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Disclosure: This article is sponsored by Puainta. Veterinary guidance reflects current veterinary best practices and professional judgment.  When your dog’s coat starts looking a little dull or their skin feels dry, fish oil may help support comfort from the inside out. Marine omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, are healthy fats that pets cannot synthesize well on their own. Adding a high quality fish oil, with guidance from your veterinarian, can help support skin health, coat appearance, and overall wellness. Below is a simple, vet-led guide to how omega-3s work, how to shop for a trustworthy product, and where Puainta’s Krill & Salmon Oil blend fits into that picture. What Omega-3 Fatty Acids Do for PetsOmega-3s are healthy fats that help keep cell membranes flexible. Fish and marine algae are the best sources because they contain the two omega-3s pets actually use:
Takeaway: When shopping, he most important numbers to check are the milligrams of EPA + DHA per serving. These represent the active omega-3s your pet’s body can use. Many products highlight “total omega-3,” but that number includes fats that are not as beneficial for pets. You are buying EPA and DHA, not a vibe. Compare milligrams, not marketing. Omega-6: omega-3 ratio, what does that even mean?Your pet’s food contains different fats. Two families matter here, omega-6 and omega-3.
Takeaway: The ratio is simply how much omega-6 your pet eats compared to omega- 3. Many pets get plenty of omega-6 from regular food. Adding a quality fish oil increases omega-3 in your dog's diet, which helps bring the ratio into a friendlier balance for skin, coat, and overall comfort. Why Ingredient Sources Matter for Omega-3sNot all omega-3 sources are the same. Marine oils offer EPA and DHA directly, which is better for dogs and cats. Here’s how the common sources compare:
Takeaway: For EPA and DHA, marine sources work best. How to pick a fish oil without overthinking itUse this five step checklist when shopping for a fish oil:Verify the source. ✅ Look for named fish, such as anchovy, salmon, or krill, and harvesting regions. ✅ Look for proof of purity and ingredient content analysis. A current Certificate of Analysis shows heavy metal and contaminant screening by lot. This is either available on the website. If not, call the company's customer care line. ✅ Compare real numbers. Choose by mg of EPA + DHA per serving, not just total omega-3. ✅ Match the form to your pet. Liquid for easy measuring. Soft chews for picky pets. ✅Protect freshness. Dark or opaque bottle, tight cap, cool storage. If it smells strongly rancid, skip it. Takeaway: Source, proof, numbers, form, freshness. If a brand checks these boxes, you are in business. Serving Fish Oil SafelyFollow the product label for your pet’s weight and the concentration of EPA and DHA. If your pet is new to fish oil, start with half the serving size for a few days, then move to full. For medically complex pets or those already on medication, ask your veterinarian for personalized guidance. It's always good to check with your vet before you start any new supplement with your pet. Takeaway: Label first, vet for specifics, go slow at the start. Most healthy pets do well with fish oil when used as directed, but here are a couple of tips:
Takeaway: Simple habits keep fish oil safe and effective. Vet Review: Puianta Krill & Salmon Oil Puainta’s formula brings together two marine sources that naturally provide EPA and DHA: wild-caught Alaskan salmon oil and Antarctic krill oil. Together, they create a blend designed for everyday omega-3 support. Two ingredient features stand out: ✅️ Naturally high omega-3 concentration Puainta’s blend contains 25% total omega-3 fatty acids, which is a fairly high concentration for a liquid fish oil. A higher percentage of omega-3s means more of what you are shopping for in each serving. ✅️ Dual-source marine oils Using both salmon and krill offers complementary benefits. Salmon contributes EPA and DHA in a familiar fish oil format, while krill provides the same omega-3s in a phospholipid form that mixes well with food. Many pets also enjoy the flavor. These two points, concentration and source, are helpful when comparing fish oils in general. They are also two of the clearest reasons pet parents choose Puainta’s Salmon and Krill Oil. Puainta also offers a straightforward value price with a posted 30 day money back guarantee, third party tests their products for purity and ingredient content. For pet parents looking for a fish oil that focuses on skin, coat, and overall wellness for their pet, Puainta’s blend checks the boxes I look for in an everyday supplement. As always, ask the company for their most recent Certificate of Analysis if you’d like to see testing values such as oxidation scores or EPA + DHA milligrams per serving. Use code DRSARAH10 at checkout to save 10%. Sponsored link.  To your pet's health, Dr. Sarah FAQCan one fish oil product work for both dogs and cats?
Yes, but follow a product labeled for cats or use species specific directions. Cats are not small dogs. Serving size differs for cats vs. dogs, and flavor acceptance matters. How long until I notice changes? Many pet parents see skin and coat changes within a few weeks of daily use. Timing varies by pet. Can I add fish oil to a complete diet? Yes. Many complete diets can be complemented with omega-3s. Follow the label for serving size and keep an eye on total calories. How do I store fish oil? Keep the cap tight, store in a cool and dark place. Do not leave it open on the counter. Check dates. If it smells strongly rancid, do not use it. What if my pet refuses the taste Mix with food, split the serving size, or try a different form. If refusal continues, ask your veterinarian about algal oil as an alternative. References:
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  By Jeremy Steckler
Originally Published on the Redfin blog For many Americans, rising housing costs aren’t just straining budgets – they’re forcing heartbreaking decisions. Nearly half of U.S. homeowners and renters (44.4%) say they struggle to afford their monthly housing costs, according to a Redfin-commissioned survey. Most households under pressure are making smaller trade-offs, like eating out less (41%) or skipping vacations (34.6%). But for some, the sacrifices cut much deeper: 4.6% of struggling homeowners and renters said they’ve had to give up their pets in order to keep a roof over their heads. That may sound like a small share, but given how widespread housing struggles are, it represents thousands of families facing the choice of surrendering a beloved companion just to stay afloat. Why people are making this sacrifice Housing costs have risen dramatically in recent years. The median U.S. home-sale price is up more than 40% since before the pandemic, mortgage rates have nearly doubled, and the typical asking rent has jumped over 22%. At the same time, incomes have only just started to keep pace. When families are forced to choose between paying for rent or a mortgage and covering pet-related expenses – like food, vet care, or housing deposits – some end up making the decision to part ways with their pets. 6 ways to lower pet expenses right now When housing costs or other everyday expenses are high, even small savings can make a difference. These quick adjustments can help lower the day-to-day costs of caring for your pet without requiring big changes or long-term planning. 1. Learn basic grooming skills. Instead of taking your pet to the groomer every 1-2 months, learn how to clip nails, brush teeth, and bathe your pet at home. By teaching yourself or taking a class, you can save hundreds of dollars a year. 2. Look for affordable food options. Your pet’s diet is important, but that doesn’t mean you need to overspend. Buying in bulk, choosing store brands, or teaming up with another pet owner to split larger bags can help cut costs without sacrificing your pet’s health. 3. Make your own treats and toys at home. Break out your chef hat and apron and learn how to make healthy treats for your pets at home. Save on costly premium treats from the store, and make a big batch at home from pantry staples. Simple DIY toys, like a T-shirt rope or homemade squeaky toy, can also entertain pups without any extra spending. 4. Take advantage of low-cost vet clinics. Many shelters, humane societies, and nonprofits host free or discounted events several times a year for basics like shots and microchipping – an affordable way to stay on top of preventative care. 5. Look for secondhand supplies. Instead of buying new crates, beds, or toys, look into purchasing some of your pet supplies secondhand through community groups, thrift stores, or online marketplaces. 6. Apply for assistance programs. Instead of giving up your furry companion, look into what assistance programs are available. Organizations like RedRover Relief, The Pet Fund, or local humane societies offer grants or short-term financial help with vet bills, medication, or even emergency boarding. 5 preventative tips to lower future pet costs If you are in a place financially where you can currently afford your basic necessities and your pet but are looking for ways to prepare for the future, read on for some additional tips. 1. Schedule twice-a-year wellness exams with your vet. Preventative care is one of the easiest ways to lower your pet expenses. Though it may be more costly in the short run to schedule biannual exams, it could pay for itself should the vet catch any serious health issues before they get worse and require more expensive care. 2. Promote a balanced diet and healthy exercise. Although exams can catch serious issues as they arise, a balanced diet and regular exercise can help prevent health issues from occurring in the first place. 3. Set aside money for emergencies. Having a pet can be expensive, but setting aside even $10–$20 a month in a dedicated savings account can help cover surprise expenses. Pet insurance is another option, too, but make sure you’re clear on what your plan does and does not cover. 4. Buy pet supplies in bulk. Whether it’s pet food, litter, or waste bags, purchasing pet supplies in bulk can help bring costs down. If you don’t have the available funds to purchase in bulk, consider signing up for subscription deliveries where your monthly costs can stay low but you’ll still take advantage of additional discounts. 5. Invest in training early. Teaching basic obedience can prevent behavior issues that lead to damage fees in rentals or higher costs later on. The bottom line: keeping pets in the family, even on a tight budget Pets bring companionship, joy, and comfort – especially during tough times. While housing costs are pushing many families to the brink, making immediate changes to cut expenses and planning ahead for the future can improve your chances of staying in your home and keeping your pet by your side. Survey results are from a Redfin-commissioned Ipsos survey, May 2025, fielded to more than 4,000 U.S. homeowners and renters.  A happy dog poking its head out the car window—road trip tips and safety measures make pet travel more comfortable. The holidays are coming, and whether you’re driving across state lines or catching a flight to Grandma’s house, traveling with pets can feel like planning a military campaign. Between packing, planning, and calming your fur-baby’s nerves, it’s easy to let stress hijack the holiday joy. But with a little prep + the right mindset, you can take those trips with your pet without the paws, the paws-turbance, or the pet tantrums. Let’s get you set up for a smooth ride (or smooth flight!). 🚗 Pre-Trip Prep: Road & Air
🛫 Road Trip Tips
✈️ Flying with Pets
🧳 During Travel & After Arrival
✔️ Takeaways for Stress-Free Pet Travel
Q: Is anxiety medicine safe for pets when traveling? A: When prescribed by your veterinarian and given proper dosing, certain anxiety aids are safe. But don’t try over-the-counter stuff without vet guidance — risk of sedation, interactions, or unsafe effects at altitude exist. Q: What kind of crate is best for flying? A: Airline-approved, sturdy crate that allows enough space for the pet to turn, stand, and lie down. Use absorbent bedding and a familiar blanket or toy inside. Q: How long before a road trip should I acclimate my pet to a vehicle? A: Start early — even weeks in advance. Short practice rides with rewards help build positive associations. Q: Can I bring my pet’s food through security or on the plane? A: Usually yes, for carry-ons: dry food is fine; wet/frozen food may have restrictions. Check your airline + TSA or relevant airport rules. Q: What should I do if my pet eats something they shouldn’t while traveling? A: Have contact info for emergency vet clinics along your route or at your destination. Keep a basic first aid kit and bar access to toxic plants, medications, foods, etc. If your pet eats something they shouldn't, call the local veterinarian or Pet Poison Hotline.  That breath? Not just bad luck. Dental checkups save more than smiles — keep your pup’s grill healthy! Your dog’s teeth may not be at the top of your to-do list — until that “toxic cloud” of dog breath hits you in the face. Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs, yet it’s surrounded by myths that keep pet parents from getting the care their pups need. Let’s bust the top 5 myths about dog dental health.  🦷 Myth #1: Dogs Don’t Need Dental Care
The Truth: Over 80% of dogs have some form of dental disease by age three. Left untreated, bacteria from the mouth can travel to the heart, kidneys, and liver. Dental care isn’t a luxury — it’s essential. 🦴 Myth #2: Chew Toys and Bones Clean Teeth Just Fine The Truth: Chews can help reduce plaque, but they’re no substitute for professional cleanings. Hard bones can also break teeth. Think of them as a toothbrush “bonus,” not a replacement. 🍗 Myth #3: Dry Food Keeps Teeth Clean The Truth: Kibble may provide some abrasion, but not nearly enough to prevent tartar. Dental-specific diets exist, but regular kibble isn’t a dental plan. 💨 Myth #4: Bad Breath Is Normal in Dogs The Truth: “Doggy breath” isn’t just gross — it’s usually a sign of dental disease. Fresh breath = healthy mouth. If your dog’s breath could peel paint, it’s time for a dental checkup. 🐕 Myth #5: Professional Dental Cleanings Are Optional (or Dangerous) The Truth: Anesthesia-free cleanings only scrape the surface and miss disease under the gumline. This is actually more dangerous for your pet because the teeth look clean but there is still problems under the gums, which lead to gingivitis, pain, and tooth loss. Professional cleanings under anesthesia are the gold standard for safe, thorough dental care. ✅ What You Can Do for Your Dog’s Teeth
Bottom Line Dog dental health myths may be common, but they can cost your pup their teeth — and more. With the right care, your dog’s smile can stay as healthy as their wag. Warmly, Dr. Sarah ❓FAQs: Dog Dental Health Q: Is bad breath normal in dogs? A: No. Bad breath is usually a sign of dental disease, not something to ignore. Healthy dog mouths shouldn’t smell foul. Q: Can I brush my dog’s teeth at home? A: Yes! Daily brushing with a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste is the gold standard for prevention. Start slow and reward your dog to build tolerance. Q: Are dental chews enough to keep my dog’s teeth clean? A: Dental chews help reduce plaque and freshen breath, but they can’t replace regular brushing or professional dental cleanings. Q: Is it safe for dogs to have dental cleanings under anesthesia? A: Yes. While anesthesia always carries some risk, modern veterinary anesthetic protocols are very safe. Anesthesia-free cleanings, on the other hand, miss disease under the gumline. Q: How often should my dog have a professional dental cleaning? A: It depends on your dog’s breed, age, and individual dental health. Many dogs benefit from yearly cleanings, but your veterinarian can recommend the right schedule. Q: Do small dogs really have worse dental problems? A: Yes. Toy and small breeds are more prone to tartar buildup and tooth loss because their teeth are crowded into small jaws. They often need more frequent cleanings.  Photo by Michael Oxendine on Unsplash  Pumpkin spice latte season is here — but while you’re enjoying cozy vibes, your dog might be miserable. If your pup is scratching nonstop, licking their paws, or shaking their head this fall, seasonal allergies may be the culprit. Just like people, dogs can react to pollen, mold, and dust. The difference? They can’t tell you what’s wrong. Here’s how to spot dog allergies, when to worry, and what to do to give your furry friend some relief. 🍂 What Causes Fall Allergies in Dogs?
🐶 Common Signs of Dog Allergies Unlike humans (who sneeze and get watery eyes), dogs usually show allergies on their skin and ears:
🏥 When to See the Vet Some mild allergies can be managed at home, but call your veterinarian if you notice:
⚠️ Pro tip: Ear infections linked to allergies rarely go away on their own. Waiting = worse infections = more expensive treatment. 💊 Treatment Options
🏡 What You Can Do at Home
 🐾 Bottom Line
If your dog is itchy this fall, don’t dismiss it as “just dry skin.” Seasonal allergies are real, uncomfortable, and can lead to bigger problems if untreated. With your vet’s help (and some at-home TLC), you can keep your pup comfy while you sip that pumpkin spice latte. Warmly, Dr. Sarah Client Conversations About Supplements: Navigating Evidence, Anecdotes, and Amazon Reviews9/17/2025  Veterinarians often find themselves guiding pet parents through the overwhelming world of supplements — balancing science, safety, and client concerns. Every day, pet owners walk into exam rooms armed with Amazon carts, TikTok hacks, and anecdotes from their neighbor’s dog walker’s cousin. Supplements — from fish oil to CBD chews to mushroom powders — are booming. As veterinary professionals, we’re left balancing three things: scientific evidence, client beliefs, and the Wild West of the internet. Here’s how to keep the conversation respectful, evidence-based, and relationship-building (without wanting to bang your head against the otoscope). 📈 The Supplement Explosion
🧪 The Evidence Spectrum Think of supplements as falling into three buckets:
💬 Communication Pearls 1. Lead with Curiosity, Not Judgment Instead of: “That’s useless.” Try: “Tell me what you’ve heard about it.” 👉 Clients feel respected, and you get insight into their motivations. 2. Validate the Intention Most owners want to help their pets. Acknowledge that: “I love that you’re looking for ways to support Bella’s joints.” 3. Translate the Evidence Offer a simple, non-jargon summary:
If a client brings a weakly supported supplement: “We don’t have much research on that one. But here’s a supplement that’s been shown to help in similar cases.” 🛠️ Practical Tools for Teams
 🐾 Bottom Line
Supplements aren’t going away — if anything, they’re multiplying like rabbits on TikTok. Our job isn’t to crush client enthusiasm, but to channel it into safe, effective, and evidence-based care. By staying curious, validating intentions, and offering credible alternatives, you build trust — and keep the conversation (and relationship) alive. To your patients' health (and your sanity) ~Dr. Sarah  Litterbox woes got you down? No worries - you can solve this. You walk into the living room, and there it is — a suspicious wet spot on the carpet. Your sweet, fluffy angel has suddenly decided the litter box is optional. Before you start Googling “revenge peeing” or wondering if your cat hates you, take a deep breath. Cats don’t pee outside the box to spite you — they’re trying to tell you something. As a veterinarian, I’m here to help you decode the message. 🚑 First Things First: Rule Out Medical Causes Sudden changes in litter box habits are often linked to health problems. Some common culprits:
🧠 Behavioral & Environmental Causes Once medical issues are ruled out, it’s time to look at the environment and your cat’s emotional world.
🔎 When to Worry Call your vet if you notice:
⚠️ Male cats are at high risk for urinary blockages — a true emergency. If your male cat can’t pee, go to the ER vet immediately.  🛠️ How to Help Your Cat Get Back on Track
💡 Bottom Line Cats don’t “pee out of spite.” If your feline friend is peeing outside the box, it’s their way of waving a little red flag. Start with your veterinarian to rule out health problems, then make their litter box setup cat-approved. With patience (and a little detective work), you can usually solve the mystery and keep everyone’s sanity — and carpets — intact. To your cat's health, Dr. Sarah FAQs: Q: Is my cat peeing outside the litter box out of spite? A: No. Cats don’t seek revenge. Peeing outside the box almost always signals a medical issue, stress, or something about the litter box setup they don’t like. Q: How do I know if it’s a medical problem? A: Look for straining, frequent trips to the box, blood in urine, crying, or small urine spots. These signs mean it’s time to see your veterinarian immediately. Q: My male cat can’t pee at all — what should I do? A: This is a life-threatening emergency. Male cats can develop urinary blockages that can be fatal within hours. Go to an emergency vet right away. Q: How many litter boxes should I have? A: One per cat + one extra. Even in small homes, multiple boxes prevent territorial disputes and reduce accidents. Q: What’s the best type of litter? A: Most cats prefer unscented, clumping litter. Try different textures if your cat is picky — but always change gradually. Q: Can stress really make my cat pee outside the box? A: Yes. Cats are creatures of habit. Stress from new pets, visitors, moving, or even rearranging furniture can trigger accidents. Q: How do I clean cat urine so my cat doesn’t go back to the same spot? A: Use an enzymatic cleaner designed for pet urine. Regular cleaners may remove the smell to you, but cats can still detect it. Q: Should I punish my cat for peeing outside the box? A: Never. Punishment increases stress and makes the problem worse. Instead, focus on finding and fixing the cause. Q: Will peeing outside the box go away on its own? A: Usually not. If it’s medical, it needs treatment. If it’s behavioral, you’ll need to adjust the environment. Don’t wait — address it early.  Pet parents always want the best for their furry family members—and fish oil is a go-to supplement. But with so many “miracle claims” online, what’s legit science. No worries - I’ll walk you through when fish oil truly helps, how to pick wisely, and how to dose like a pro. What Exactly Is Fish Oil?
Benefits of Fish Oil in Pets
 Risks & Things to Watch Out For Fish oil isn’t a “more is better” supplement. Potential downsides include:
How to Choose a Fish Oil Supplement
How Much Is Too Much? Follow the label dosage or your vet’s instructions—giving more won’t help and can increase side effect risks. FAQs Q: Can I give salmon oil instead? A: Yep—just be sure it lists EPA/DHA amounts clearly. Q: My cat is picky—how can I get them to take it? A: Try puncturing a capsule and mixing it into their food, or look for flavored chews. Q: What about krill oil vs. fish oil? A: Krill oil also contains omega-3s, but most peer-reviewed pet studies focus on fish oil. Stick with the scientifically validated option.  To Your Pet's Health ~ Dr. Sarah
Guest post by Dr. Don LeHoullier, DVM and Veterinary Expert for CareCredit Pet  Every season brings its own brand of fun for our furry friends – cue the slow-motion videos of dogs of all sizes and breeds gleefully diving into piles of newly raked leaves. And of course, there are those adorable photo ops of cats and dogs in Halloween costumes. But it’s important not to overlook potential dangers as the changing seasons bring us shorter days, colder nights, deep freezes, and winter storms. In addition to protecting our furry family members, getting ahead of the potential issues affecting pets this season can help alleviate financial anxiety. In fact, according to Synchrony’s Lifetime of Care survey, nearly half of respondents underestimated the lifetime cost of care for dogs and cats, which ranges from $15,000 to $55,000. This is significant, as 46% said they would experience financial anxiety if faced with a vet bill of $500. “More than 90 million U.S. homes include a pet, and you may be one of those pet parents with an emergency vet visit this fall” said Jonathan Wainberg, senior vice president and general manager, Pet, Synchrony. “Pet parents need to factor in planned AND unexpected costs into their monthly savings plans, so that they are prepared for any eventuality. By getting ahead of these bills, consumers can look into the available flexible payment solutions to manage the cost of care throughout their pet's lifetime.” To mitigate potential health issues and unplanned veterinary costs, pet parents should consider the following examples of the potential dangers facing pets this fall.  Wildlife Threats Many critters can pose severe risks to pets including ticks and snakes preparing for hibernation. While it’s important to protect pets from ticks year-round, they’re especially active in the fall, which is why it’s important to consider flea and tick prevention measures. To reduce the chances of stumbling upon a snake, do a quick sweep of your backyard before letting your pet outside. Snakes typically like to hide in piled up rocks or logs, tall grass and hollow tree knots, so be sure to check all potential danger zones. Food also attracts wildlife, including pet food, garbage and seed in bird feeders. Racoons are especially guilty of raiding food that’s been left out, and it’s not uncommon for them to be aggressive toward dogs and cats in their pursuit of a quick bite. Be sure to bring all food inside before going to bed for the night to keep your pets safe. Poisons and Toxins In general, it’s a good rule of thumb to closely supervise your pets when they’re outside. Keeping an eye on them will allow you to intervene quickly if they encounter toxins such as mushrooms and moldy walnut shells. While only 1% of wild mushrooms are toxic, ingestion can be life-threatening. And moldy walnut shells mimic metaldehyde poisoning, which can be devastating and expensive to get through. Unfortunately, rodent poisons become more common in the fall to keep critters at bay, which is why it’s important to be vigilant in protecting your pet from accidental exposure. This includes in the park, your neighborhood and even your home! And with Halloween right around the corner, be sure to keep decorations out of reach including toxic plants like chrysanthemums as well as mold on pumpkins, gourds, and hay.  Weather and Daylight Changes Cooler temperatures and longer nights can also impact pets’ behavior and well-being. Wearing reflective gear can help to keep your pet (and yourself) visible when taking late night strolls. It’s also important to keep pets warm as temperatures drop. And if it’s especially snowy, be sure to protect your pets’ paws with booties or salves. Finally, as with humans, pets’ allergies can be brutal in the fall – especially ragweed and mold. Keep an eye out for symptoms like excessive sheading, scratching and biting the coat or skin, and compulsive paw licking. Runaway Pets As awful as it is to think about, the above dangers can increase the risk of pets running away. Whatever you do, make sure your pets are microchipped and your contact information is updated. I can’t tell you how many unfortunate stories I’ve encountered with pets escaping and the owners aren't locatable. Similar to fireworks during the 4th of July, pets can become anxious when they hear constant doorbell ringing during trick-or-treating. With higher foot traffic on this spooky day, there’s a greater risk of escape. Protect them from scary ghouls, goblins and noises by investing in a thunder vest, which functions the same way as a baby swaddle. Gentle constant pressure calms the sympathetic nervous system and stimulates the Vagus nerve to de-activate the “fight or flight” response. Fall is a great time of year for pets – but only if the proper precautions are taken. A snuggle and treat usually help with common scares like the dreaded vacuum and car rides, but pets don’t do well with seasonal change. At the beginning of each season, talk to your vet about how you can mitigate any potential harm from befalling your beloved pet.  Written by: Dr. Don LeHoullier, DVM and Veterinary Expert for CareCredit Pet
Don LeHoullier is a veterinarian and owner of Countryside Veterinary Clinic in Jefferson, OR. In this role he works on a variety of animals ranging from dogs and cats to the occasional farm animal. Dr. LeHoullier has a Certificate in Veterinary Technology, received a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Oregon State University College of Agriculture and graduated from Oregon State University College of Veterinary Medicine with a Doctorate degree in Veterinary Medicine. Dr. LeHoullier took a particular interest in pain and analgesics, and advanced anesthesiology. He also spent time abroad, training in Australia and New Zealand. In 2002, Dr. LeHoullier researched the effects of photodynamic therapy for the treatment of equine sarcoids in vivo and in vitro as part of the Merck-Merial Research Program. In the same year, he also assisted in a project studying the vasoconstrictive effects of ergot alkaloids on bovine blood vessels in vitro. In his free time, Dr. LeHoullier enjoys spending time outdoors, building PCs and gaming, and growing exotic chilis.
Summer is in full swing - heat, BBQs, pool days, relaxing - what's not to like?
Summer is also fun for dogs and cats, but there are some summer hazards that I want to highlight so that you can stay safe, sane, and OUT of the vet hospital this summer! (ain't nobody got time or money for that...so let's prevent accidents!) In this blog post I'll be sharing my top 7 seven summer safety tips. 1. Never Leave Your Pet Alone in a Hot Car. Despite widespread media coverage, hundreds of dogs and cats left in cars perish in heat-related deaths during the summer. According to the AVMA, the temperature inside a car can increase by 20 degrees in 10 minutes, 30 degrees in 20 minutes, and after 60 minutes the temperature can rise by more than 40 degrees. Furthermore, a number of states, counties, and municipalities are making it illegal to leave a pet inside a locked car, and allowing Good Samaritans and police to take drastic measures, such as breaking car windows, to free pets from hot cars. While heat stroke can be fatal, what you might not know is that even heat stress is hard on a pet's internal organs and can create problems down the road that can, you guessed it, cost you money and shorten your pet's life. When it comes to leaving pets unsupervised inside cars, for potential legal and health reasons, the best option is to not do it. If you cannot take the dog with them inside when they are out and about, leave the pet at home...unless you have a Tesla that has a/c that runs while the car is off (which is very cool, especially if you live in Phoenix, where the sun literally touches the earth...)
2. Protect Your Pet Against Parasites.
Summer means outdoor time, hiking, nature, and fun with pets in NATURE! Ah yes, we love nature, but we don't love all the exposure to intestinal parasitic eggs and hungry fleas and ticks. It is important to keep pests out of and off of pets by using external and internal parasite control. Parasite control not only protects the pets, it also protects against parasites that can infected people, like roundworms and hookworms. For peace of mind, use products that your veterinarian recommends. Pro tip: Most heart worm prevention contains dewormer for many intestinal parasites as well, so you get full spectrum worm protection - YEAH! 3. Noise Phobias are Real Late June and early July can be torture for pet guardians of dogs that are scared of fireworks. Signs of noise phobia/aversion can include:
Fortunately, there are lots of ways to calm pets, including prescription medications and at-home remedies, including:
If nothing is helping and you need help, schedule an appointment (can be by phone or zoom) with a behaviorist or your local veterinarian - they can help you develop multiple strategies that complement each other to help your pet stay calm and safe. 
4. Hot asphalt and concrete will burn paw pads.
Asphalt and cement can be 40-60 degrees hotter than the surrounding air temperature, meaning that if the temperature is 100 degrees, the pavement could be 150 degrees or hotter. Asphalt heated by the sun to 135 can fry a dog’s paws in seconds, and air temperature is not a good indicator of ground temperature. A good ‘rule of paw’ is to test pavement by pressing your own bare feet or hands for 10 seconds on the pavement. If it is too hot for you, then it is too hot for your dog - find a different, cooler way to get your daily exercise, or go for a walk on soft surfaces like dirt trails or grass. Boots aren't recommended because dogs cool themselves through their paws. 5. Exercise during the coolest part of the day. It boggles my mind to see people out jogging with their dogs in the heat of the day, but yet it still happens. Even walks in the hot sun for smush faced dogs can be torture and downright dangerous. Most times people just don’t understand that their dogs aren’t having a good time, or that it can be really bad for their dog’s health. If your dog is panting hard, laying down, dragging behind, or seeking shade then they are toooooo hot. Dogs and cats aren't great at cooling themselves, and heat stroke can be life threatening, so it is important to know the signs of heat stroke, and what to do when you notice the signs. In addition, when it is hot, it is important to provide ways for your pet to cool themselves, and not take brachycephalic (smushed faced) dogs out for exercise during the heat of the day (warmer than 80 degrees F), as they are even less able to cool themselves. Check below for some excellent cooling products to try with your dog. 
6. Check your dog for foxtails after they play in grass.
AH THE DREADED FOXTAIL! Unless you have experienced the drama and expense of a foxtail getting stuck somewhere in your dog, it is highly unlikely that you know about this summer danger. Foxtails are grass seeds that have a barb on one end, and fanned out fibers on the other end. These foxtails get caught EVERYWHERE on dogs, but especially in between toes, up noses, in ears, and in eyes. Always check your dog for foxtails after they have been out around grasses that are going to seed (July-August in most areas), especially in between toes. If your dog is licking their paw excessively, has a swelling or hole that is draining pus in between the toes, then get your dog checked by a vet asap, as these foxtails can break up and be really hard to find the longer they are under the skin. Like...really. For long and medium hair breeds, ask your groomer do a ‘foxtail’ cut on the feet - this trims hairs that can trap and obscure foxtail awns, making it easier for you or your dog to remove them. 7. Ear and Skin Infections are more common in summer and fall. Skin and ear problems due to seasonal grass and tree pollen allergies represents a large percentage of daily appointments in late spring, summer, and early fall. If your dog has seasonal allergies, get started with antihistamines and other control measures early to minimize symptoms and itchiness. Not sure how to control seasonal allergies? Talk to your vet, and read this blog post I wrote about everything pet parents need to know about skin infections. Ear infections due to seasonal allergies also tend to flair up during the summer. Ear infections also increase because dogs are swimming - and they can get 'swimmer's ear' just like people do. If your dog is predisposed to developing ear infections, clean their ears 1-2 a week with a high quality ear cleaner, like this one that I recommend from Life's Abundance. Alternatively, you can make your own at home with a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol - just a few drops in each ear will dry and acidify the ear, making it inhospitable to yeast and bacteria. Do NOT use a homemade rinse if your pet shows signs of ear infections (excessive scratching, redness, discharge, odor) - instead, take them to the vet for treatment. What are your recommendations for staying cool and healthy with your pet during the summer? Share your wisdom with us in the comment section below, and check out the summer products I recommend for pets! xoxo Dr. Sarah Cooling Products for Dogs:
Ear and Skin Care Products:
Calming Products:
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AuthorDr. Sarah Wooten is a small-animal veterinarian, international speaker, author, and passionate advocate for both pets and the people who love them. With over 20 years of experience in clinical practice, media, and continuing education, she specializes in making veterinary medicine clear, credible, and never boring. Archives
November 2025
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