Safety Tips

If you’re looking to save on veterinary costs and help keep your beloved pets safe and healthy, we’ve put together some helpful safety tips just for you!

Street Smarts

There’s no such thing as a truly “street smart” dog. No matter how well-behaved or experienced your dog may seem, streets are unpredictable and dangerous.
If a dog has access to the road, it’s only a matter of time before something tragic happens, whether it’s a car accident or another hazard.
We’ve seen too many heartbroken pet parents grieving over something they thought would never happen.
Please don’t take the chance.
Keep your dog safe, keep them out of the street!


We always recommend keeping your cat indoors whenever possible. While some cats are accustomed to spending time outside, it’s important to remember that most of the serious injuries and illnesses we see in cats happen when they’re outdoors. Things like bite wounds, dog attacks, car accidents, and even pellet gun injuries.
We understand that every cat and home is different, but if you want to minimize risk and keep your feline friend safe and healthy, the safest place for them is inside your home.

It's The Leash We Can Do

Letting your dog run and play is important for their happiness and health, but safety should always come first.
We’re not saying dogs should never enjoy off-leash time, but it’s essential to choose the right place and time for it.
Unleashed dogs can easily run into trouble — through brush or barbed wire, or pick up injuries like grass awns in their ears and cuts on their legs. Interactions with other dogs can also turn unexpectedly tense, especially when multiple dogs are involved. Even friendly dogs can behave differently in a group or "pack" setting, ignoring commands and sometimes acting aggressively toward smaller animals.
Yes, these things really do happen. That’s why we encourage you to always assess your surroundings carefully before letting your dog off leash.
A little caution goes a long way in keeping your pet and others safe.

Safe Travels

We strongly recommend not allowing your dog to ride loose in the back of a pickup truck. Even dogs that “never jump out” can make unpredictable decisions, sometimes with painful and costly consequences. Injuries like broken legs or torn ligaments are common, and orthopedic surgery can be expensive and not always fully effective.
We understand that in ranching or rural life, having dogs ride in the back may be part of the routine. Restraining them might not always feel practical especially with multiple muddy, hard-working dogs. But the risks are real, and many states now have laws requiring dogs riding in truck beds to be properly restrained, such as with cross-ties or secured crates.
Your dog’s safety is worth the extra effort. A few precautions can prevent a tragedy and help keep your working companion safe on the road.

Keep Curious Noses Out of Garbage

Dogs and cats are naturally curious and that curiosity can sometimes lead them into trouble. While cats tend to be more selective eaters, both dogs and cats can discover tempting “treats” in the garbage or around the house that pose serious risks to their health.
Spoiled food, discarded medications, and even spilled antifreeze can all be extremely dangerous. Just one dose of medication meant for a human, even something as common as heart pills, can be life-threatening to a small pet. And antifreeze, which has a sweet taste pets are drawn to, can cause fatal kidney failure even in tiny amounts.
“Garbage can poisoning” can lead to severe vomiting, diarrhea, and emergency veterinary care. To keep your furry family members safe, always secure trash bins, store medications out of reach, and clean up any chemical spills right away.
A few simple precautions can prevent heartbreak and help your pet live a longer, healthier life.

Hidden Hazards Outside

We see it all too often lawn edging, sprinkler heads, metal stakes, and barbed wire causing painful and sometimes serious injuries to pets. From small cuts to deep lacerations that damage nerves, tendons, or major blood vessels, these accidents can lead to long-term complications or even permanent damage.
While we’re always here to help with treatment, prevention is the best medicine. Take a few minutes to inspect your yard or outdoor areas where your pet plays. Removing or securing common hazards can make a big difference.
Consider using pet-safe alternatives like concrete lawn edging or protective capping materials available at most home improvement stores.
A little precaution goes a long way in keeping your pet happy, healthy, and out of the ER!