True or False?

Calls to the Pet Poison Helpline spike every summer due to BBQ-related incidents.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

Here is some genuinely good news for pet owners: New York City has launched its first-ever city-funded pet food pantry, and it is a big deal. The city's 2027 budget includes $750,000 specifically to help pet owners who are struggling to afford food for their animals, along with an additional $750,000 for expanded spay and neuter services. That is $1.5 million total going toward keeping pets and the people who love them together.

The pantries will operate through existing community food networks and neighborhood hubs, with eligibility generally aligning with existing low-income assistance guidelines. The spay and neuter expansion will use mobile clinics and voucher programs redeemable at local vets. These expanded services will be distributed through a network of community partners, local animal shelters, and nonprofits across all five boroughs.

What makes this especially meaningful is why it matters. In 2025, NYC's animal shelters took in more than 16,000 animals, nearly 10,000 of which were strays, and over 6,500 were owner surrenders from families who simply could not afford to keep their pets. A pet food pantry is surrender prevention, plain and simple. Keeping families and their pets together is one of the most direct and compassionate things a community can do, and NYC just took a real step in that direction.

Summer cookouts are one of the best parts of the season, and dogs love the energy, the people, and, honestly, the smells. But backyard BBQs come with a few real hazards for pups that are worth knowing before you fire up the grill. Veterinary toxicologists report that calls to pet poison hotlines spike every summer, with the most common BBQ culprits being onions, grapes, bones, alcohol, and even charcoal briquettes.

A few things that make a big difference:

• Keep food covered and out of reach. Ask guests not to feed your dog, and set up a designated no-dog zone around the food table. Even well-meaning guests can slip something harmful without realizing it.

• Never leave your dog near the grill unsupervised. Hot surfaces can cause serious burns, and smoke inhalation is a real risk for curious pups who get too close.

• Make sure gates and doors stay closed. The excitement of a crowd can cause even calm dogs to bolt. Double-check your yard before guests arrive and remind everyone to close doors behind them.

• Set up a quiet, safe zone. If your dog gets overwhelmed by the noise and activity, having a cool, calm indoor space they can retreat to makes the whole day easier for everyone.

If your dog does get into something they should not have, contact your vet immediately or call the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661. A little preparation goes a long way toward making cookout season safe and fun for the whole family.

Table legs get scratched, chew toys go missing, and shoes are constantly sacrificed at the altar of boredom. These are regular occurrences in life with pets, and seasoned owners won’t bat an eyelash. But a $10,000 emergency surgery? That’s a whole other ball game. Pet insurance could help you offset some of these costs by providing up to 90% reimbursement, and plans starting at $10/month. Click below to find the right plan for you.

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🤔 True or False: True. Veterinary toxicologists report that calls to pet poison hotlines spike every Memorial Day weekend and stay elevated through Labor Day, with backyard BBQs being one of the biggest seasonal hazards. Onions, grapes, bones, and alcohol are among the most common culprits. When in doubt, keep the food away from your pup.

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