Harlingen Health Department

09/04/2026

🌭🔥 Labor Day weekend is here! 🇺🇸

Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, enjoying a picnic, or gathering with family and friends, a little food safety goes a long way! 🥗🍔

Keep hot foods hot, cold foods cold, wash your hands, use a meat thermometer, and don’t forget to refrigerate those leftovers! 🧊🌡️

Swipe through for 6 simple tips to help keep your Labor Day BBQ safe and enjoyable for everyone. ❤️

Have a safe, happy, and delicious Labor Day weekend, Harlingen! 🇺🇸☀️

09/03/2026

🚨 KEEP IT OUT OF REACH! 🏡🐾

Many everyday household products can be dangerous if they’re accidentally swallowed or handled by children or pets. From cleaning supplies and medications to garage and garden products, make sure potentially harmful items are stored safely and out of reach.

🔒 A few extra seconds to put something away can help prevent an emergency. Let’s keep our homes safe for both our little ones and our furry family members! ❤️

09/02/2026

Good food safety habits can help keep foodborne illness off the menu!

Protect yourself and your family by washing your hands, keeping raw foods separate, cooking foods thoroughly, and refrigerating leftovers promptly.

Clean. Separate. Cook. Chill. Simple steps can make a big difference.

09/01/2026

Keep your family and furry friends safe! 🐾 Rabies is a fatal but entirely preventable disease that affects both humans and pets.

Whether you are a pet owner or a community member enjoying the outdoors, knowing the facts can save lives. Swipe through our graphics to learn:

🛡️ What rabies is and how it spreads
🚫 How to protect yourself and your loved ones
🏥 What steps to take if you or your pet are exposed

Remember: The best defense is prevention. Ensure your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations and always avoid contact with stray or wild animals.

If you spot an animal displaying unusual behavior in our community, please contact Animal Control immediately. Let's work together to keep everyone safe and healthy! 🐕🐈

09/01/2026

🐶🍼 Our puppies need us! ❤️

🐶🍼 WE DESPERATELY NEED PUPPY FOOD! 🍼🐶

Our dry puppy food supply is running extremely low, and we’re asking our amazing community for help. ❤️

We currently have little mouths depending on us every single day, and keeping their bellies full is one of the most important parts of keeping them healthy, happy, and growing strong.

Any brand, any size — every single donation helps!

Whether it’s one small bag or several, your donation makes a HUGE difference and goes directly toward feeding puppies in our care.
If you’re able to donate, we would be incredibly grateful. Stop by the shelter and we will gladly open our doors. & if you can’t donate right now, please share this post so we can reach someone who can! Again, we really appreciate every single one of you for your support!🙏

Harlingen Animal Shelter
📍1106 Markowsky Ave, Harlingen TX 78550

08/31/2026

Don’t Forget Your Pets When Preparing for an Emergency!

As you prepare yourself and your family for an emergency, remember to prepare for your pets, too! They depend on us to have the supplies they need to stay safe and comfortable.

Pet emergency kit essentials:
1. At least 3 days of food and water, with portable bowls
2. Medications and a basic pet first-aid kit
3. Medical records, vaccination information, and your veterinarian’s contact information
4. Updated ID tags and a recent photo of your pet
5. A sturdy leash, collar, harness, and carrier or crate
6. A familiar blanket or toy for comfort
7. Waste bags, litter, and a litter box for cats, and cleaning supplies

Make sure every member of your family—including your furry ones—is part of your emergency plan!

For more helpful emergency preparedness resources, guides, and flyers, visit Ready.gov

08/31/2026

🇺🇸 Next week: Monday, September 7, 2026, all non-emergency offices will be closed, in Observance of Labor Day.

08/28/2026

🦟 Protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes!

Mosquitoes aren’t just a nuisance—they can spread diseases, which is why taking a few simple precautions can make a big difference. Whether you’re spending time outdoors or enjoying the comfort of your home, remember to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Here are a few ways to stay mosquito-safe:
🌿 Use insect repellent and always follow the label instructions.
👕 Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs when possible.
👶 Use mosquito netting over strollers and baby carriers.
🪟 Keep window and door screens in good condition.
💧 Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can lay their eggs.

Small steps can help keep mosquitoes away and your family protected. 🦟💙

Stay safe, stay protected, and help us keep Harlingen mosquito-aware!

08/26/2026

🐾❤️ Happy National Dog Day! ❤️🐾

Today we celebrate the loyal companions who fill our lives with unconditional love, endless tail wags, and plenty of joy. 🐶✨

Give your pup an extra belly rub, a favorite treat, and a whole lot of love today! 🥰🐾

Happy National Dog Day from Harlingen Animal Care Services! 🐕❤️

08/26/2026

🐾 Don’t miss out! Take advantage of this amazing opportunity! 🐶💙✨