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With an air temperature of 85 degrees, the pavement can easily reach 135 degrees in the sun. For perspective, an egg can fry at 131 degrees in 5 seconds. Don’t expose your dog's bare foot pads to that pain!  Bare paws being on the hot pavement can cause burns and blisters. Not only are these painful for your dog, but they can become infected leading to an expensive trip to the veterinarian. Luckily, with just a few easy changes, you can keep your pup from experiencing this pain. Below are 6 tips to help keep your dog’s paws from burning on hot summer walks.  1. Check the temperature of the pavement by holding your hand against it for 30 seconds. If you find it too hot, so will your dog. 2. Avoid taking your dog on walks during the hottest parts of the day when the sun is at its strongest position. At this time, the chances of burning paws is higher. Instead, choose to walk in the morning or evening when the temperatures are lower. 3. If walking in the midday heat, choose shady locations where there is lots of tree cover. The shade will keep the ground from heating up as much.  4. Allow your dog to walk on the grass. The grass will be significantly cooler than the sidewalk or path. 5. Get your dog booties or protective salves to keep their bare feet from touching the sidewalk. While it might take your dog a bit of time to get used to them, once they figure out they get to go for a walk once they have their booties on, they’ll quickly learn to associate the boots with a positive experience. Try and start this at a cool time of day so if they throw a giant fit, they can still walk home on cool pavement. Make sure to do some research into any salves you’re thinking of purchasing to make sure they are truly safe for your pet and do what they advertise. Many of these products are unregulated and sellers can make false claims.  It is important to also be aware of other dangers to your pet that come with the increased temperatures of summer, check out some of our other summer dog safety blogs: -For information on helping your dog beat the heat and stay hydrated check out “Hydration and Heat Protection” https://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/hydration-and-heat-protection-for-dogs -For signs to watch for that could mean your dog is dehydrated or in danger of having heatstroke check out “Heatstroke and Dehydration” https://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/heatstroke-and-dehydration  Keeping these tips in mind will help keep your dog healthy this summer. You can always ask your dog's vet specific questions regarding your pets needs in the heat because every dog is different. For more information on hot paws check out: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-paws-hot-pavement/ Written By: Helen North
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In honor of pride month the Animal Care Foundation would like to acknowledge several individuals in the LQBTQIA+ community that have made meaningful impacts in animal welfare. Representation is important, making it easier for individuals to see themselves in leadership roles as well as in professional communities. These folks illuminate options that might not have seemed possible without that representation. We are proud to recognize these individuals who are an open part of the LGBTQIA+ community and make a difference in the lives of animals everyday. Currently it is estimated 15% of veterinarians in the United States identify as LGBTQIA+ and it is important they get the representation they deserve and their presence becomes the norm rather than a surprise. Dr. Joseph Kinnarney  Dr. Joseph Kinnarney was the first openly gay president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. Elected in 2014, his main goal was to make Veterinary schooling more affordable and improve wellness within the field. He has come to recognize the importance of his presidency not just in the strides he made to improve the Veterinary Medicine field and the association, but also the impact that having an openly gay president has had on inclusion within the field. Hearing from students and young professionals who shared how his openness impacted their own lives reminded him of the importance of representation. Dr. Kinnarney came out later in life after a marriage and having two sons. When he began questioning his sexuality he began working with a therapist who helped him understand his own sexuality. His presidency allowed countless young people to see themselves as veterinarians and leaders.  Dr. Dane Whitaker  Dr. Dane Whitaker is one of the past presidents of the Pride Veterinary Medical Community, an organization that works to create a better world for the LGBTQ veterinary community. Dr. Whitakker has been a practicing veterinarian for over 25 years as a transman. In 1994 he completed his veterinary degree at the University of Florida and in 2017 earned his Masters at UC Davis in Preventive Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Whitaker is an active and vocal member of the veterinary community advancing equity and inclusion in the field and sharing his lived experience through public speaking. His choice to actively and openly share his experiences and push for equity in the veterinary field has had an incredible impact on his community. You can learn more about the Pride Veterinary Medical Community Here: https://pridevmc.org/.  Jonathan Van Ness  Jonathan Van Ness is known for starring in the television show ‘Queer Eye’. Jonathan actively uses his growing platform to advocate for animal rescue and to support local shelters. He is especially passionate about helping prevent unnecessary euthanasias in rescues. Jonathan Van Ness speaks of his five cats that have helped his mental health and describes them as his “chosen family”. Jonathan pushes his community to adopt vs shop and encourages individuals to support their local rescues helping animals get the care they need and find their forever families. His passion for animal welfare shines through when he talks to his community and inspires folks to take action in their own communities.  References
https://www.avma.org/news/kinnarney-honored-avma-award-dedicated-service-avma-family https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/248/7/javma.248.7.724.pdf https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fresh-step-and-jonathan-van-ness-arent-kitten-about-cat-adoption-301873581.html https://pacvet.net/dane-whitaker-dvm-mpvm/ https://www.marinemammalcenter.org/person/dane-whitaker  Bringing a new puppy into your home is a happy and exciting event, but it also comes with significant responsibilities. We've designed a thorough checklist to help you prepare and ensure your new friend's comfort and well-being. This guide will help you handle the early phases of puppy ownership with confidence. 1. Secure Electrical Cords and Outlets Puppies love to chew, and electrical cords are a common target. To avert an accident:
Many common houseplants are poisonous to dogs. Be sure to:
 3. Store Hazardous Chemicals Household cleansers, insecticides, and other chemicals can be toxic if consumed. To ensure your puppy's safety:
Puppies can choke on small objects or mistakenly consume them, resulting in significant health consequences. Emergency surgery for an intestinal blockage is emotionally fraught and expensive. Ensure:
Trash may be a source of attraction for curious pups. To keep them from foraging in the garbage:
 6. Block Off Restricted Areas There may be locations in your home that you wish to keep off-limits to your dog. Use:
Puppies need to chew, and equipping them with suitable chew toys can help them from gnawing on inappropriate stuff. Ensure:
 8. Create a Safe Space Creating a dedicated safe spot for your puppy can help them feel comfortable while also providing a place to relax and play. Consider:
 9. Check for Escape Routes
Puppies are tiny and may easily fit through small holes. Inspect your home for possible escape routes:
Everyone in your home should be informed of the new safety precautions in place. Make sure:
Puppy proofing your house takes some effort, but it is necessary for providing a safe environment for your new furry pet. By following these steps, you can minimize the likelihood of accidents and give your puppy a happy and healthy start in their new home. Enjoy the experience of raising a puppy and the endless joy it brings! Written by: Morgan Dunleavy  Potty training your dog can feel like a daunting task, but with the right approach, patience, and consistency, you can successfully teach your furry friend to do their business in the right place. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process. 1. Understanding Your Dog’s Needs
 4. Positive Reinforcement
 7. Nighttime Potty Training
 10. When to Seek Help
For more information visit Dog Training and Behavior - Animal Care Foundation of Minnesota https://www.animalcarefoundation.org/dogtraining.html Written by: Ashley Neutgens  Fostering a pet is one of the most meaningful ways to help animals in need, but it’s not something to jump into without thinking it through first. Social media often shows the cute moments — couch naps, walks, and happy adoption photos — but fostering also takes patience, flexibility, and a little emotional preparation. When done thoughtfully, it can be an incredibly positive experience for both the animal and the family opening their home. Things to Think About Before Fostering 1. Your current pets come first Bringing a new animal home can be stressful for pets that already live with you. You often don’t know a foster’s full medical or behavioral background, so slow introductions are important. In some cases, especially with cats, animals can carry illnesses or parasites that require temporary separation. Quarantining at the beginning helps keep everyone safe and gives the foster time to decompress and adjust to a new environment.  2. You might fall in love It happens more than people expect. From personal experience, what was supposed to be temporary quickly felt like adding another family dog. Animals have a way of settling into your routines and personalities faster than you expect. Before fostering, be honest with yourself about whether you could handle saying goodbye — or whether you’re open to the possibility that the foster could become a permanent member of your family. 3. Helping kids understand Kids tend to form strong bonds with animals very quickly. Setting expectations early makes a big difference. Explaining that the animal is staying with you while waiting for its forever home helps avoid confusion later. Framing fostering as helping another family can turn the experience into a valuable lesson about empathy, responsibility, and caring for something beyond yourself. 4. The time commitment is real Fostering isn’t just providing food and a place to sleep. There may be vet visits, daily exercise, training reinforcement, and simply spending time with the animal so it feels safe. Many foster pets come from stressful or unfamiliar situations and need consistency and reassurance. Being present — even just sitting with them while they adjust — can make a huge difference in their confidence and behavior.  5. Have a plan if life changes Life is unpredictable. Work schedules shift, travel comes up, or sometimes pets just don’t get along the way you hoped. Before fostering, make sure you understand how the rescue organization handles transitions if you can no longer continue. Having a clear plan ensures the animal remains supported no matter what happens. Why It’s Still Worth It Even with the challenges, fostering is incredibly rewarding. You’re giving an animal a safe space to relax, learn trust again, and show their true personality outside of a shelter environment. Many animals get adopted faster because of the stability and socialization they receive in foster homes. Fostering also leaves an impact on the people involved. It teaches patience, compassion, and the idea that helping doesn’t always mean keeping. Saying goodbye can be emotional, but it’s also a reminder that you played a real role in changing an animal’s life.  At the end of the day, fostering isn’t just about one pet — it helps shelters free up space, supports rescue organizations, and gives animals a second chance. And while every goodbye is a little bittersweet, the feeling of knowing you helped an animal move closer to a loving forever home makes it completely worth it.
By Ethan Bernier  So you're thinking about fostering?...Let me tell you a little bit about my families experience with our foster dog. Fostering a dog is one of those things that sounds simple in theory. You open your home, provide food and love for a little while, and then help them move on to their forever family. For us, that journey started when we brought home a two-year-old rescue from Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue. We told ourselves it was temporary. Just a safe stop along the way. The first night felt different. Vader didn’t know us. We didn’t know him. Every little noise made him look up. He walked through the house carefully, like he wasn’t sure if he was allowed to be there. We were nervous too, especially about introducing him to our family dog. The first few interactions were slow and cautious, but eventually something shifted. They started chasing each other in the yard, wrestling gently, and resting side by side like they had known each other forever. Watching that unfold felt like a small miracle.  It took a few days for Vader’s personality to really come out. At first, he was quiet and unsure. But once he realized he was safe, his happy tail barely stopped wagging. He followed us from room to room and leaned into every bit of attention. There’s something incredibly special about watching a dog relax into trust. You can see it in their eyes when they finally believe they’re home, even if it’s “temporary.” Of course, it wasn’t all perfect. There was the afternoon he spotted a squirrel and took off through the neighborhood, reminding us that we were still learning about each other. There were small adjustments and moments of patience. Those bumps made the experience feel real and meaningful. We originally planned to help him find his forever home. But somewhere along the way, probably around week two, we realized something had changed. He wasn’t just staying with us anymore. He was a member of our family. Fostering this dog didn’t just help him. It changed our family too. It reminded us how powerful stability, patience, and a little extra love can be. And sometimes, what starts as something temporary ends up becoming exactly where you’re meant to be. This experience for me and my family was truly rewarding. I hope you feel inspired to support a foster as we did, and I hope you are fortunate enough to make a connection with an animal as amazing as we did.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For Assistance with more challenging foster animals: Tips to Set up Fosters for Success with Challenging Dogs Links to more great rescue organization: The Bond Between and Midwest Animal Rescue By Ethan Bernier Introduction Bringing a new kitten into your home is an exciting and joyful experience. These tiny furballs bring warmth and companionship into our lives, but they also come with a mischievous streak that can lead them into trouble. To ensure your new family member is safe and happy, it's essential to kitten-proof your home. In this blog, we'll guide you through the process of making your home a safe and welcoming environment for your curious kitten. When you first bring your kitten home, consider gradually introducing them to your space by allowing them access to only one room at a time. If they are a bit fearful, use a room that is less traveled so they can get used to the sounds and smells of your home. Go in to visit often, even if it is just to sit in the room while they hide. Once your kitten is done hiding, you can allow them into a room that you spend a great deal of time in, this will help them bond with you as they will learn that you are a safe human. Once they have learned to trust you, you can let them into the rest of your home, though you might want to start with supervised exploration if they are extremely curious or you haven’t finished the kitten proofing listed below.  1. Remove Hazardous Items Kittens are natural explorers and may chew on or swallow things they shouldn't. Begin by identifying and removing any potential hazards, especially those they may swallow or that are toxic. Small objects, like rubber bands, hair ties, and string should be removed to prevent your kitten from ingesting them, potentially leading to dangerous blockages. Toxic plants are another concern. Kittens will often chew on plants and eat the pieces they bite off. Some common houseplants are incredibly toxic to our fur friends and should be removed. Others will cause our pet discomfort or pain, and unlike humans, most won’t figure out that the plant they ate is what led to the tummy ache. Learn more about the most common and dangerous plants in our toxic plant blog here. https://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/poisonous-plants Chemicals are another concern, kittens and cats will lick many things, even if we don’t think they would taste good, so take a moment and ensure that no chemicals are available for them to eat (the most common issues are with bug or rodent killers and cleaners). 2. Cord Management Kittens love to play with strings and cords, but they can pose serious dangers. Ensure electrical cords are out of reach or encased in protective covers. This prevents your kitten from chewing or accidentally pulling on them, avoiding electrical shocks and hazards as well as damage to your electronics. (Those computer chargers are PRICY!)  3. Secure Cabinets and Drawers Kittens are known for their knack for finding hidden treasures in cabinets and drawers. Be prepared to invest in childproof locks to keep curious paws out of places they shouldn't be if you end up with a kitten who opens cabinets. This also helps avoid accidents or them getting stuck. While these are not necessary for all cats, there are a few who will need the additional deterrence. 4. Cover Trash Bins Kittens are experts in rummaging through trash. To avoid messes and potential ingestion of harmful substances, keep your trash cans securely covered or behind a closed door. 5. Anchor Heavy Furniture Kittens love to climb and jump on furniture. To prevent accidents, anchor heavy items like bookshelves and TVs to the wall. This also keeps your kitten from knocking over expensive electronics. Most furniture comes with wall anchors for toddler protection, these devices work for kitten proofing as well.  6. Provide Safe Toys and Scratching Posts Kittens need mental and physical stimulation. Offer a variety of safe toys, scratching posts, and interactive playtime to keep your furry friend entertained and prevent them from seeking entertainment in potentially hazardous ways. Consider rotating toys every couple weeks, this will help your cat remain mentally stimulated with the removal and reintroduction of different toys. 7. Litter Box Accessibility Make sure your kitten can access the litter box easily. A kitten's bladder is small, and they need to relieve themselves frequently. Keep the litter box clean and accessible to encourage proper litter box use. If you have more than one cat, you should provide additional boxes and locations to keep dominance issues from preventing litter box access. It is recommended to have 1 more box than you do cats (so if you have 2 cats, have 3 litter boxes). Place them on each floor of your home, or if you live in an apartment try to provide boxes in at least two locations. 8. Check Heating and Cooling Systems Ensure that your heating and cooling systems are safe for your kitten. Block access to heating vents, and use screens or barriers around radiators and fireplaces to prevent burns. This includes stove tops, especially electric ones which remain hot after they are turned off.  Conclusion
Kitten-proofing your home is a vital step in ensuring your new pet's safety and happiness. By identifying and addressing potential hazards, securing dangerous areas, and providing a stimulating environment, you can create a space where your kitten can thrive and grow into a healthy and happy adult cat. With a little preparation, you can enjoy the company of your furry friend while keeping them out of harm's way. Written by: Ashley Neutgens When the weather takes a turn for the worse, it's not only humans who feel the impact—our furry friends do too. Rain, snow, or extreme temperatures can make outdoor activities challenging for pets, leaving them restless and bored indoors. However, with a bit of creativity and some thoughtful planning, you can turn those gloomy days into opportunities for quality time with your four-legged companions. Here are some paw-some ideas to keep your pet entertained indoors during bad weather.  1. Interactive Toys: Invest in interactive toys that engage your pet's mind and body. Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, and squeaky plushies can provide hours of entertainment. These toys not only stimulate your pet mentally but also keep them physically active, preventing boredom-related behaviors. 2. Indoor Fetch: Just because you can't go outside doesn't mean you can't play fetch. Choose a soft, lightweight ball or toy and play fetch in a pet-friendly area indoors. Be mindful of fragile items and clear a safe space to avoid any accidental collisions.  3. Hide and Seek: This classic game isn't just for kids—pets love it too! Hide your pet's favorite toys or treats around the house and encourage them to find them. This game taps into their natural instincts and keeps them entertained while offering mental stimulation. If you start with a more smelly treat and in a limited space they will catch on more quickly. 4. Tug-of-War: A simple game of tug-of-war can be an excellent way to keep your pet active and engaged. Use a sturdy rope toy and make sure to play in an area where there's enough space. Always be mindful of your pet's size and strength to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience and don’t pull too hard or it can impact their teeth over time (think about how braces work but the tug of war can have a negative impact).  5. Enrichment Feeding: Turn mealtime into a mentally stimulating activity by using puzzle feeders or hiding small portions of food around the house. This not only makes your pet work for their food but also adds an element of excitement to their daily routine. You don’t need to go out and buy expensive items. An old cereal box with holes punched in it works just as well! 6. Teach New Tricks: Bad weather days provide an excellent opportunity to work on training and teaching your pet new tricks. Use positive reinforcement, treats, and praise to make the learning process enjoyable for your furry friend.  When Mother Nature decides to keep you indoors, don't let it rain on your pet's parade. With a bit of creativity and some thoughtful planning, you can turn bad weather days into memorable indoor adventures for you and your beloved companions. By engaging your pet's mind and body, you'll not only keep them entertained but also strengthen the bond you share. So, whether it's pouring rain or snowing outside, you and your pet can weather the storm together, creating lasting memories along the way.
Written by: Ashley Neutgens As the winter season approaches, it's essential to prepare not only yourself but also your beloved furry companions for the chilly weather. Just like humans, pets need protection from the cold, too! Pet-friendly winter gear can help keep your four-legged friend warm and comfortable during those frosty walks and outdoor adventures. In this blog, we'll provide some suggestions on where to find pet-friendly winter gear for your pets. For more about what specific things to keep in mind when looking for winter gear, check out our blog “Tips for Choosing Winter Boots and Jackets for your Dog” here:  1. Local Pet Stores Local pet stores are a great place to start your search for pet-friendly winter gear. Many of these stores carry a variety of winter essentials for pets, including coats, sweaters, boots, and even cozy blankets. Visiting your neighborhood pet store allows you to see and touch the gear to ensure it's the right fit and style for your pet. If you go right after a holiday, you can often find discounted items making them more affordable. 2. DIY and Craft Stores For those who enjoy getting creative, craft stores can be a great place to find materials to make your pet's winter gear. You can sew custom coats and sweaters using fleece, wool, or other warm materials. Just make sure that any items you create are safe for your pet and don't have any small parts that could be ingested. 3. Local Shelters and Rescues Local animal shelters and rescue organizations may host winter gear drives or events where you can find affordable or even free pet winter gear. Many of these items are gently used but still in excellent condition. Additionally, your purchase or donation can support a good cause.  4. Handmade and Local Artisans Supporting local artisans and crafters is a wonderful way to find unique, handcrafted pet winter gear. Visit local craft fairs, artisan markets, or browse online platforms like Etsy to discover handmade coats, scarves, and other items that are tailored to your pet's size and personality. 5. Online Retailers Online shopping has made it easier than ever to find a wide selection of pet-friendly winter gear. Websites like Amazon, Chewy, and Petco offer a vast range of products for pets, including winter coats, thermal blankets, and boots. Online retailers often provide detailed product descriptions and customer reviews to help you make an informed decision.  Remember to check for reviews and product specifications to ensure you're getting the right gear for your dog's size and needs. Additionally, consider the climate and specific requirements of your dog when choosing winter gear. Most online retailers have discounted pet winter gear, keep your eye out in the clearance section to save some money!  Conclusion
Keeping your pets warm and comfortable during the winter season is essential for their health and well-being. Whether you're looking for a stylish winter coat, cozy blanket, or durable boots for your furry friend, there are plenty of options available. Be sure to consider your pet's specific needs and preferences when choosing the right winter gear. With the above sources in mind, you'll be well-prepared to help your pet stay cozy and happy throughout the chilly months ahead. Written by: Ashley Neutgens Wow… where do I even begin? Volunteering with the Animal Care Foundation has been one of the most heart-filling experiences of my semester at the University of St. Thomas. Every week felt like I was doing something meaningful not just for myself, but for families, pets, and the community.  As a lifelong dog lover, I’ve always wanted to find a way to contribute. Growing up in Peru, I saw so many street dogs without homes. Since I was a kid, I dreamed of starting an orphanage for dogs — a place where they could feel loved, safe, and appreciated. So being part of an organization whose mission is to help families stay together by ensuring their pets can access veterinary care and stay with the humans they love connected to a part of me I’ve carried since I was a kid. What they are doing is nothing short of beautiful — removing financial and emotional barriers that could separate pets from the families who depend on them.  The team welcomed me from day one, and their passion and compassion inspired me every single time. Supporting their mission while strengthening my marketing skills became the perfect blend of purpose and professional growth. Through creating social media posts, scheduling content, and brainstorming ways to raise awareness, I developed not only creativity and strategic thinking, but also a strong sense of responsibility, communication, organization, and attention to detail. These skills didn’t stay within my volunteer experience — I brought them into my class projects, my work, and everything else I do. Volunteering with the Animal Care Foundation was a reminder of why I love dogs so deeply and why helping people keep their pets matters. I’m grateful for every moment and even more excited to continue finding ways to support causes that inspire me and bring good into the world.  I would recommend this experience because you are not just going to love it — you’re going to feel it. You’ll feel the impact you’re making, the passion behind the mission, and the joy of helping families stay whole. It’s an opportunity to grow, to give back, and to be part of something truly meaningful. If you care about animals, community, or simply doing good, this is an experience that stays with you long after it ends.
Written by: Luciane Cox |
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