Hart Animal Hospital

09/01/2026

Our office will be closed October 1st - October 7th.

Thank you for understanding!

09/01/2026

Today is Ginger Cat Appreciation Day! Show us all of your lovely Gingers!

08/31/2026

Legal Consequences of Animal Abandonment

Criminal Offense: Under Michigan’s anti-cruelty statute (MCL 750.50), abandoning an animal anywhere—including a business, public property, or a veterinary facility—without making provisions for its adequate care is illegal.

Misdemeanor Charges: For a single animal, abandonment is generally a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and community service.

Financial Liability: Leaving an animal at a vet does not free the owner from financial responsibilities; owners remain legally liable for the costs of care, treatment, and disposal under the Michigan Public Health Code (MCL 333.18838)

Vet Protections: Michigan law (MCL 333.18827) protects veterinarians and staff from civil or criminal liability when they report suspected animal abandonment or neglect to law enforcement or animal control.

08/28/2026

Share a photo of the baby you most look forward to having greet you ❤️🌈

08/04/2026

07/28/2026

Great people providing top notch care!

06/30/2026

Just a reminder, we will be closed beginning July 4th and reopen on July 13th

06/29/2026

🚨 HEAT ALERT: Protect Your Pets This Week!

Michigan is expecting dangerous temperatures this week - your furry friends need extra care!

⚠️ CRITICAL WARNINGS

🚗 NEVER leave pets in hot cars - Even with windows cracked, temperatures inside can reach 120°F+ in minutes. This is DEADLY and can cause fatal heat stroke.
🌡️ Heat stroke KILLS - Dogs cannot cool themselves as effectively as humans. Watch for excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or collapse.

🐾 ESSENTIAL SAFETY TIPS

LEAVE THEM AT HOME!
- Refrain from taking them to run errands in the car
- Don't take them to dog friendly patios
- Don't take them to events outdoors this week

BRING DOGS INSIDE! Do not leave them outdoors in the heat, potty breaks only. Heat kills!

Hydration & Cooling
- Provide constant access to fresh, cool water - Check and refill bowls frequently
- Set up a kiddy pool for your dog to lounge and cool off
- Make frozen treats - Freeze dog-safe broths, plain yogurt, or water with treats inside for cooling relief
- Offer ice cubes as a refreshing snack

Exercise & Outdoor Time
- Avoid midday walks - Asphalt can burn paw pads when it's too hot for your bare hand, walk them on grass
- Walk only in early morning (before 8 AM) or late evening (after 8 PM)
- Keep outdoor time brief - Even shade can be dangerous in extreme heat
- Test pavement temperature - If it's too hot for your palm for 5 seconds, it's too hot for paws

Creating Cool Spaces
- Ensure adequate shade if pets are outside
- Provide good ventilation indoors
- Consider cooling mats or damp towels for pets to lie on
- Run fans to improve air circulation
- Keep curtains/blinds closed during peak sun hours

🚨 HEAT STROKE WARNING SIGNS
- Heavy panting or difficulty breathing
- Excessive drooling
- Weakness or collapse
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Bright red gums and tongue
- Rapid heartbeat
- High body temperature

If you see these signs, move your pet to a cool area immediately, offer water, and contact your veternarian immediately this is a EMERGENCY.

🏠 INDOOR PETS ARE NOT IMMUNE
- Ensure air conditioning or fans are working
- Provide multiple water sources
- Watch for signs of overheating even indoors
- Bring outdoor pets inside

🐱 CATS TOO!
- Provide extra water bowls
- Create cool hiding spots
- Watch for excessive panting (unusual for cats)
- Keep litter boxes in cooler areas

Remember: If you're hot, your pet is HOT. When in doubt, bring them inside and keep them cool!

Stay safe, Michigan pet parents! Your furry family members are counting on you. 🐕🐈💙

Copied from the GR Pitbull Alliance.