Archives for August 2026

This month on Aug 1st is DOGust! The universal birthday for shelter and

rescue dogs whose actual birthdates are unknown, so today is a wondeRUFFul

opportunity to celebrate every rescue dog and the second chances they receive through

adoption.

Ways to celebrate:

• Treat your dog to an extra walk or special toy.
• Donate supplies to a local shelter.
• Volunteer your time.
• Consider fostering or adopting.
• Learn pet first aid so you are prepared to protect your best friend.

Every rescued dog deserves not only love—but a family prepared to keep them safe.

❤️ Happy Birthday to every shelter dog! 

Itchy Skin

Is your pet scratching more than usual? August is Itchy Pet Awareness

Month, making it the perfect time to pay attention to your pets skin’s and coat.

Excessive scratching, licking, chewing, or rubbing may be signs of:

✔ Allergies

✔ Fleas or mites

✔ Skin infections

✔ Dry skin

✔ Food sensitivities

Don’t ignore persistent itching—it can quickly lead to painful skin infections and hot

spots. Regular grooming, parasite prevention, quality nutrition, and veterinary care all

help keep skin healthy.

Scratching is a symptom—not a diagnosis. If the itching continues, schedule

veterinary examination.

Heat

If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws! Summer heat doesn’t

just affect people—it can quickly become dangerous for pets.

Protect your furry family members by:

• Walking early morning or after sunset
• Testing pavement with the back of your hand for 7 seconds
• Providing plenty of fresh water
• Taking frequent shade breaks
• Never leaving pets in parked vehicles—even with windows cracked

Watch for signs of heat stress:

⚠ Excessive panting

⚠ Weakness

⚠ Bright red gums

⚠ Vomiting

⚠ Collapse

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. When in doubt, cool first with cool (not ice-cold)

water and head to your veterinarian immediately. 

Snake Safety

While not a problem right here without little garter snakes, if you travel… Warm weather means snakes are active! Whether hiking, camping, or simply enjoying the outdoors, pets can accidentally encounter snakes.

Help reduce the risk:

• Keep dogs leashed on trails.
• Stay on marked paths.
• Avoid tall grass and rock piles.
• Keep your yard trimmed and free of debris.
• Watch where curious noses investigate.

If your pet is bitten:

❌ Don’t cut the wound.

❌ Don’t try to suck out venom.

❌ Don’t apply a tourniquet.

❌ Don’t attempt to capture the snake.

✅ Keep your pet as calm and quiet as possible.

✅ Carry them if you can.

✅ Seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

Quick action can save a life.