So, you’re heading out of town for the holidays. The flights are booked, bags are packed, and you’ve arranged for a trusted professional to care for your dog or cat while you’re away.

You’re prepared—but is your pet sitter? Here you’ll find a list of the eight most important things your pet sitter needs to know before you hit the road. Make sure you check it twice!

The holiday season is a time of giving and joy for many families. However, for pets, there are some dangers that come along with the holiday festivities. During this season, it is important to keep in mind some of the hazards for pets while still enjoying the holidays together.

Pets are attracted to bright lights much in the same way kids are. Low-hanging ornaments, tinsel, and twinkling Christmas lights all pose a threat to pets. Here are some things to remember regarding decorations this holiday season.

It’s a fact: pets are expensive. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), it is estimated that pet owners will spend $72 billion on their pets in 2018. That number includes expenses such as food, medication, supplies, and veterinary care—and if your pet is insured, you could get a significant portion of those out-of-pocket costs covered.

Preparing your home for your new furry arrival is an exciting time. Whether you’re a first-time pet parent or an old hand, it’s always a mix of emotions. Will everything go smoothly? Will they be safe and happy? One way you can protect your new charge is by pet-proofing your home.

Frankly, there are so many potential hazards, ranging from sugar-free gum to antifreeze, that it’s worth reviewing your home periodically, even if you’re used to living with pets.

You don’t have to be a Scout to know that being prepared for an emergency is a smart idea. After all, you probably have bandages, topical ointments, and other items for human first aid needs. Why not prepare something similar for your pets?

April showers bring May flowers…and with them, bees.

Just like humans, pets can have severe or even life-threatening reactions to bee stings. Unfortunately, our furry friends are also at greater risk for stings due to their curious and playful nature.

Because pets often like to chase, swat, or bite at bees and other flying insects, they are most likely to be stung in the mouth or on the muzzle, nose, face, or paws. It is also common for dogs to accidentally step on a bee while out on a walk.

Is your home hazard-free? For pets, it may not be as safe as you think. National Poison Prevention Week is the perfect time for pet owners to educate themselves about these potential dangers, including common household products and plants.

Dogs and cats are curious, checking out their environments with direct contact and taste. This is why you should be diligent in preventing poisoning in your best pet pals. Here’s what to watch out for, plus further information about treatment for pet poisoning:

Do you know the truth behind these pet poison myths?

Myth #1: It is safe to use human toothpaste on my dog’s teeth.

True or false? FALSE.

Many human toothpastes contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that causes a rapid drop in blood sugar and liver failure in dogs. Xylitol is also commonly found in sugar-free gum and candy, as well as certain medications and nasal sprays.