January - Mark your calendar for your animals’ annual checkup and vaccinations. Schedule an annual appointment to have your pet’s teeth cleaned.

February - Chocolate can be deadly to animals. Be sure to keep your Valentine’s sweets out of their reach.

March - This is the time of year when mosquitoes start to hatch. Be sure to keep your dog or cat on heartworm prevention medication all year.

April - Easter is the time when people are tempted to give live rabbits and chicks as gifts. Many of these end up living horrible, short lives. Give stuffed animals instead.

May - As summer vacations are planned, make sure your pet’s ID is current. Update your microchip registry information.

June - Hurricane season is almost here. Make sure you have a safe way to transport your pets in case of evacuation.

July - Fireworks scare animals. Be sure to provide a safe place while you and the neighbors celebrate.

August - Dogs love to go along on outings to the lake or beach. Be sure to outfit your dog with a life jacket in case of emergency.

September - Protect pets from cooler overnight temperatures by keeping them inside. Prepare a disaster plan that includes pet care items in case you lose power for an extended period of time during a seasonal storm.

October - Halloween is a dangerous time for black cats. Keep them indoors so that no mischief or harm comes to them.

November - Many Thanksgiving foods and treats are too rich for your pets. Be sure to give treats that are healthy for animals.

December - Pine needles, tinsel, ornaments, tree lights, candy and poinsettias can all be harmful to pets. Take precautions to prevent your animals from ingesting these dangerous holiday items.