(BPT) - Summertime allows you to spend more time outside in the sun, enjoying breezy days and a vacation state of mind. But before you get caught up reveling in all that nice weather, it's important to keep your furry friends in mind. For curious pets, warm temperatures and increased outdoor time can be a recipe for trouble.

(BPT) - Sparrows to doves, mockingbirds to magpies, every bird that visits your backyard this season will bring its unique brand of delight. Yet when a particularly colorful species shows up, you can't help but feel a special thrill at the beauty of their plumage and song. You can take steps to draw the most colorful species to your feeder and fill your backyard with their vibrant, bright displays throughout the season.

Summer travel plans with Fido? Be prepared with 5 expert tips.

(BPT) - If you think ticks are a concern only in the deep woods, it's time to think again. Partially due to migrating deer populations, ticks are now abundant in suburban and city backyards - and they're spreading disease. In fact, an estimated 300,000 Americans are infected with Lyme disease each year, according to estimates from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as other types of diseases. Read more...