PET SAFETY
Seasonal risks for dogs and cats · Hot cars · Marijuana/THC toxicity
Hot Cars Kill Pets
Never leave a pet in a parked car — even on a mild day.
On a 70°F (21°C) day, the inside of a parked car can reach 99°F (37°C) in 20 minutes. On a 90°F (32°C) day, it can exceed 110°F (43°C) in just 10 minutes. Cracking the windows makes almost no difference.
99°F
70°F day → 20 min
110°F+
90°F day → 10 min
~No effect
Windows cracked
Signs of Heatstroke
- •Heavy panting, drooling, or glazed eyes
- •Vomiting or diarrhea
- •Lethargy, staggering, or collapse
- •Bright red or pale gums
If a pet is overheating: move to shade/AC immediately, apply cool (not cold) water to chest and paws, and call a vet right away. Heatstroke can be fatal within minutes.
Marijuana / THC Toxicity
Marijuana (THC) is toxic to dogs — common sources and symptoms below.
Marijuana (THC) is toxic to dogs. Common sources include discarded joints, edibles, and secondhand smoke. Symptoms include wobbliness, lethargy, dribbling urine, low heart rate, and in severe cases, seizures or coma. If you suspect your pet ingested marijuana, contact a vet or pet poison hotline immediately — most dogs recover with prompt care, but it can be life-threatening, especially with edibles containing chocolate or xylitol.
Symptoms to Watch For
- •Wobbliness or lack of coordination
- •Lethargy or unresponsiveness
- •Dribbling urine
- •Low heart rate
- •Seizures or coma (severe cases)
Suspected ingestion? Call your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline (e.g. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435) immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen.
Toxic Foods & Plants
Common foods and houseplants that are dangerous — even fatal — to dogs and cats.
Toxic Foods
- Chocolate — Contains theobromine, toxic to dogs especially.
- Grapes & raisins — Can cause sudden kidney failure.
- Xylitol (sugar-free gum, candy, some peanut butter) — Causes rapid blood sugar drop and liver damage.
- Onions & garlic — Damage red blood cells, toxic in all forms (raw, cooked, powdered).
- Alcohol — Even small amounts can be dangerous.
- Macadamia nuts — Cause weakness, tremors in dogs.
- Avocado — Toxic in large amounts, especially for birds.
- Caffeine — Similar effects to chocolate toxicity.
Toxic Houseplants
- Lilies — Especially dangerous to cats — can cause fatal kidney failure.
- Sago palm — Highly toxic; can cause liver failure.
- Tulips — Bulbs are most toxic; can cause vomiting and drooling.
- Azaleas — Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart issues.
If your pet ingests any of these, contact a vet or pet poison hotline immediately — don't wait for symptoms to appear.
Educational guidance only — not a substitute for veterinary care.