Tangerine Pet Clinic
At Tangerine Pet Clinic, we know that your fur babies are more than just pets—they’re cherished members of your family. That’s why our dedicated veterinary team is committed to providing the highest level of veterinary care in a truly stress-free environment. Voted Best of Tucson’s veterinary clinic, we take pride in treating every animal with the compassion and respect they deserve. Our knowledgeable vets and support staff have years of experience in veterinary medicine, specializing in dogs and cats. Whether you’re visiting us for a routine check-up or specialized medical care, you can trust that your pet is in the hands of a team that treats every patient as if they were their own.

Our Mission and Values
Our mission at Tangerine Pet Clinic is simple: to deliver the best possible care for your pets, every single visit. We believe that veterinary care should be as gentle and compassionate as it is effective, which is why we strive to create a welcoming environment where both you and your pet feel at ease. As a proud member of the American Animal Hospital Association, we are committed to upholding the highest standards in veterinary medicine, utilizing the latest technology and up-to-date treatments to ensure your pet receives the best care available. Our values are rooted in kindness, compassion, and a deep respect for the special bond you share with your pet. We are dedicated to being a trusted partner for pet owners throughout Tucson, offering guidance, support, and gentle care at every stage of your pet’s life.

A Win for Our Community — and Your Pets
We are honored to share that Tangerine Pet Clinic has been named Best of Tucson in the Veterinarian category. For us, this isn’t just an award. It’s a reflection of what matters most: the trust you place in us when you bring your dogs and cats through our doors. Our commitment to providing outstanding service to the community is at the heart of everything we do.  ​Every wagging tail, every gentle purr, every anxious paw held during a check-up — these are the moments that define why we do what we do. We believe in sharing our knowledge with pet owners to empower you to make the best decisions for your pets. Our staff is always ready to answer all your questions, ensuring you feel confident and satisfied with your pet’s care. This award belongs as much to you, our clients, as it does to our team. Because caring for pets isn’t about accolades. It’s about going the extra mile for those who mean everything to you.

What Sets Tangerine Pet Clinic Apart
Being recognized as the Best Veterinarian in Tucson is more than a title — it’s proof of the approach we take every single day: providing comprehensive veterinary care that includes routine check-ups, emergency care, and specialized treatments.

• Concierge-Level Veterinary Care: We know pets are family. That’s why we offer personalized, one-on-one care plans tailored to each dog and cat who walks through our doors. Our veterinarians create individualized treatment plans to meet your pet’s specific needs.
• Stress-Free Experience: From calming techniques to gentle handling, we put comfort first — for pets and people alike.
• Advanced Services: Whether it’s routine wellness, senior diagnostics, dental care, managing chronic conditions, or a wide range of surgeries—from routine spay/neuter to advanced soft tissue and orthopedic surgery—we combine advanced medicine with a compassionate touch.
• Local Heart, Local Roots: Marana and NW Tucson aren’t just where we work — they’re our community. We’re proud to care for the pets who brighten homes right here in the desert.

Veterinary Services: Comprehensive Care for Every Pet
Tangerine Pet Clinic offers a full spectrum of veterinary services designed to meet the unique needs of every pet. Our experienced veterinary team provides everything from routine wellness exams and vaccinations to advanced surgical care and dentistry. We’re equipped to handle soft tissue and orthopedic surgeries, as well as diagnostic services like X-rays and ultrasounds for dogs and cats, and small mammals. Our team also offers nutrition counseling to help your fur baby thrive, and we’re always here to answer your questions about your pet’s health. Whether your pet needs preventive care, dental services, or emergency services, you can count on us to deliver compassionate, comprehensive care tailored to your pet’s individual needs.

Emergency and Urgent Care When It Matters Most
Emergencies can happen when you least expect them, and at Tangerine Pet Clinic, we’re prepared to provide the urgent and emergency services your pet needs. Our compassionate veterinary team is trained to respond quickly and effectively to a wide range of situations, ensuring your pet receives the best possible care when it matters most. Our facility is equipped with the latest technology, allowing us to diagnose and treat critical conditions with speed and precision. When your pet’s life is on the line, you can trust our team to deliver prompt, expert, and compassionate care in a supportive environment.

Diagnostic and Treatment Plans Tailored to Your Pet
Every pet is unique, and at Tangerine Pet Clinic, we believe their care should be too. Our veterinary team takes the time to get to know each patient, working closely with you to develop personalized diagnostic and treatment plans that address your pet’s specific health concerns. From advanced surgical care and acupuncture to nutritional counseling and ongoing wellness support, we offer a wide range of options to ensure your pet receives the best possible care. Our caring team is dedicated to collaborating with you, answering all your questions, and making sure you feel confident in every decision about your pet’s health. At Tangerine Pet Clinic, your pet’s well-being is always our top priority.

Why This Award Matters for You and Your Pet
When you’re searching for a veterinarian, you’re not just looking for medical expertise. You’re looking for someone who will:

• Listen to your concerns.
• Treat your pet as their own.
• Provide clear guidance, not confusion.
• Be there in joyful moments (puppy visits, new kitten exams) and in difficult ones (senior care, end-of-life support). Regular veterinary check-ups help to assess a pet’s overall health, ensuring they stay happy and healthy throughout their lives.

Our vet provides comprehensive veterinary care, utilizing modern technology and tailored treatment plans for all pets, including exotic animals, and is ready to handle emergencies with expertise and compassion.
This award confirms what our clients already know: at Tangerine Pet Clinic, your pet’s health and happiness come first. Always.

Stories That Inspire Us
Behind this award are countless stories that fuel our passion.

• The golden retriever who came in fearful, but left wagging thanks to gentle handling.
• The senior cat whose hidden illness was caught early with diagnostics, giving her extra years of comfort.
• The puppy whose first wellness visit included laughter, tail wags, and a lifetime of care that’s only just begun.

These aren’t just appointments. They’re bonds. And each one strengthens our commitment to being the clinic you can trust.

A Call to Action for Pet Parents
Awards are wonderful. But what matters most is how this recognition translates into better care for your furry family member. Veterinary practices often utilize modern technology to enhance pet care, ensuring your pet receives the best possible treatment.
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If you’ve been waiting for the right time to schedule your pet’s wellness exam, dental cleaning, or senior diagnostic panel — this is your sign. Don’t wait until something feels wrong. Routine veterinary exams are designed to evaluate a pet's total health needs, making preventative care the greatest gift you can give your dog or cat.

✨ Schedule your appointment today at Tangerine Pet Clinic — voted Best of Tucson Veterinarian.
Call us at (520) 848-3644 or book online here.
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Because your best friend deserves the very best.

A Calm Cat with No Signs of Trouble
Miss Kitty is the kind of cat everyone falls in love with. A 12-year-old tortoiseshell with wise green eyes and a calm, quirky personality, she belongs to Tangerine Pet Clinic’s own marketing team. She spends most of her days napping in cozy corners, occasionally supervising work from a sunny perch, and politely asking for treats with the softest meow.
To anyone who meets her, Miss Kitty looks perfectly healthy. She still purrs when brushed, eats with enthusiasm, and greets visitors with her signature slow blinks. Nothing about her behavior suggested anything was wrong.
But during her routine senior wellness visit, her veterinarian recommended something that would change everything: a panel of bloodwork tests.

Miss Kitty: A Sweet Senior with a Silent Problem
At 12 years old, Miss Kitty is considered a senior cat. While she still has plenty of energy for batting at a toy mouse, her age puts her at higher risk for hidden illnesses. Cats are experts at masking pain and discomfort—a survival trait from their wild ancestors.
During her exam, her veterinarian found no outward red flags. Her weight was stable, her coat glossy, and her heart sounded steady. Many owners might think, “If she’s eating, purring, and moving fine—why run tests?”
But Miss Kitty’s team knew the truth: what you can’t see matters.

What Routine Bloodwork Found
Miss Kitty’s bloodwork revealed something invisible to the naked eye: early kidney disease.
Kidney disease is one of the most common conditions in aging cats. By the time cats show obvious symptoms—like increased thirst, weight loss, or poor appetite—the disease is often already advanced.
Because Miss Kitty’s condition was caught early, her care team was able to act immediately:

• She was transitioned to a special prescription kidney diet to reduce strain on her kidneys.
• Her hydration is now monitored, with added encouragement to drink more water.
• Regular bloodwork and urine testing track her progress.

The results? Miss Kitty is still thriving. She naps, purrs, and enjoys life—just with a little extra support.
Her story is a reminder: lab work isn’t about what’s wrong today, it’s about protecting tomorrow.

The Truth About Aging Cats and Hidden Illness

Why Cats Hide Illness
Cats are prey as well as predators. In the wild, showing weakness could make them vulnerable. Even our beloved indoor cats have inherited this instinct to mask discomfort.
That’s why many diseases—including kidney disease, thyroid issues, liver disease, and diabetes—go unnoticed until they’re advanced.

What Bloodwork Can Reveal
Routine lab panels provide a window into your cat’s health:

• Kidney function (early detection of kidney disease)
• Liver enzymes (detecting liver disease or infections)
• Thyroid hormone levels (common in older cats)
• Blood sugar (diabetes detection)
• Red and white blood cells (anemia, infection, or immune concerns)

Miss Kitty’s kidneys told a story her body hadn’t shown yet. That’s the power of diagnostics.

What You Can Do to Help Your Senior Pet

1. Start Senior Wellness Exams at Age 7
Cats age faster than we do. A 7-year-old cat is roughly equivalent to a 50-year-old human. Twice-yearly wellness visits allow your veterinarian to monitor for subtle changes.
2. Say Yes to Routine Bloodwork
Even if your cat “seems fine,” labs can detect hidden issues early, when treatment is most effective.
3. Watch for Subtle Changes at Home
Small shifts—drinking more water, peeing more often, changes in grooming, slight weight loss—may be early signs of disease.
4. Don’t Assume Indoor Cats Are Safe
Indoor cats like Miss Kitty live longer, but that also means they face more age-related health challenges. Being indoors does not make them immune to illness.
5. Partner with Your Veterinary Team
Senior cat care is a team effort. Your observations at home plus your vet’s diagnostics create the clearest picture of health.

Friendly FAQs

When should I take my senior cat to the vet?
Most veterinarians recommend twice a year for cats over age 7. This allows earlier detection of illness.
What can bloodwork detect in older cats?
Bloodwork can detect kidney disease, liver issues, thyroid problems, diabetes, anemia, and infections—often before symptoms appear.
Is my indoor cat at risk for hidden illness?
Yes. Indoor cats live longer, which increases the chances of age-related conditions like kidney disease or hyperthyroidism.
How often should bloodwork be done for senior cats?
Annually at minimum; every 6 months is ideal for cats over 10 years old.
What changes at home mean I should schedule an exam?
Increased thirst, changes in appetite, weight loss, or unusual behavior should all prompt a veterinary checkup.

Call to Action
Miss Kitty’s story proves a simple test can change everything. Because her kidney disease was detected early, she’s still enjoying her golden years in comfort—and with many more slow blinks to share.
💛 Don’t wait until symptoms show. A simple blood test today can add years to your cat’s life.
👉 Schedule your senior wellness exam and lab panel at Tangerine Pet Clinic in Marana. Call us at (520) 848-3644 or contact us here.

Labor Day in Marana is a special time. It’s the unofficial farewell to the long, sun-drenched days of summer, a chance for one last backyard barbecue, a final dip in the pool, and a moment to gather with family and friends under the vast Arizona sky. As we celebrate the hard work that builds our community, we naturally want to include the furry family members who bring so much joy to our lives. For them, a holiday means more people, more excitement, and more delicious smells wafting from the grill.
At Tangerine Pet Clinic, we understand this profound bond because we’re not just veterinarians; we are your neighbors. This clinic was built on a dream—the dream of Dr. Michele Estheimer, who grew up right here in Marana and is a proud graduate of Mountain View High School, to return to her roots and serve the community she calls home. As a local, independent veterinary practice, we’ve created a different kind of pet care experience. Our concierge approach is a promise to you: a promise of a true partnership built on trust, convenience with services like same-day appointments, and highly personalized care for your dogs and cats. We know your pet by name, and we are dedicated to ensuring every holiday is filled with happy memories, not stressful emergencies.  

To help you do just that, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to Labor Day safety. Think of it as a conversation with your trusted Marana vet, designed to help you navigate the specific challenges and joys of a holiday weekend in our unique Sonoran Desert environment. From BBQ etiquette to beating the persistent Arizona heat, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your dogs and cats safe, healthy, and happy.

The Ultimate Guide to a Pet-Safe Backyard BBQ
The heart of many Labor Day celebrations is the backyard barbecue. The sizzle of the grill and the aroma of delicious food create a festive atmosphere, but for our curious pets, it can also be a minefield of potential hazards. A little bit of planning can ensure the feast is fun for everyone, two-legged and four-legged alike.

The Grill is a No-Pet Zone
The grill itself is the first and most obvious danger. The enticing smells can lure even the most well-behaved pet too close, leading to serious risks.

• Establish a Three-Foot Rule: Keep pets at least three feet away from the grill at all times. This creates a safe buffer zone, protecting them from painful burns from the hot surface, grease splatters, or falling embers.  
• Beware of Grill Accessories: Lighter fluid contains hydrocarbons that are irritating if ingested and can cause severe lung injury if inhaled. Charcoal briquettes, if eaten, can cause an upset stomach or even a dangerous intestinal blockage. Even the grease trap is a significant hazard; the high-fat content of collected grease can trigger a severe and painful case of pancreatitis if ingested. Always ensure these items are stored securely out of your pet's reach.  

The Pet-Unfriendly Feast: Foods to Keep Off Their Plate
While it’s tempting to share your plate with those pleading eyes, many of our favorite BBQ foods are dangerous for dogs and cats. It’s crucial to educate yourself and politely inform your guests that sharing food with the pets is off-limits to prevent an emergency trip to your Marana veterinarian.

• Fatty Foods: Rich, fatty foods like hot dogs, burgers, steak trimmings, and the skin from chicken or turkey can overwhelm a pet's digestive system. This can lead to pancreatitis, a serious and painful inflammation of the pancreas that often requires hospitalization.  
• Bones, Corn Cobs, and Skewers: Cooked bones become brittle and can easily splinter, causing choking, broken teeth, or life-threatening punctures in the digestive tract. Corn cobs are a common cause of intestinal blockages that require major surgery to remove. Wooden and metal skewers, often soaked in tempting juices, can cause devastating internal injuries if swallowed. Ensure all these items are disposed of immediately in a trash can with a secure lid.  
• Onions and Garlic: These are staples in many rubs, marinades, salads, and dips, but they belong to the Allium family, which is toxic to both dogs and cats. They can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia. Cats are particularly sensitive.  
• Grapes and Raisins: Often found in fruit salads or side dishes, grapes and raisins are extremely toxic to pets and can cause sudden, irreversible kidney failure.  
• Desserts and Xylitol: Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs and cats. More dangerously, the artificial sweetener xylitol is found in many sugar-free baked goods, candies, and even some peanut butters. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs and can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar, seizures, and liver failure.  
• Alcohol and Marijuana: Pets are far more sensitive to the effects of alcohol and marijuana than humans. Even small amounts can cause intoxication, vomiting, disorientation, and in severe cases, respiratory depression or coma. Keep all alcoholic beverages and cannabis products well out of reach.  
  
  

For a quick reference during your party, here is a simple guide to common BBQ foods.

• Cooked Bones - DANGER - Can splinter, causing choking or internal punctures.
• Corn on the Cob - DANGER - A common cause of life-threatening intestinal blockage.
• Onions & Garlic - DANGER - Toxic; can damage red blood cells and cause anemia.
• Grapes & Raisins - DANGER - Highly toxic; can cause acute kidney failure.
• Chocolate & Xylitol - DANGER - Extremely toxic; can cause seizures, liver failure, or death.
• Fatty Meat Scraps - CAUTION - High risk of causing painful pancreatitis.
• Plain Cooked Turkey (boneless/skinless) - SAFE - Offer small, unseasoned pieces as a special treat.
• Carrot Sticks - SAFE - A healthy, crunchy, low-calorie snack.
• Apple Slices (no seeds/core) - SAFE - Good source of fiber; remove seeds and core first.
• Green Beans (plain) - SAFE - A healthy, low-calorie treat that many dogs love.

Safe & Healthy Treats for Your Four-Legged Guests
Including your pet doesn't mean they have to miss out entirely. Offering them pet-safe treats allows them to join the fun without the risk.

• Lean and Plain: Small, bite-sized pieces of unseasoned, cooked lean meat like boneless, skinless chicken or turkey are a wonderful treat.  
• Garden Goodies: Many fresh fruits and vegetables are great options. Try offering carrot sticks, green beans, cucumber slices, or small pieces of apple (with seeds and core removed) or blueberries.  
• Keep it Limited: Remember that treats should make up no more than 10% of your pet's total daily calorie intake to maintain a healthy weight and balanced diet. If you ever have questions about your pet's specific nutritional needs, our team at Tangerine Pet Clinic is here to provide personalized nutrition counseling to support their long-term health.  

Beating the Arizona Heat: A Critical Labor Day PriorityWhile much of the country sees Labor Day as the end of summer, here in Marana, we know the heat is far from over. Early September still brings dangerously high temperatures, with average highs in the mid-to-high 90s Fahrenheit. This intense heat poses a serious risk of dehydration, paw burns, and life-threatening heatstroke for our pets.  

Understanding the Marana Climate
The Sonoran Desert sun is relentless. Pavement and asphalt can reach temperatures high enough to cause serious burns to your pet's paw pads in under a minute. Before any walk, always perform the 7-second pavement test: place the back of your hand firmly on the walking surface for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it is absolutely too hot for your dog’s paws.  

Recognizing the Warning Signs of Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a medical emergency where the body's temperature rises to a critical level, leading to organ failure and death if not treated immediately. Early detection is key.

• Signs in Dogs: Look for excessive and heavy panting, thick and sticky drool, bright red or pale gums, restlessness or agitation, stumbling or disorientation (drunken-like movements), vomiting, diarrhea, collapse, or seizures.  
• Signs in Cats: Cats are masters of hiding illness, so their signs can be more subtle. Watch for rapid, open-mouthed panting, drooling, vocalizing (unusual yowling), wobbliness, lethargy, or hiding in cool places like sinks or tiled floors.

Some pets are at a higher risk, including flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persian cats, as well as senior pets, overweight animals, and those with pre-existing heart or respiratory conditions.  

Proactive Prevention: Your Heat Safety Game Plan
Prevention is the only true cure for heatstroke. A few simple adjustments to your holiday plans can keep your pet safe.

• Time Your Outings: All outdoor activities, including walks and playtime, must be limited to the coolest hours of the day—very early in the morning (before 8 a.m.) or late in the evening after the sun has set and the pavement has had time to cool.  
• Hydration is Crucial: Provide constant access to multiple sources of fresh, cool water. Place bowls in shaded spots outdoors and in various locations inside. Adding ice cubes can make the water more appealing.  
• Provide Shade and Airflow: Any pet spending time outside must have access to a well-ventilated, shaded area at all times. A covered patio with a fan is a good option.  
• NEVER Leave a Pet in a Parked Car: This cannot be overstated. On an 80-degree day, the temperature inside a car can exceed 100 degrees in just 20 minutes. In Marana's heat, it can become a lethal oven in minutes, even with the windows cracked. There is no safe amount of time to leave a pet in a vehicle.  

Emergency First Aid for Heatstroke
If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, every second counts. Immediate action can save their life. Follow these steps while you prepare to bring them to the veterinarian immediately.

1. Move to a Cooler Location: Immediately get your pet out of the sun and into an air-conditioned room or a shady spot.  
2. Begin Cooling Measures: Apply cool--never ice-cold—water to their body. You can use wet towels, focusing on their paws, groin, armpits, and neck. A fan blowing over their damp fur will increase evaporative cooling. Using water that is too cold can cause their blood vessels to constrict, which traps heat and can make the situation worse.  
3. Offer Water: Provide small amounts of cool water to drink, but do not force them, as they could inhale it.  
4. Call Us Immediately: Contact Tangerine Pet Clinic at (520) 848-DOGG (3644). Inform us that you have a potential heatstroke emergency and are on your way. Even if your pet seems to be recovering with at-home cooling, they must be seen by a veterinarian. Heatstroke can cause severe internal damage to organs like the kidneys and liver, which may not be apparent until hours or days later.  

Navigating Holiday Adventures: Pool and Travel Safety
Labor Day often involves a trip to the pool or a drive to visit family. These activities can be wonderful bonding experiences, but they come with their own set of safety considerations. At Tangerine Pet Clinic, we approach all aspects of pet care through our Fear-Free inspired philosophy, which means our goal is to protect not only your pet’s physical safety but also their emotional well-being.  

Poolside Preparedness for Water-Loving Pets
A refreshing dip in the pool can be a great way for dogs to cool off, but water safety is paramount.

• Supervision is Everything: Never leave a pet unsupervised near a pool, lake, or any body of water, not even for a second. Drowning can happen quickly and silently.  
• Teach the Exit Strategy: The most important swimming lesson you can teach your dog is how to get out of the pool. Many dogs can swim but panic when they can't find the steps. Guide them repeatedly to the stairs or ramp so they learn the safe exit point by heart.  
• Invest in Safety Gear: A secure, four-sided pool fence is the best way to prevent accidental falls into the water. For the dog itself, a well-fitting life vest provides extra security, especially for breeds that are not natural swimmers (like Bulldogs or Pugs) or for any dog spending extended time in the water.  
• Hydrate with Fresh Water: Discourage your dog from drinking large amounts of pool water. Chlorine and other pool chemicals can cause stomach upset, and saltwater can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Always have a bowl of fresh, cool water available poolside.  
• Post-Swim Care: After swimming, rinse your dog’s coat with fresh water to remove chlorine, salt, and chemicals that can irritate their skin. Take special care to thoroughly dry their ears, as trapped moisture is a leading cause of painful ear infections.  

Fear-Free Travel: Hitting the Road with Your Companion
A car trip can be a source of great anxiety for many pets. Approaching travel with a Fear-Free mindset can transform the experience from stressful to enjoyable.

• Safety First, Always: The safest way for a pet to travel is in the back seat, secured in a crash-tested carrier that is strapped in with a seatbelt or a well-fitted safety harness attached to the seatbelt buckle. This prevents them from becoming a projectile in a sudden stop and keeps them from distracting the driver. Never allow a dog to ride with their head out the window; this exposes them to eye injuries from road debris.  
  
• Practice Makes Perfect: Get your pet comfortable with the car long before your trip. Start with short, fun rides to a nearby park or for a special treat, gradually increasing the duration. This helps break the association that the car only leads to the vet.  
  
• Pack Their Go-Bag: A well-stocked travel kit should include their regular food, bottled water (to avoid stomach upset from unfamiliar water sources), any necessary medications, a leash, waste bags, and a pet first-aid kit. Bringing a familiar blanket or favorite toy can provide a comforting scent of home.  
  
• Address Anxiety and Motion Sickness: For pets who struggle with travel, there are many tools available to reduce their fear, anxiety, and stress. Calming pheromone sprays like Adaptil for dogs or Feliway for cats, pressure wraps like the ThunderShirt, or calming supplements can be very effective. For more significant anxiety or motion sickness, please schedule a consultation with us. We can discuss prescription anti-anxiety or anti-nausea medications that can make the journey peaceful for everyone involved.  

Keeping the Peace: Managing Anxiety from Fireworks and Guests
The loud noises and unfamiliar faces of a holiday celebration can be overwhelming for our pets. Creating a calm and secure environment is essential for their emotional well-being.

The Truth About Fireworks in Pima County
It is a common misconception that consumer fireworks are allowed for every summer holiday. It is important for Marana residents to know the local regulations. Under Arizona state law (ARS § 36-1606) and Pima County code (9.04), the use of consumer fireworks is prohibited during the Labor Day holiday period. Only professional, permitted displays are allowed.  

However, we know that illegal fireworks or loud parties in the neighborhood can still happen. Being prepared for unexpected noise is the best strategy to keep your pet calm.

Creating a Safe Haven for Your Pet
When loud noises are anticipated, your pet needs a secure retreat.

• Designate a "Safe Room": Prepare a quiet, interior room of your house (a walk-in closet or bathroom often works well) where your pet can feel secure. Close the windows and blinds. If your pet is crate-trained, their crate, covered with a heavy blanket, can serve as their den.  
  
• Muffle the Noise: Use a white noise machine, a fan, or play calming classical music to help drown out the sharp sounds from outside.  
  
• Provide a Positive Distraction: Offer a high-value, long-lasting chew or a puzzle toy stuffed with their favorite treats. This gives their brain a job to do and can redirect their focus away from the frightening noises.
  
• Consider Calming Aids: As mentioned for travel, pheromone diffusers, anxiety vests, and calming supplements can be used to create a more relaxed state before the noise even begins.  

A Full House: Managing Guests and Pet Stress
From a pet’s perspective, a house full of unfamiliar people can be just as stressful as fireworks. It’s an invasion of their territory by loud strangers.

• Offer a Private Retreat: The same "safe room" you prepare for fireworks is perfect for a pet needing a break from the party. Make sure they have their bed, water, and a toy, and instruct guests that this is a "do not disturb" zone.  
  
• Watch the Exits: With guests coming and going, doors are frequently left open, creating a prime opportunity for a scared pet to bolt. Double-check that your pet is wearing a collar with up-to-date ID tags and that their microchip information is current.  
  
• Set House Rules for Guests: Politely ask your guests not to feed the pets any human food and to give them space, especially if the pet seems nervous or tries to retreat. A calm, predictable environment is key to a Fear-Free experience for your companion.  

Your Concierge Partner in Pet Health This Holiday and Beyond
Labor Day weekend should be a time of relaxation and celebration. By keeping these safety tips in mind—securing the BBQ area, knowing the signs of heatstroke in our Arizona climate, supervising all water activities, and creating a calm space for anxious pets—you can ensure the holiday is safe and enjoyable for every member of your family.

At Tangerine Pet Clinic, our concierge model is designed for your peace of mind, especially during busy times like a holiday weekend. We know that accidents can happen, which is why we offer services like same-day appointments to be there for you when you need us most. As your local, independent Marana vet, we are deeply invested in the health and happiness of our community’s pets. You’ll always see a familiar, caring face here—a team that is committed to being your partner through every stage of your pet’s life.  

Before an emergency happens, we encourage you to be prepared. Please take a moment to save our contact information in your phone.

• Phone: (520) 848-DOGG (3644)  
  
• Address: 12090 N Thornydale Rd, Ste 104, Marana, AZ 85658  
  
• Website & Online Appointments: You can request an appointment online through our website.  
  
• After-Hours Emergencies: If your pet experiences an emergency outside of our normal business hours, please contact The Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center at (520) 795-9955 for immediate assistance.  
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From our family at Tangerine Pet Clinic to yours, we wish you a wonderful, safe, and happy Labor Day. We are honored to be your partner in your pet’s health.