Labor Day Weekend marks the unofficial end of summer, and it’s the perfect time to make a few more memories before the onset of autumn. Whether you are spending the holiday at home, hanging out with friends and family, or squeezing in a last-minute vacation, it’s crucial to keep your pet’s safety in mind. Like any holiday, Labor Day poses some risks to your furry friend. Here are a few tips for enjoying a safe and happy holiday weekend with your dog or cat.

Launched in 2009 by The American Kennel Club and ADT Security Services, National Pet Fire Safety Day recognizes the estimated 500,000 pets affected annually by fires in the home. Held annually on July 15, this day is set aside to increase awareness and educate pet owners about fire risks and preventative measures to ensure your pet’s safety.

Dog water safety is top of mind for dog owners in the warmer months, as families venture out to lakes and oceans or enjoy time in their own pools. Of course, we all want our dogs to come along for these aquatic adventures. Still, there’s a certain amount of anxiety that comes with summer water activities – especially if you’ll be distracted by young children or a large group of people.

Dogs gravitate towards treats just as we gravitate towards the dessert table. Much like humans, dogs are at risk of becoming overweight or obese at some point in their lives. It’s estimated that nearly 56% of dogs are overweight, which increases the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, puts unnecessary strain on their bones and organs, and decreases their overall life expectancy. As veterinarians who are also dog owners, we know those extra rolls are ripe for belly rubs, but we also want your dog to be at peak health every time we see them for their wellness visits.

It’s human instinct to protect our most valued possessions. We lock our homes when we’re away, set our car alarms at the shopping mall, keep our wallets secure and our kids glued to our sides. As veterinarians, we know that dogs are among an owner’s most valued possessions (nay, family members!), and they’re fiercely protective of them when it comes to the neighbor’s aggressive dog or lurking predatory animals. However, dog owners often fail to realize that their fellow humans are also a threat.

You’re taking the dog out on a hike, and he suddenly veers off the path to explore something that caught his eye—now, you and your precious pup are face to face with a rattlesnake. It’s a scary circumstance to find yourself in, but one that does indeed happen and one that dog owners don’t often think about. Dogs are curious (and, let’s face it, a bit goofy) creatures! Snakes pose a serious threat to your dog, especially during Spring when warmer weather arrives, and snakes seek out the sun for warmth after a long, cold winter.

Billions of cicadas have spent the last 17 years underground! In fact, the last time they emerged was 2004, when Facebook was founded, and your high schooler was just a baby.

As you fire up the woodstove, gas up the generators, load up on flashlights and firewood, and other winter storm preparation, remember that your pet needs special preventive care and prep, too. Follow these six tips to keep your pet safe and warm in the face of an upcoming storm.