Bay County's warm climate and year-round mosquito activity make heartworm disease a serious threat to local dogs. This preventable condition affects hundreds of dogs in our area each year, yet many pet owners don't realize the importance of consistent prevention.

Heartworm disease is transmitted through mosquito bites. When an infected mosquito bites a dog, it deposits tiny heartworm larvae into the bloodstream. Over six to seven months, these larvae mature into foot-long worms that live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels, causing severe damage to vital organs.

Florida ranks among the highest states for heartworm prevalence due to our subtropical climate. Bay County veterinarians report seeing cases throughout the year, with peak transmission occurring during warmer months when mosquito populations surge.

Many dog owners mistakenly believe they can stop prevention during cooler months. However, Panama City's mild winters mean mosquitoes remain active year-round. A single missed dose can leave your dog vulnerable during a critical window.

Contact your local veterinarian to discuss heartworm prevention options and schedule a test for your dog. The small investment in prevention today can save thousands in treatment costs and protect your dog from a potentially fatal disease.

When people think about adopting a dog, they often picture a playful puppy. But local animal advocates in Panama City and across Bay County want you to know that senior dogs have just as much love to give — sometimes even more.

Senior dogs, typically classified as seven years or older, are frequently overlooked at shelters. Yet these mature companions offer unique benefits that make them ideal pets for many families. They come with established personalities, are often already house-trained, and are content with moderate exercise.

Perhaps the greatest gift a senior dog offers is gratitude. These dogs seem to understand they have been given a second chance and form deep bonds with their adopters. The Humane Society of Bay County and Emerald Coast Animal Rescue currently have several wonderful senior dogs available for adoption.

If you have room in your heart and home, consider visiting a local shelter to meet the senior dogs waiting for their forever families. You might just find your perfect companion has a little gray around the muzzle.

Looking to add a furry friend to your family? Bay County is home to several dedicated animal rescue organizations working tirelessly to find loving homes for dogs in need.

Bay County Animal Control at 2305 E 15th Street offers a variety of dogs, cats, and small animals ready for adoption. Call (850) 763-4381 to learn more.

Paws and Claws Animal Rescue focuses on saving animals from high-kill shelters, while Forgotten Coast Animal Rescue rehabilitates animals throughout the Panama City area.

The Humane Society of Bay County has served our community for years, and Alaqua Animal Refuge in Walton County is one of the largest no-kill shelters in the Southeast.

This weekend, consider visiting one of these local shelters. You might just find your new best friend waiting for you.

Salty Dog Day returns to Historic St. Andrews for its 10th anniversary on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 9 AM to 1 PM at Oaks by the Bay Park.

This playful community tradition features the highly anticipated Canine Mayor election, with nine adorable pups in the running and voter donations supporting pet welfare and neighborhood revitalization.

The mayoral winner will be announced at noon, with reigning pup mayor Ginger passing the ceremonial leash.

Market at St. Andrews fills the waterfront with fresh produce, crafts, and lively vendor stalls, while Operation Spay Bay offers pet services including a free rabies vaccine with exam.

All dogs must be leashed and cats crated for safety.

This milestone year highlights a decade of local pride, uniting residents and visitors for a joyful celebration benefiting St. Andrews’ pets and community spirit.

This weekend, animal shelters and rescue groups across Panama City are joining forces for Adopt-a-Pet Day, giving locals a chance to welcome a new furry family member.

Dogs, cats, and senior pets are just waiting to meet you at several events, including Bay County Animal Control, PetSmart, Heartland Rescue Ranch, and Pet Supplies Plus.

Adoption fees are waived or reduced in many cases, and all pets are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped.

Not ready to adopt? You can still help by fostering, volunteering, donating supplies, or spreading the word online.

Last year’s event found homes for more than 50 local pets, bringing joy to families throughout Bay County.

From playful kittens to gentle senior dogs, your future best friend could be waiting—don’t miss this heartfelt opportunity to save a life and enrich your own.

Adopt, don’t shop—Panama City’s pets need you.

Becky’s Furry Friends (BFF) Animal Rescue is making a lasting difference for dogs in Panama City, thanks to a foster-based approach and a passionate team of volunteers.

Rather than operating from a large facility, BFF rescues dogs from overcrowded shelters and tough situations, quickly placing them into local foster homes where they can relax, recover, and receive much-needed love.

This foster-first model helps each dog adapt, gain confidence, and truly show their personality, making adoption transitions smoother for both pets and their families.

The rescue thrives because of dedicated local volunteers—fosters, transporters, and supporters—who give their time and open their hearts.

Every adoption at BFF frees up a spot for another dog in need, building a powerful circle of compassion throughout the community.

Locals can help by fostering, volunteering, donating, or adopting to keep this life-saving mission going.

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan–Cortina delivered an unforgettable surprise when a Czechoslovakian wolfdog named Nazgul trotted onto the women’s cross-country ski course, instantly capturing the crowd’s hearts.

Spectators broke into laughter and cheers watching Nazgul confidently keep pace with Olympic athletes, his playful presence turning the competition into a moment of pure joy.

Officials confirmed he posed no danger—Nazgul had simply followed the excitement, unknowingly stealing the spotlight from the world’s top skiers.

Clips of his snowy dash went viral, making him a beloved “competitor” and reminding fans worldwide of dogs’ enduring spirit and charm.

Nazgul was safely reunited with his owner after his adventure, but his spontaneous Olympic run brought millions of smiles—and a reminder that, sometimes, the best moments are unplanned.

Historic St. Andrews is gearing up for the annual Doggie Caucus at Little Village on Sunday, March 1, from 1 to 4 p.m.

This community event spotlights the 2026 Dog Mayor candidates while supporting local pet welfare, all in a lighthearted setting beloved by residents.

Festivities will feature live music by The Ukes and invite attendees to join in with their own instruments for a unique open-jam session.

Guests can enjoy food and cocktail specials, relax in Little Village’s outdoor spaces, and experience the signature laid-back St. Andrews vibe.

Meet current Salty Dog Mayor Ginger, vote for new candidates, donate pet supplies, and connect with local rescue efforts.

Every vote and donation helps animals in need and celebrates Bay County’s strong pet-loving community.

This tail-wagging gathering promises a memorable start to the coming Salty Dog Day festivities.