New Year’s Eve is a night full of celebration, but for pets, the loud noises, flashing lights, and unfamiliar activity can be frightening and even dangerous. Fireworks are one of the leading causes of lost pets during the holidays because the sudden booms can trigger panic, stress, or attempts to escape. Understanding how fireworks affect pets and taking a few simple precautions can help keep your furry friends safe, calm, and secure as you ring in the new year.

How to Prepare Your Pet Before Fireworks Begin

  • Ensure your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are updated
  • Take dogs on a long walk earlier in the day to help reduce evening anxiety
  • Feed pets their dinner a bit earlier to promote calmness
  • Set up a designated safe space with blankets, toys, or a crate
  • Play calming music, white noise, or TV to help drown out fireworks sounds
  • Consider calming aids such as pheromone diffusers, compression wraps, or vet-approved supplements

During the Fireworks

  • Keep pets indoors at all times, preferably in an interior room away from windows
  • Close curtains and blinds to limit visual flashes
  • Turn on background noise like fans or music
  • Stay with your pet if possible to provide comfort and reassurance
  • Avoid scolding them for fearful behavior—fear is a natural response
  • Offer treats or enrichment items like a lick mat to shift their focus

Signs Your Pet Is Overly Stressed

  • Heavy panting, trembling, or excessive pacing
  • Hiding or attempting to escape
  • Whining, barking, or vocalizing
  • Destructive behaviors like chewing or scratching
  • Drooling, vomiting, or sudden accidents inside the home

When to Seek Veterinary Help

  • If your pet injures themselves during a panic episode
  • If anxiety symptoms worsen year after year
  • If your pet stops eating, becomes lethargic, or displays unusual behavior

If your pet struggles with New Year’s Eve fireworks or noise anxiety, we’re here to help keep them safe and comfortable. Call or visit us at CityVet to book your appointment.

The holidays bring plenty of festive foods, but many seasonal favorites can be unsafe for pets. Instead of sharing table scraps, keep your furry companions healthy with pet-safe treat options and simple holiday safety tips.

Holiday Foods to Avoid

Many traditional holiday dishes contain ingredients that can be harmful, even in small amounts, so it’s important to know what to keep off your pet’s plate.

  • Turkey skin and cooked bones
  • Stuffing, gravy, and dishes with onions or garlic
  • Chocolate, baked goods, and sugar-free candies (xylitol)
  • Grapes, raisins, and cranberry mixes
  • Yeast dough and heavily seasoned foods
  • Nutmeg and holiday spices

Healthy Treat Tips

Smart snacking habits can help prevent upset stomachs and keep pets feeling their best throughout the holidays.

  • Keep treats to less than 10 percent of daily calories
  • Avoid introducing new foods during busy gatherings
  • Start with small portions to watch for sensitivities
  • Maintain normal feeding routines to reduce begging
  • Store pet treats separately to avoid mix-ups

Holiday Hosting Tips for Pet Safety

With guests, food, and holiday chaos, a few simple precautions can help keep your pets safe and stress-free.

  • Use secure trash cans to keep pets out of scraps
  • Remind guests not to feed pets from their plates
  • Provide a quiet, food-free space for pets
  • Keep counters and tables clear of unattended dishes
  • Have pet-safe treats ready so they don’t feel left out

Signs Your Pet May Need a Vet

Know the early warning signs of trouble so you can act quickly if your pet gets into something they shouldn’t.

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Sudden lethargy or restlessness
  • Pale gums or excessive thirst
  • Unusual behavior or difficulty standing
  • Any known ingestion of toxic foods

Safe Holiday Treat Alternatives

If you plan to share a little human food with your pet this season, remember that moderation is key and stick to simple, pet-safe options.

  • Small pieces of plain, cooked turkey (boneless and unseasoned)
  • Pet-safe veggies like carrots, green beans, pumpkin, and sweet potato
  • Frozen treats made with plain yogurt and pumpkin or xylitol-free peanut butter
  • Holiday-themed treats made specifically for pets
  • Simple homemade pet biscuits with safe ingredients

For an extra-special homemade treat, try this easy recipe straight from the CityVet recipe book:

Party Mix for Pups
Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked chicken (chopped)
  • ½ cup cooked sweet potatoes (diced)
  • ½ cup cooked green beans (chopped)

Instructions:

  • Combine the chopped chicken, sweet potatoes, and green beans in a bowl.
  • Serve small portions as a festive, pet-safe holiday party treat.

Keep your holidays safe and joyful by choosing smart, pet-friendly treat options. If your pet eats something they shouldn’t, or you want to make sure they’re healthy heading into the new year, call or visit us at CityVet to book your appointment.

As temperatures drop, it’s important to understand how cold weather affects your pets. While some dogs tolerate the cold better than others, all pets can be at risk for frostbite, hypothermia, and other weather-related dangers. Knowing when it’s safe to head outside and when to stay indoors can protect your pet’s health all winter long.

Safe Temperature Guidelines for Dogs

A quick temperature check before walks can help you make the safest choice for your pet.

  • 50-75 degrees: Safe for most dogs
  • 39 to 49 degrees: Use caution, especially for small or short-haired breeds; consider a warm coat
  • 32 to 38 degrees: Increased risk of cold exposure for small breeds, puppies, seniors, or dogs with thin fur; limit time outdoors
  • Under 21 degrees: Too cold for most dogs; serious risk of frostbite and hypothermia; avoid prolonged exposure

Cold Weather Risks to Watch For

Understanding these risks helps you stay alert and prevent cold-weather emergencies before they happen.

  • Frostbite on ears, paws, and tails
  • Hypothermia caused by prolonged exposure to cold temperatures
  • Dry, cracked paws from ice, snow, and rough surfaces
  • Toxicity from ice melt or antifreeze products
  • Joint stiffness or discomfort in senior pets

Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe in Cold Weather

Small daily precautions can make a big difference in keeping your pet warm and healthy throughout winter.

  • Limit outdoor time to bathroom breaks when temperatures drop, especially for vulnerable pets
  • Dress your pet in a coat or sweater if they have thin fur or are sensitive to cold
  • Use booties or pet-safe balms to protect paws
  • Always dry your pet completely after being outside in snow or rain
  • Keep pets away from antifreeze, which is highly toxic
  • Provide warm, draft-free sleeping areas indoors
  • Never leave pets outside overnight in freezing temperatures

When to Seek Veterinary Care

If you notice any of these symptoms, contacting your veterinarian right away can help prevent serious complications.

  • Persistent shivering
  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Pale or discolored paws, ears, or tail
  • Difficulty walking due to cold exposure
  • Signs of pain, limping, or cracked paw pads

If you’re unsure whether your pet is safe in cold weather or need guidance on winter care, our team is here to help. If you suspect your pet has been exposed for too long in cold weather or is experiencing signs of hypothermia, schedule a visit with your nearest CityVet location. Call or visit us at CityVet to book your appointment.

If your family welcomed a new puppy or kitten over the holidays, the new year is the perfect time to schedule their very first veterinary visit. A pet’s first checkup is an important milestone that helps set the stage for a lifetime of good health. Whether your new companion is tiny and energetic or a bit shy and still settling in, preparing for that initial appointment can make the experience smoother, calmer, and more positive for both of you.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

  • Any previous medical records or adoption paperwork
  • A list of questions or concerns about your pet’s health or behavior
  • A fresh stool sample for parasite testing (if requested)
  • Your pet’s current diet, treat, and medication list
  • A secure carrier for cats and small pets, or a properly fitted leash and harness for dogs

During the Visit: What to Expect

  • A full nose-to-tail physical examination
  • Recommended vaccinations based on age, lifestyle, and environment
  • A discussion about parasite prevention, nutrition, behavior, and dental care
  • Guidance on appropriate exercise, socialization, and training
  • Time to ask questions and address any concerns you may have

Tips for Reducing Stress at the Clinic

  • Stay calm – your pet can sense your emotions
  • Use calming sprays, pheromone wipes, or treats while waiting
  • Keep cats and small pets inside their carrier until inside the exam room
  • Reward your pet with praise and treats throughout the visit
  • Let the veterinary team know if your pet is fearful so they can adjust handling

After the Appointment

  • Follow your vet’s recommendations for diet, vaccines, and medications
  • Schedule follow-up booster shots or wellness visits as directed
  • Continue positive reinforcement around carriers, leashes, and handling
  • Monitor your pet for any unusual symptoms after vaccinations and contact your vet if needed
  • Bring your dogs by for pets and treats on days when nothing is going to happen so they associate the clinic with good things

When to Make the First Appointment

  • Puppies and kittens: as early as 6-8 weeks old
  • Newly adopted adult pets: within the first week of bringing them home
  • Pets showing signs of illness or behavioral changes: as soon as possible

Start the new year with confidence by getting your pet on the right health track. Call or visit us at CityVet to book your appointment.

The holidays are one of the busiest travel seasons of the year, and many pet owners choose to bring their furry companions along for the adventure. While traveling with pets can make the season even more special, it also introduces unique challenges, from managing stress to ensuring safety in unfamiliar environments. With the right preparation and precautions, you can help your pet stay comfortable, calm, and healthy throughout the journey.

Holiday Travel Risks for Pets

  • Changes in routine, long car rides, and crowded environments can cause stress and anxiety
  • Exposure to unfamiliar foods, décor, or plants can lead to accidental ingestion
  • Airports, hotels, and rest stops may introduce new germs or unsafe conditions
  • Weather-related dangers include frostbite, hypothermia, and irritated paw pads
  • Motion sickness is common in both dogs and cats during extended travel

Preparing Your Pet for a Trip

  • Schedule a pre-travel veterinary exam to ensure vaccines and preventatives are current
  • Ask your veterinarian about calming aids or motion-sickness solutions
  • Pack a “pet essentials kit” with food, bowls, medication, toys, waste bags, grooming supplies, and vet records
  • Update ID tags and microchip information
  • Try shorter practice drives ahead of a long road trip

Safe Car Travel Tips

  • Use a crash-tested pet carrier, crate, or harness to prevent injury
  • Keep pets out of front seats and never allow them to hang their head out the window
  • Make frequent stops for bathroom breaks and water
  • Never leave pets unattended in a vehicle
  • Bring familiar blankets or toys for comfort

Air Travel Tips

  • Review airline rules and book early
  • Choose direct flights when possible
  • Use an airline-approved, well-ventilated carrier
  • Clearly label the carrier with your contact information
  • Avoid sedation unless recommended by your veterinarian

Pet-Friendly Lodging Tips

  • Research pet-friendly hotels, rentals, or family accommodations
  • Bring a travel bed or crate to create a familiar space
  • Keep pets leashed and supervised in unfamiliar environments
  • Protect hotel furniture with blankets or covers if needed

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If you’re traveling with your pet this holiday season, make sure they’re healthy and prepared for the trip. Call or visit us at CityVet to book your appointment.

The holidays are a time for family, food, and festive cheer, but not all holiday treats are safe for our pets. From rich foods to tempting table scraps, many traditional dishes can cause serious health issues for cats and dogs. At CityVet, we want to help you celebrate safely with a few simple reminders and pet-friendly tips.

Holiday Foods to Avoid

Many popular holiday foods can be dangerous, even in small amounts. Avoid feeding your pets:

  • Bones: Cooked turkey or ham bones can splinter and cause choking or intestinal injury.
  • Onions, garlic, and leeks: Found in gravies and stuffings, these can damage red blood cells and cause anemia.
  • Fatty foods: Rich meats, buttery sides, and gravy can trigger pancreatitis.
  • Chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol: All are toxic to pets and can lead to vomiting, seizures, or worse.
  • Macadamia nuts, grapes, and raisins: Even small amounts can cause serious illness.
  • Spices like nutmeg: Often in desserts, nutmeg can cause tremors or seizures.

Safe Alternatives

Want to include your pet in the holiday meal? Offer small portions of plain, unseasoned foods such as:

  • Cooked turkey breast or chicken (no bones or skin)
  • Steamed carrots, green beans, or peas
  • Plain pumpkin or sweet potato (no sugar or butter)

Always serve these foods in moderation, and stick to your pet’s regular diet as much as possible to avoid digestive upset.

Holiday Safety Tips

  • Keep food out of reach: Don’t leave plates or trash unattended where pets can sneak a bite.
  • Avoid table feeding: Even a small taste from your plate could contain harmful ingredients.
  • Create a pet-safe zone: Give your pet a quiet space away from guests, noise, and food temptations.
  • Watch for warning signs: If your pet shows vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, or lethargy, contact your veterinarian right away.

If your pet(s) eat something they shouldn’t, or you simply want to make sure they’re healthy going into the new year, schedule a checkup with your nearest CityVet location. Call or visit us at CityVet to book your appointment.

As the seasons shift, so do your pet’s health needs. From allergies in the spring to dry skin in the winter, each season brings unique challenges for your furry family member. At CityVet, we want to help you stay ahead of these changes so your pet can feel their best all year long.

Common Seasonal Health Concerns

  • Allergies: Pollen, grass, mold, and dust can cause sneezing, itching, and watery eyes.
  • Temperature Sensitivity: Pets can overheat in the summer or get too cold in winter.
  • Parasites: Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes thrive in warmer months and can linger into fall.
  • Dry Skin and Shedding: Seasonal temperature and humidity changes can affect your pet’s coat and skin health.
  • Joint Discomfort: Cold weather may worsen stiffness, especially in older pets or those with arthritis.

How to Protect Your Pet Year-Round

  • Stay on Preventatives: Keep your pet on year-round flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives; parasites can survive longer than you think.
  • Adjust Diet as Needed: Seasonal activity changes may mean adjusting food portions to maintain a healthy weight.
  • Groom Regularly: Brushing removes loose fur and helps prevent matting and dry skin during seasonal shedding.
  • Hydrate and Moisturize: Ensure your pet always has fresh water, and consider moisturizing shampoos during dry months.
  • Exercise Smartly: Avoid midday heat in summer and icy surfaces in winter. Early morning or late evening walks are ideal.
  • Monitor for Allergies: If your pet licks or scratches excessively, talk to your vet about allergy testing or medication options.
  • Create Comfortable Spaces: Use cooling mats in summer or cozy blankets in winter to help regulate body temperature.

When to Visit the Vet

  • Persistent itching, sneezing, or ear infections
  • Limping or stiffness during colder months
  • Changes in appetite, weight, or coat condition
  • Signs of lethargy or discomfort after seasonal transitions

A quick checkup can prevent minor seasonal issues from becoming major health concerns. Call or visit us at CityVet to book your appointment.

As pet owners, we know our furry friends can’t tell us when something’s wrong. That’s why it’s important to recognize when their symptoms may signal a serious health issue. Acting quickly can make all the difference in protecting your pet’s health and well-being. Here are five warning signs that mean it’s time to call your veterinarian right away.

1. Sudden Changes in Eating or Drinking Habits

  • Skipping meals occasionally may not be alarming, but refusing to eat or drink for more than 24 hours can indicate an underlying illness.
  • Excessive drinking or urination may also signal diabetes, kidney disease, or hormonal imbalances.

2. Difficulty Breathing or Coughing

  • Labored breathing, persistent coughing, or wheezing can be signs of respiratory infection, heart disease, or an allergic reaction.
  • Rapid breathing or open-mouth breathing in cats is especially concerning and should be treated as an emergency.

3. Vomiting, Diarrhea, or Signs of Poisoning

  • Occasional digestive upset can happen, but repeated vomiting, diarrhea, or blood in stool needs immediate attention.
  • If your pet may have ingested toxins like chocolate, xylitol, medication, or plants, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

4. Lethargy, Weakness, or Collapse

  • If your pet suddenly becomes weak, disoriented, or unwilling to move, it could point to infection, internal bleeding, or organ failure.
  • Collapse or fainting is always an emergency. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic right away.

5. Visible Pain, Injury, or Behavioral Changes

  • Limping, crying out, or hiding could mean your pet is in pain from injury or illness.
  • Changes in behavior, such as aggression, confusion, or withdrawal, may also indicate your pet isn’t feeling well.

When in Doubt, Don’t Wait
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s best to have your pet evaluated as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and ensure your pet receives the care they need to recover quickly.

Visit CityVet today to schedule an appointment or learn more.

As our pets age, their needs change but their love for us never does. November is Senior Pet Health Month, a reminder to give our older companions the special attention they deserve. With the right care, senior pets can stay happy, healthy, and comfortable for years to come.

Signs Your Pet May Be Entering Their Senior Years

  • Most dogs and cats are considered seniors around age seven
  • Common signs of aging include:
    • Slower movement or stiffness
    • Changes in appetite or weight
    • Cloudy eyes or decreased vision
    • Increased thirst or urination
    • Behavioral changes such as confusion or restlessness

Key Areas of Senior Pet Health

  • Nutrition & Weight Management: Senior pets benefit from age-appropriate diets that support joint health, digestion, and immune function. Ask your vet about the best food to maintain a healthy weight.
  • Regular Checkups & Preventive Care: Bi-annual wellness exams help detect arthritis, diabetes, kidney disease, or other age-related conditions early. Your CityVet veterinarian may recommend bloodwork or additional screenings.
  • Dental Health: Dental disease is common in older pets. Regular brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings can prevent pain and infection.
  • Mobility & Joint Support: Look for signs of arthritis such as limping or difficulty climbing stairs. Supplements, low-impact exercise, and comfortable bedding can help ease discomfort.
  • Mental Stimulation & Comfort: Keep your pet’s mind sharp with gentle activity, interactive toys, and a consistent routine. Provide a cozy, quiet space for rest and relaxation.

Helping Your Senior Pet Thrive

Caring for an older pet is about more than managing their health, it’s about helping them enjoy every day. Show them patience, keep them active, and make time for the moments that matter most.

If your pet is entering their golden years, schedule a senior wellness exam today. Visit CityVet today to learn more.

Halloween is a time of excitement filled with costumes, candy, and community celebrations. While families enjoy the festivities, the holiday can also bring hidden dangers for pets. From unfamiliar sights and sounds to tempting treats, the season can be stressful or even hazardous. These tips will help keep pets safe while the fun unfolds.

Candy and Chocolate

  • Chocolate (especially dark or baking) can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death in pets.
  • Xylitol (found in sugar-free candy and gum) can trigger rapid drops in blood sugar and liver failure in dogs.
  • What to do if your pet eats candy:
    • Remove remaining candy from reach
    • Call your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately
    • Note the type of candy, how much was eaten, and your pet’s weight

Costumes and Decorations

  • Only use costumes that fit comfortably and don’t restrict breathing, vision, or movement
  • Avoid costumes with dangling parts that can be chewed or swallowed
  • Keep pets away from decorations like glow sticks, wires, candles, and fake spider webs

Stranger Danger

  • Trick-or-treaters, costumes, and constant doorbell noise can overwhelm pets
  • Create a quiet, secure space for your pet with toys, a bed, or calming music
  • Always make sure collars and ID tags are up to date in case your pet slips out

Trick-or-Treat Walks

  • Keep dogs leashed and close to you at all times
  • Use reflective gear for visibility at night
  • Prevent your pet from picking up dropped candy or wrappers

General Safety

  • Store candy bowls and treat bags out of reach
  • Monitor pets closely around pumpkins and seasonal plants (moldy pumpkins and decorative corn can cause stomach upset)
  • Contact your veterinarian right away if your pet shows signs of poisoning (vomiting, drooling, lethargy, tremors, seizures)

Keep Halloween safe, fun, and stress-free for the whole family. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, schedule an appointment with your local CityVet today. Call or visit us at CityVet to book your appointment.