.

dog playing in a pond

Pet parents, watch out for a common — but deadly — plant.

Big black dog, "Serbian defense dog" crossing a river.

It doesn’t just affect humans. Thankfully, this kind of wound infection is uncommon, but here’s what to look out for.

A dog tugging on a toy outside

Tips for pet parents who want their pups to have safe fun.

Side view of smiling blonde woman with stick playing with black German Dane pet on beach.

Let’s debunk some things right now for new pet parents with questions.

Cute Cocker Spaniel Puppy Sitting Between White Hydrangea Flowers.

You can live your best New England cottage life. Just keep your dog away from this plant.

Woman Scratches Her Dogs Belly On The Floor with Snake Plant in the corner.

Just get a new dog? Might be time to find a new home for your snake plant.

Woman Scratches Her Dogs Belly On The Floor with Snake Plant in the corner.

Just get a new dog? Might be time to find a new home for your snake plant.

A bright blue public dog bowl with a sign that reads “dog friendly” above it.

A good basic rule: It’s best to bring your own water.

Big brown dog resting on dog mat with Peace Lillies and sunlight.

Keep your pup far away from the toxic plant.

Man laying on floor playing with dog

Is your home a danger zone for a new dog? Follow these pro tips.

Woman holding a beagle in warm dappled summer light

Some like it hot (but not most dogs). Here are the season’s health hazards, from fleas to foxtails.

Young woman in checkered shirt putting modern wireless headphones on loyal Great Dane dog against gray wall at home.

Dogs’ hearing is way more sensitive than ours. These top-rated earmuffs can help drown out scary sounds like fireworks.

Woman taking care of her sick dog at home.

There are safer alternatives, and you should always, always check with a vet before giving your pup anything.

Dog on leash running in a field without foxtails

Late spring is prime time for these blades of grass that pose a serious risk to your pup.

Puppy looks up while sitting next to a puzzle toy with food.

Plus 6 stylish slow-feed dog bowls.

Woman Doing Fitness With A Dog On The Beach

There’s such a thing as too much of a good thing.

Golden retriever dogs chasing each other through a yard in play.

These apparent canine meccas can pose real risks to your dog’s overall safety.

Dog crossing road on a leash with pet parent carrying a bouquet of flowers

These stems are sure to make Mom smile (and avoid a trip to the pet ER).

A dog laying down looking sad.

You aren’t the only one getting way too high from edibles. A study published on 4/20 found an uptick in cannabis poisonings in pets.

Dog on ground looking at geese

Several cats and one dog in North America have died of the virus. Here’s how to keep them safe.

woman holds small dog with upset stomach

A vet’s-eye-view of an all-too-common problem.

Brown and white dog with perky ears stick their head out of the open window of a car

A proposed bill in the state would impose safer rules for dogs riding in cars.

Basset Hound sitting in a bright sunny apartment beside a potted palm tree

Boutique NYC nursery The Sill gives us the dirt on dog-friendly plants.

Gray cat with green eyes looking into distance

Residents have reported concerning health problems with their animals.

Owner adjusts collar with tags on their dog

Spoiler: there are no cons.

woman with new puppy

Sound advice from seasoned dog and cat parents who have been there.

Dog in the grass outside chewing on a bully stick

Two experts—a veterinary dentist and internist—rate the most popular dog bones.

Beagles playfully running free after being rescued from an animal testing facility.

The U.S. has a long way to go when it comes to ending what Gov. Gavin Newsom calls cruel and unnecessary testing.

Collage of different Chef characters from Hulu's TV series "The Bear" with two images of a French Bulldog wearing a chef costume mixed in

Because there’s nothing scarier than being off-trend.

a dog looking up at a hand holding a treat

This healthy snack for humans isn't so healthy for your pup. Here's why it's best to avoid them.

Dog sitting behind a basket of Wondercide products on the grass outside

Enter: Wondercide, a plant-based, sustainable, pesticide-free mosquito-repellent set safe to use around your pet.

brown dog begging for food at table

Even if they ain’t too proud to beg…

Dog-friendly backyard, dog playing in the sprinkler

Kiddie pools aren’t just for kids!

Sad tan and white puppy laying on the floor in the living room

A key number to remember here: 21.

Woman in athletic clothing jogging up stairs in a tropical city with her two dogs on leashes running with her

You — yes you! — can be one of those fun people who runs with your dog. Just be smart about it.

A frenchie dog waiting for food as a woman bends down to pour food into a dog bowl.

And according to a new study, it’s putting their health at risk.

Rottweiler puppy chewing on a white flower in a garden

It may protect your plants, but at what cost? A veterinarian explains how this toxin may keep your garden safe — but its extremely toxic to dogs. Heres everything you need to know.

A woman lovingly petting a dog.

Yikes! A new strain of tick-borne disease Rickettsia could infect pets and their people.

A sad dog in a cage with its head and paws sticking out.

The state passed a bill that will end the inhumane breeding and transport process. 

goldendoodle puppy playing in grass in yard

10 steps to a safe outdoor space. Landscaper not required.

Bearded Collie running in a lake

How to keep your swim fan safe.

A shorthair cat itching.

Don’t make this dangerous mistake when picking out flea prevention products.

dog with tennis ball

For starters, many tennis balls for pets are loaded with lead and arsenic.

A puppy chewing on a bone

Dr. Shea Cox warns pet parents about the unexpected dangers of dog bones.

Pet dog sniffing around in a domestic garden

It might sound obvious, but these rodenticides are harmful to pups.

A cat licking a persons hand.

Pet parents beware of the dangers in your medicine cabinet.

Dog in an Emergency Rescue Harness

Homegrown in New Hampshire by Mountain Dogware.

Sick dog being pet and comforted by her owner

Swallowing a penny comes at a high price for dogs.

Dog Drinking Water From A Pond In The Nature

The deadly disease is most common in autumn and late summer. Find out how to keep your pup safe.

A dog looking at a fish her owner caught in the river

This little-known disease can cause big problems for pups in the Pacific Northwest.

Beagle dog fetching a green rope in a dog-proofed living room.

Our room-to-room guide to get your house in dog-safe shape.

Hungarian pointer dog wears a Seresto Flea & Tick collar

The popular preventative has been linked to nearly 1,700 pet deaths. Here's what you need to know.

Bang Kaew dog looking at a snake

Step one: Get your pup to the vet ASAP.

Staffordshire bull terrier dog eating grass

From (human) prescription meds to poinsettia plants, these "toxic" items may not be so bad for your pup.

Dog in the kitchen with girl making cookies from dough on the counter

Active yeast puts dogs at risk for obstruction and alcohol poisoning.

Black French bulldog in dandelion field

Who knew this was something to worry about?

Dog near a vegetable garden next to a basket full of a harvest

Garden organically, for the sake of both the planet and your dogs.

A couple int he living room playing with a laser on the couch with their dog

Learn why these red beams of light are bad for dogs.

Black and gray miniature schnauzer dog against a dark gray background of vapors from an e-cigarette

Here's how e-cigarettes impact your pup.

A woman opening a beer bottle while sitting next to her dog.

If you’re home brewing beer, beware of this highly toxic bitter plant.

dog food poured out of a plastic container into a stainless steel bowl

Plastics and endocrine-disrupting chemicals raise red flags.