CVMA is dedicated to the animal and human bond. Pets give companionship and affection to their owners and rely on their owners to know what to do for them and to do what is right. This CommUNITY section provides caretaking information to best serve you and your pet.
Poison Control
Households are filled with items that could be poisonous to pets. Some risks include human medications (NSAIDs, antidepressants), foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, and xylitol, along with household cleaners and plants. Keep chemicals locked up to keep your pets safe.
- Call your veterinarian.
- Visit a veterinary emergency service.
- Don’t self-medicate pets.
- Know how to provide basic first aid.
- Learn how to perform CPR on your pet.
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Call either the ASPCA poison control at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet poison helpline at (855) 764-7661. NOTE: A fee is associated with both poison controls).
Halloween Pet Safety
Halloween brings hidden hazards for pets, from toxic treats and unsafe decorations to the stress of ringing doorbells. Check out these Halloween pet safety tips. More.
Rescue Pack
Filling Bowls and Bellies for Pets in Need
Rescue Pack is a non-profit organization with a mission to provide pet food and supplies to rescues and residents in need. They work with rescues and in local neighborhoods to provide free pet food. The funds that the rescues save on the food the organization provides can be used for wellness care for the animals in the shelters. Rescue Pack also has pop-up pantries in areas of economic need for food pick up. Alongside the pantries, they sponsor pet vaccination and microchipping clinics.
Rescue Pack wants to keep cats and dogs in their homes avoiding their entering overcrowded shelters.
For more information about the program or if you are a company that has food that is about to expire that could be utilized by pets and their owners, contact Rescue Pack.
Veterinary Care for Cats of Low-Income Seniors
The second year of grant-funded Pets to the Vet is in its second year of an innovative program which helps low-income seniors receive essential veterinary care for their pets where they reside. The Touched by an Angel Sanctuary coordinates and funds mobile veterinary visits at senior residential facilities providing check-ups including a wellness examination, nail trimming, and basic vaccines. This is in recognition of the importance of keeping people and their pets together to preserve the bond. For more information, contact touchedbyananimal.org.
The Human-Pet Deep Bond
A deep, two-way relationship between people and animals helps the health and well-being of both. Humans and pets often release oxytocin, a chemical in the brain linked to love and happiness when they spend time together. Vets focus on this bond to care for both the physical and mental health of the animal and owner.
For humans, the bond Do not leave spaces between the below bullet points
• Lowers stress, anxiety, and blood pressure.
• Lowers the risk of heart disease and helps people heal after a heart attack.
• Gives people unconditional love and support during hard times.
• Helps people stay active
• Helps people feel less lonely
Pets also have a powerful, scientifically proven impact on mental health. In fact, 86% of pet owners report that their animals have a mostly positive impact on their mental well-being, according to data from the American Psychiatric Association (APA). More.
Tips to Minimize Pet Noise Discomfort
Pet owners can help their dogs and cats stay relaxed and unafraid from fireworks, large noises, and crowds. More.
Can Dog Companionship Influence Cancer Survival in Humans? The benefits of animal-assisted therapy to human cancer patients have been widely observed anecdotally, but it’s been harder to demonstrate whether those interactions translate into measurable clinical outcomes. Now, a new study may be confirming that link. More.
Disease Precautions for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Their Companion Animals This reference guide is intended to be a general guide about diseases that outdoor enthusiasts (such as campers, canoers/kayakers, backpackers and hikers) and their companion animals may encounter. More.
Traveling With Pets: Tips for a Pet-Friendly Vacation Are you thinking of traveling with pets? Whatever way you travel, you’ll need to plan ahead for a successful pet-friendly vacation. The following are some tips for driving and flying with dogs and cats — plus a pet first-aid kit to pack for your trip. More.
Dog Travel Safety Taking dogs on the family vacation can make for a great trip with careful planning. Answering some questions can help clients plan carefully and will build a professional/client relationship. More.
Hot Weather Safety Tips We all love spending the long, sunny days of summer outdoors with our furry companions, but it’s important to remember that like any season, summer comes with its hazards. To make sure you’re prepared for whatever comes your way this summer, check out this list of summer safety tips from experts at ASPCA Poison Control. More.
Heat Safety Tips for Pet Owners AAHA recommendations for heat safety, including tips that go beyond the basics. More.
Helpful Information to Care for “Other” Small Pets
Information to care for small pets other than dogs and cats, i.e. rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, birds, is available here. Stay educated to be the best owner possible. For more information, contact a CVMA member Veterinarian.