The Fourth of July can be a very scary and dangerous time for family pets. Keep your furry friends safe with these tips.

June 21st is National Dog Party Day, and more pet parents than ever are throwing birthday bashes for their pooch. Before you bust out the treats and toys and let the dogs loose, there are a few things you should consider to create a successful, safe, and fun event!

Summer is a great time to get outdoors with your dog, but you should never leave unprepared. Keep your pup safe at fairs, concerts, BBQs, and other warm weather events with these tips.

• Avoid leaving your pet in a parked car during the warmer months, even on mildly hot days. Remember, it only takes a few minutes to cause serious injury—even with the windows cracked.

It’s no secret that dogs are sociable creatures who are happiest being with others and having something to do. Not to get overly philosophical, but everyone needs a purpose.

Plus, dogs are like toddlers. If you don’t give them a constructive focus, they’ll find ways to entertain themselves, such as pulling all of the stuffing out of each cushion on your new couch, or enjoying four or five shoes -- each from a different pair. Not that we’ve had any experience with such things…

Does your dog love the water? Does he or she have a special toy they will do anything to retrieve? Do they have a strong play drive? If so, then the canine sport of dock diving or dock jumping may be for you.

Any breed, including mixes, and any size of dog can compete as long as they are six months old, healthy, and the love water! Dogs compete for distance, leaping for height and swimming for speed.