December is Winter Weather Safety Month, making it the perfect time to remind pet owners of the dangers that come with the cold winter months. From hypothermia risk and protecting sensitive paws to leashing your dog and ensuring adequate shelter for outdoor cats, there are many precautions to take to ensure your pets continue living their best lives straight through this cold, snowy season.

New Year’s Eve can be a tough time for pets. Between the loud fireworks and guests, even the most social pets can feel a little intimidated. One danger you may not have considered is alcohol. In the midst of the festivities, your curious dog or cat may help themselves to someone’s glass and it can make them sick.

Hanukkah, or The Festival of Lights, is a time for reflection and family. It’s also a time for foods, gifts, and traditional decorations, some of which can be harmful to your pets.

Take the traditional menorah, for example. Wagging tails near lit candles are not a good mix, so make sure it and other candles are safely out of reach.

Cellophane wrappers, lollipop sticks, plastic spider rings, candy, and all the assorted trappings of Halloween can pose a danger to curious pets.

How do I know when to take my pet to the vet? This is a good question. And it is a rather common question. Because too many times, pet owners worry that they waited too long or brought their pet to see the doctor too soon, and somehow they will be at fault if Fluffy has any issues.

Glaucoma is rare in cats, though when it occurs, it’s very painful and can lead to blindness. It can’t be cured, though sometimes it can be treated.

Healthy eyes have a balance of fluid and drainage. In cats with glaucoma, the fluid stops draining and builds up behind the eye, causing a lot of pressure. Sometimes the eyes bulge. Glaucoma also damages the optic nerve.

If your dog or cat had an accident, would you know how to stabilize them before transporting them to the vet or to an emergency veterinary care center?

Most people think of bleach or rat poison when they think of household toxins. If that’s you, you’re right. Yet, there are many other less obvious items that could pose a hazard.

Take sugar-free gum for instance. Did you know that it contains xylitol, which can cause liver failure in your dog? The popular sugar substitute is also in certain brands of toothpaste and sweetener packets for coffee and tea. Yet, it can be deadly to your dog.