pets
5 Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe from Warm Weather Hazards
Warmer weather brings hazards for pets, such as heat stroke, allergies, dangerous foods, party decorations, and swimming pools. Follow VCA Animal Hospitals’ safety tips.
Last Updated on August 20, 2024 by Daily News Staff
(Family Features) Enjoying the great outdoors is a common pastime for many when temperatures warm, and that includes those with furry companions. However, warmer weather also comes with a variety of hazards to those four-legged friends.
Weather Hazards?
To help keep your pets safe and enjoy all the season has to offer, consider these tips from the experts at VCA Animal Hospitals, which has more than 1,000 locations across North America and cared for more than 4 million pets last year.
Heat
Leaving pets in the yard for extended periods without access to shade or water on hot days, vigorous exercise or leaving them in vehicles even with windows rolled down can lead to heat stroke, a term commonly used for hyperthermia, or elevated body temperature. Pets suffering from heat stroke (temperature higher than 106 F) can have elevated breathing rates, dry or sticky gums, abnormal gum color, bruising in the gums, may appear lethargic or disoriented and can have seizures. Safe, controlled reduction of body temperature is an immediate priority. Cool water may be poured over the head, stomach, armpits and feet, or cool cloths may be applied to these areas and continually replaced.
Allergy-Causing Pests
Allergies are common in both dogs and cats, and warmer weather brings out fleas and ticks that can cause allergic reactions. Bites may cause intense itching, leading pets to scratch or chew on themselves, potentially causing hair loss. An effective, year-round flea and tick preventative regimen is key to keeping dogs and cats pest free and limiting allergic reactions. In cases of severe itching, antihistamines or corticosteroids (steroids) may be prescribed to provide immediate relief.
Human Food
Cookouts may mean barbecue chicken, ribs, steak, corn on the cob and fresh fruit like watermelon. Be wary of bones, which are not digestible and can pose a choking hazard, cause intestinal blockage or break into shards and cause irritations or infections. Similarly, corn cobs are not digestible and can get stuck in the stomach or intestinal tract, causing an obstruction. Watermelon rind and seeds can also block the GI tract, so be sure to remove the rind and seeds.
Party Decorations
Warm weather means festivals and parties. However, these outdoor gatherings often include items that are dangerous to pets:
- Glow sticks contain an oily liquid called dibutyl phthalate (DBP). While non-toxic in small amounts, DBP can cause gagging, drooling and irritation of the eyes, mouth and skin if pets bite glow sticks. If your pet chews a glow stick, offer water or a treat to tame the bitter taste. Turn off the lights and wash any glowing areas.
- Citronella candles work well as a deterrent for flying insects but open flames can burn whiskers and noses. The fumes may also cause breathing issues when inhaled and consuming the wax can cause GI and nervous system issues.
- Popped or non-inflated balloons can pose choking risks. String for anchoring them can also cause intestinal issues if swallowed and pets could become entangled in the string, posing tripping and strangulation risks.
Swimming Pools
While cats naturally shy away from water, both dogs and cats can fall into swimming pools accidentally. Dogs can sometimes struggle with getting out of the water even if they’re capable swimmers, so be sure to teach them to navigate the swim-out area and keep an eye on pets in the water – even good swimmers can tire of treading water and drown.
Find more tips to safely enjoy the warmer months with your furry friends at VCAHospitals.com.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
SOURCE:
VCA Animal Hospitals
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
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Last Updated on December 3, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Keeping Pets Safe This Holiday Season: 5 Festive Safety Tips for Pet Owners
(Family Features) The holiday season brings sparkling lights, cherished traditions and joyful gatherings with the people and pets you love most. As you deck the halls and prepare for cozy celebrations, it’s important to remember some of the magic of the season can also pose risks for curious cats and dogs. To provide pet owners added peace of mind, consider these tips from the experts at VCA Animal Hospitals, a leader in veterinary care with more than 1,000 locations dedicated to positively impacting pets, people and the communities they serve, to keep the holidays merry – and safe – for everyone. Decorations and Festive Outfits From family photos to holiday cards, many pet owners love including their companions in the festivities. If you dress your pet for pictures, choose outfits that are comfortable, allow easy movement and don’t interfere with breathing or vision. Pets are naturally drawn to shiny and dangling decor, so opt for shatterproof ornaments and avoid using tinsel, which can cause serious internal issues if swallowed. Hang small or salt-dough ornaments high on the tree, out of paws’ reach, to help prevent choking. After opening gifts, promptly discard wrapping paper, string and ribbon; items that may seem fun to play with but can be dangerous if ingested.
Food and Drinks Holiday tables overflow with delicious treats, but many seasonal foods can be harmful to pets. Chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol-sweetened candies and leftover meat scraps may lead to serious illness. Politely remind guests not to slip your pet any treats, no matter how festive the occasion feels. Quickly pack away food when meals end to help reduce temptation. Alcoholic beverages should also be kept well out of reach. Pets absorb alcohol much faster than humans, and even small amounts can cause alcohol poisoning. Candles and Burns The glow of candles and warm fireplaces add comfort and charm this time of year, but open flames pose fire risks and burn hazards for pets. Keep pets at a safe distance from fireplaces, wood stoves and space heaters, as curiosity can bring them too close. Consider using battery-operated candles in place of traditional ones. If you use real candles, ensure they’re placed out of reach and never left unattended; even stepping away for a moment can increase the risk of accidents. Plants and Trees Holiday greenery brings beauty to your home, but some plants require extra caution around pets. While Christmas trees themselves are generally non-toxic, the water in the tree stand may contain mold, bacteria or fertilizers. Use a tree skirt or cover to prevent pets from drinking from it. Decorative plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, lilies, holly and amaryllis can cause gastrointestinal upset if nibbled on. Keep these seasonal favorites well out of reach, especially if you live with adventurous or plant-curious pets. Cold Weather Walking Winter walks can be refreshing for you and your dog, but shorter days and colder weather mean extra care is needed. Use a non-retractable leash during early morning or evening walks, and ensure both you and your pet wear high-visibility gear so drivers and others can easily spot you.
If you live in an area with snow or ice, monitor conditions closely and watch the wind chill. Dressing your dog in a warm sweater or jacket and offering booties for paw protection can help them stay comfortable and safe on frosty outings. By taking a few thoughtful precautions, you can help ensure your pets enjoy a safe, joyful holiday season right alongside the rest of the family. If you have questions about winter safety or your pet’s health, consult your veterinarian. For more tips to keep your pet safe this holiday season, and to find a location near you, visit vcaholiday.com. Photos courtesy of Shutterstock Keeping Pets Safe This Holiday Season: 5 Festive Safety Tips for Pet Owners
SOURCE: VCA Animal HospitalsThe fate of Lucky Supermarkets in SoCalLink: https://stmdailynews.com/the-fate-of-lucky-supermarkets-in-socal/
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pets
Cozy Up to Peace of Mind: 4 Tips to Avoid Common Pet Hazards This Thanksgiving
Tips to Avoid Common Pet Hazards: Keep your furry friends safe this Thanksgiving with these 4 essential pet safety tips. Learn which foods are toxic to pets, how to pet-proof holiday decor, and what to do in emergencies. VCA Animal Hospitals offer 50% off ER exams to help protect your four-legged family members during the holidays.
Cozy Up to Peace of Mind: 4 Tips to Avoid Common Pet Hazards This Thanksgiving
(Family Features) Thanksgiving is a time for cozy gatherings with loved ones to share gratitude, crisp adventures, festive decor and, oftentimes, delicious food. However, many traditions associated with giving thanks, including the feast, can pose risks to your furry family members. Even with the best-laid plans, accidents can happen. From tempting table scraps to the crackling fire and festive decor, it’s important to take steps to prevent seasonal hazards from ruining the celebration for your pets. However, should those unforeseen moments occur, participating VCA Animal Hospitals Emergency Care locations offer access to world-class emergency medicine, 50% off an ER exam for all pet owners and free ER exams for CareClub members. For added peace of mind, taking these extra precautions during the festivities can help keep your furry friends safe and healthy: Skip the Table Scraps While pleading eyes can be hard to resist when you’re gathered around the table, remember – and remind little ones – many Thanksgiving foods can make pets sick. Avoid feeding pets turkey skin, which can trigger pancreatitis, or bones, which could splinter and lead to choking or internal injuries, and pack away any leftovers quickly to keep curious pets at bay. Similarly, beware of ingredients like onions, garlic and chives, which are common in stuffing and casseroles, and are toxic to both dogs and cats. If you want to include your four-legged family members in the celebration, plain turkey breast, unseasoned green beans or pumpkin puree are safe for most pets to consume. However, many other seasonal desserts contain chocolate, raisins, grapes or the sugar substitute xylitol, which can also be harmful. Be sure to keep beverages out of reach as well, as pets can quickly absorb alcohol, which may lead to alcohol poisoning. Mind the Decorations Seasonal decor can make your home feel welcoming, but pets are curious by nature and often attracted to new items in their living spaces. Help keep your furry friends safe by sitting or hanging decorations out of paws’ reach and unplugging extra cords and string lights when not in use as they pose a chewing – and shock – risk to pets. Beware of Open Flames Heat sources, such as fireplaces and wood stoves, can be enticing with their warm embers and golden hue, but they also pose serious fire and burn risks should wagging tails or chilly noses get too close. Keep pets a safe distance from open flames by placing a guard around the flame and, similarly, keep lit candles out of pets’ reach. Prepare for Cool-Weather Walks If you live in an area with snow and ice, be cautious of weather conditions when sending pets outside to play or use the bathroom, and consider a pet sweater or jacket and booties to protect them from the cold. When going out for walks, particularly during the early morning and late evening hours, use a non-retractable leash to keep furry family members close, wear high-visibility gear and avoid paths, roads and trails with limited lighting. Visit vcaholiday.com to find a location near you in case of emergency and more tips to keep your pets happy and healthy this Thanksgiving. Emergency Situations That Require Immediate Attention During the holidays – or any other time or year – accidents can happen. Should your pet be involved in any of these situations, they likely require emergency veterinary attention:- Severe accident or trauma
- Vomiting or diarrhea that goes on for an extended time
- Severe fever or malaise
- Birthing problems
- Broken bones
- Getting hit by a car
- Seizures
- Shock
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Attack by another animal
- Known or suspected toxin ingestion
- Difficulty breathing or severe coughing
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
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Last Updated on October 22, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Pittsburgh-based brand brings pumpkin and mint varieties to its protein-packed dog treats for active breeds
Bully Max is giving working dog owners something new to chew on this fall — literally. The Pittsburgh-based performance nutrition brand just expanded its popular High-Protein Power Chews line with two seasonal flavors designed to keep active and working breed dogs fueled year-round.
Power-Packed Performance in Every Bite
Each Bully Max Power Chew delivers an impressive 75 grams of protein made from 100% natural ingredients. That’s serious fuel for dogs that work hard, whether they’re on the job, in training, or just keeping up with an active lifestyle.
The brand built its reputation on understanding what high-performance dogs need: lasting strength, sustained energy, and nutrition that supports their demanding routines. These chews aren’t just treats — they’re functional nutrition wrapped in a long-lasting chew format that dogs actually enjoy.
Seasonal Flavors Meet Year-Round Performance
This fall, Bully Max rolled out a limited-edition Pumpkin flavor just in time for Halloween. The autumn-inspired variety brings gut health benefits alongside the brand’s signature protein punch, giving working dogs real endurance in every pumpkin-fueled bite.
Come Christmas, dog owners can look forward to a refreshing Mint flavor that’ll debut as part of the holiday lineup. Both seasonal varieties maintain the same performance-driven formula that made the original Power Chews a hit with active breed owners worldwide.
The Last-Bite Innovation
Here’s a clever feature that sets these chews apart: when your dog has worked the chew down to a small piece, you can safely microwave it to soften the remaining portion. That means dogs can enjoy every last bit without waste — and owners get more value from each chew.
It’s the kind of practical innovation that shows Bully Max understands both the dogs using their products and the people buying them.
Beyond Chews: Expanding the Performance Lineup
The Power Chew expansion comes on the heels of Bully Max’s recent launch of a high-protein beef dog food, signaling the brand’s commitment to growing its product categories while staying laser-focused on performance nutrition.
Whether it’s food, treats, or supplements, Bully Max continues to build products specifically engineered for dogs that demand more from their nutrition — and owners who expect results.
Built for Dogs That Work Hard
Bully Max has earned trust among working breed owners by consistently delivering products that support muscle growth, endurance, and overall canine performance. The new Power Chew flavors give those owners more options to reward their dogs while maintaining the nutritional standards their animals need.
From police K9s to ranch dogs to athletic breeds that thrive on activity, these chews are designed for dogs whose lifestyle requires more than basic nutrition.
Ready to power up your dog’s performance? Check out the full Power Chew collection at shop.bullymax.com/collections/dog-treats or learn more about Bully Max’s complete line at bullymax.com.
About Bully Max
Bully Max is a Pittsburgh-based leader in high-performance canine nutrition, trusted by active and working breed owners worldwide. The brand specializes in protein-rich, performance-driven products designed to support strength, endurance, and overall health in dogs with demanding lifestyles.
Media Contact:
Lea Kinneman
Bully Max®
412-266-8136
Lea@bullymax.com
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
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