When spring and summer roll around, people with allergies know to stock up on antihistamine and allergy relief products for when they head outside and face pollen, ragweed and other allergens. But while you know to prepare for allergy season since you go outside, you may forget that your furry friends indoors might still be affected.

Has a furry guest been paying you a visit? Perhaps you’ve been gardening in the backyard and spotted a cat in the shadows, looking on with curious eyes. Although stray cats are elusive, you’ll see them around more often if you provide a nice home.

Summer is finally here, which means it’s time for a dip in the pool. It’s tempting to jump right in without a second thought. But as you enjoy the refreshing water with your dog, concerns might be floating at the back of your mind. You’re probably wondering: Is it safe for my dog to swim in all these pool chemicals?

If you’re going to let your cat partake in the great outdoors, it’s important to recognize the greater responsibilities that come with it. In letting them out of the house—especially to roam free—you’re opening them up to a wave of new concerns. Some you have no control over; others, like protecting them against parasites, are your responsibility.

As the weather starts to heat up and your family begins making plans to spend more time outdoors, practicing warm weather safety with your cat will be vital to keeping them happy and playful all summer long. Much like humans, cats that spend too much time in extremely warm environments—whether that is in a particularly hot house, a car or outdoors without the cover of shade—can suffer discomfort or distress from extended heat exposure.  

Summer vegetable gardens are great for providing fresh herbs and veggies for your household. Maintaining them can even be a fun pastime for you and your family. Unfortunately, if you’re a pet owner, vegetable gardens can also be a source of stress or danger.

On warm, summer days, many pet owners like to let their pups take a dive in a nearby body of water to splash around and cool off. Although this can be lots of fun for your furry friend, not all bodies of water are safe for pets to swim in. A number of potential risks await in these water features and could cause your pet harm if you’re not careful.

If you’re planning on making the most of the spring and summer seasons, you’re likely to be outdoors more often than not. While you’re out there, you’ll have to contend with nature’s most abhorrent pest: mosquitoes. These literal bloodsuckers are more than just annoying—they can also be deadly, depending on the diseases they’re carrying. Needless to say, it’s important to protect yourself and your pet from them.

When the sun is shining overhead and the temperature is balmy, you may be itching to get out and take your pup for a walk. But while we wear shoes to protect our feet, we must be mindful that our dogs don’t get the same luxury.