April Dog Holidays

April is here! We've got through April Fools (hopefully unscathed), and now have the rest of the month ahead of us. And April is definitely a month to celebrate for dogs! Here are some of the canine holidays that you can celebrate in April.

National Heartworm Awareness Month

Heartworm is common disease in canines. Unfortunately, it can also be a serious disease. National Heartworm Awareness Month is about spreading awareness of the prevalence of heartworm and how to prevent it. One way you can help prevent heartworm is by giving your dog prevention medication when they're a puppy. Ask your vet about the best time to give them this medication. 

National Pet First Aid Awareness Month

This holiday was founded by the American Red Cross to bring about awareness of pet first aid. Even though somebody might be first-aid certified, that doesn't mean they can apply this same knowledge to animals. Pet first aid is very different than first aid for humans, and this is important to know if you're trying to help an animal. The American Red Cross is a great resource for information about pet first aid. 

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month

There's never a bad time to rise awareness about animal cruelty, but the month of April is devoted to it. Celebrate this month by spreading the word about the severity of animal cruelty, or donating to organizations that help animals in abusive situations. 

Prevent Lyme Disease in Dogs Month

Lyme disease, like heartworm, is a common disease. However, lyme disease is also common in cats and humans, so watch out! It is spread through the deer tick, which can be hard to find, particularly in long-haired dogs. To celebrate Prevent Lyme Disease in Dogs month, be sure to get flea and tick medication and give it to your dog regularly, even in colder months.