Every summer, stories circulate about dogs becoming severely ill or dying after swimming in a lake, pond, or river. The suspected cause is often "blue-green algae," and unfortunately, unlike many internet pet scares, this one is real. Blue-green algae poisoning is uncommon overall, but it is one of the few environmental toxicities that can turn a healthy dog into a critically ill patient within minutes to hours. In some cases, affected dogs die before reaching a veterinarian.

New World screwworm has returned to the United States after decades of successful eradication, raising questions for pet owners nationwide. Learn how this parasite affects dogs and cats, the signs of infection to watch for, treatment options, and practical prevention tips. While the current risk for pets in Philadelphia remains very low, understanding New World screwworm in pets can help you protect your furry family members.

Written by Dr. Zachary Glantz Traveling with a dog to a foreign country? What you need to know about the CDC requirements for re-entry to the United States The CDC has enacted requirements for importing dogs to the United States, with the full rules in effect as of August 1st, 2025. Under the rule, ALL dogs must be: Microchipped At least 6 months of age at the time of import (no exceptions) Healthy upon arrival Prior to arrival in the United States, owners must have completed