Thanksgiving has a way of leaving the entire family feeling stuffed and sluggish, but if your dog or cat is also experiencing these signs (or others, such as vomiting or diarrhea) this holiday season, don’t ignore it. Indulging in a rich, fatty meal can result in much more than an upset stomach for pets—it can cause a painful and serious condition known as pancreatitis.

The effects of aging tend to sneak up on all of us—even our pets—but because they happen so gradually, they can be easy to miss. If your dog is starting to bump into objects around the house or your cat isn’t spending as much time in her favorite lofty perch, a few environmental changes may be in order.

While veterinarians play a key role in keeping pets healthy, they can’t do it alone (just ask them!).

Veterinary technicians are the lifeblood of any animal hospital—and that’s why the third week of October, known as National Veterinary Technician Week, is dedicated to celebrating them and everything they do for pets and the people who love them.

Here are just a few reasons we owe technicians a debt of gratitude:

From vampurrs to dogosaurs, there are few things as irresistible as a pet dressed up for Halloween. Make sure your pet’s costume is as safe as it is spooky with these tips.

Find the right fit.

Make sure your pet’s costume fits properly and comfortably. One that is too tight could restrict your pet’s breathing or movement, while a too-loose ensemble could cause your pet to trip or become tangled. Keep it light—some costumes may be too heavy for your pet or cause him to overheat. In addition, your pet’s costume should never cover his eyes, ears, nose, or mouth.

As veterinarians, we often wish we could just ask our patients to tell us where it hurts. Unfortunately, evaluating sick pets is much more complicated, which is why blood work is such a valuable diagnostic tool.

Routine blood testing can help determine causes of illness, verify organ health prior to anesthetized medical treatments, and aid in the general maintenance of healthy pets.

One popular myth about cats is they’re happiest having the freedom to go outside. This is far from the truth. There are many cats who are born and raised indoors who have no interest in going outside and would panic if they found themselves on the wrong side of the door.