By Alan Green and Arnaldo Torres

Most Lowcountry pet owners are aware that there are snakes in our woodlands, parks and possibly our own backyards. After the recent flooding, pet owners have reported an increased number of snake sightings; these reptiles can represent a threat to any curious pets that get too close to one. This month Dr. Arnaldo Torres, one of our esteemed emergency doctors, will present an overview of how snakebites affect pets and the treatment options that are available to unlucky victims.

It's probably safe to say that learning how to make a dog vomit isn't on top of your list of priorities. But it's an essential lifesaving skill for all dog parents. "Dogs will be dogs and that means that most will misbehave given the opportunity," says veterinarian Dr. Marisa Scott of Charleston Veterinary Referral Center in South Carolina. "Dogs love to eat things they shouldn't, and this includes items that are toxic and potentially fatal." Chocolate, for example, is extremely harmful for dogs.

By Alan Green and Carly Conrad

A disease that is a true killer both in dogs and cats is one transmitted by mosquitoes. Here in the Lowcountry we have our fair share of these annoying and potentially deadly insects. It gives me great pleasure this month to introduce one of CVRC’s outstanding and highly skilled emergency doctors, Dr. Carly Conrad. Dr. Conrad has written an important and detailed piece on heartworm disease. I would urge all of the readers to educate yourselves on the disease and preventive measures you can take to protect your furry family members.