With Fourth of July fireworks approaching, it’s important for us to remember the well-being of our furry friends during the dazzling displays. The loud noises and bright lights can cause anxiety and stress for our pets.

What would you do if your pet became lost? Fences, collars and leashes can fail. Doors and gates can accidently be left open. Pets can get scared or distracted and take off.

Spring and summer bring many wonderful events to the Capital Region such as the Animal Protection Foundation’s Woofstock Music Festival and 5K Walk/Run on June 1 in Collins Park in Scotia.

Spring is in full swing and summer is around the corner. As we spend time playing outside, going on trips and taking extra-long walks, it’s important to consider potential hazards for your pet and ways to keep them safe.

April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, an excellent time to consider whether you are prepared for an injury to your pet.

We all love adorable pet photos. The Animal Protective Foundation’s fourth annual pet calendar photo contest is happening now, with many wonderful entries of dogs, cats, guinea pigs, fish, reptiles and more already submitted. The winning photo will be on the cover of the 2026 Animal Protective Foundation Pet Calendar, with 12 additional category leaders gracing the 12 months, plus a collage featuring all entries.

Warmer weather certainly has us thinking about spending more time outdoors with our pets. However, it’s important to remember that as we become more active outside, so do ticks. When temperatures rise above freezing, tick activity significantly increases.

Having a family pet can bring great joy for children and create wonderful childhood memories. Even better are the developmental benefits for children that come with caring for a pet. Owning a pet, fostering a pet and volunteering for your local animal shelter or rescue are all excellent opportunities to teach our youth.

As the largest public spay/neuter clinic in the Capital Region, we are proud of our efforts to help pet owners responsibly sterilize their pets to lower the overpopulation trends we’re seeing. However, if you look at the area’s shelter and rescue websites, it can be disheartening to see so many animals waiting longer to find their forever homes.