How to Celebrate New Year's Eve with Your Pets

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Are you ready to say goodbye to 2014 and welcome the New Year?  If you are hosting a New Year's Eve party at your home with friends and family this year, here are a few tips to help make sure your celebration is safe and enjoyable for your pets, too.

Pet-Friendly New Year's Eve Tips:

• Provide Identification - Fireworks and loud noises can be stressful for pets.  Identification tags or microchips can help identify your pet in the unfortunate event they become lost amid the commotion.
• Keep Alcohol Out-of-Reach - If you will be toasting with champagne at midnight, make sure that the glasses and bottles are away from any pets who may be able to reach them.  Be sure to clean up any spills right away too!
• Provide a Safe Place - Make sure that your pet has a safe place to get away from the commotion of your New Year's Eve celebration.  This will help reduce stress if your pet becomes overwhelmed.

Check out this article for more tips on how to celebrate a pet-friendly New Year's Eve.

If you have any questions about how to care for your pets in the New Year, contact our office.  Our veterinarians are happy to help you with all of your pet's health needs.

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New Years Resolutions for Your Pet

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Have you thought about your New Year's resolutions?  There is no better time to commit to improving your pet care than the new year.  Here are a few resolutions that will help keep your pet healthy through 2015!

Resolutions for Pets:

• Measure Pet Food - It's easy to overfeed your pets.  Use an 8-ounce measuring cup to help make sure that your pet isn't taking in more calories than they need.
• Try a New Activity - Incorporate your pet into your exercise routine.  This it's a great way to bond and its a great way to make sure that you and your pet stay healthy.
• Visit the Vet - Yearly examinations are an important part of making sure that your pet is happy and healthy year-round.  During a visit, we can help address any medical conditions early on.
• Groom Your Pet - Brushing your pet doesn't just help them look nice.  It also removes excess fur from the coat and distributes healthy oils from the skin to the fur. 
• Brush Their Teeth - Does your pet have smelly breath?  Regular cleanings are a great way to keep your pet's teeth in good shape long into their senior years.  Use a small pet-friendly toothbrush to prevent plaque buildup.

Check out this article for more ideas for pet resolutions!

If you have any questions about how to care for your pets in the New Year, contact our office.  Our veterinarians are happy to help you with all of your pet's health needs.

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How to Cat-Proof Your Christmas Tree

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

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Are your holiday decorations cat-proof?  Sparkling decorations can attract your pets attention.  Here are a few tips to help you keep your Christmas tree in tact through the holidays.

Christmas Tree Tips:

• Create a Cat Tree - Make your cat a tree of his or her own!  Make sure that it's is secured down with twine to prevent it from toppling.  Use cat-friendly decorations like catnip mice, kitty treats or soft cat toys.
• Avoid Fertilizer - If you have a live tree, don't add fertilizer or preservatives to the water at your tree base.  If your pet drinks this water, they could get sick!
• Add Citrus Scents - Scents like orange or lemon are off-putting to cats.  Vicks menthol is also a good repellent that will keep your pet away from the tree.
• Use Double-Sided Tape - Certain cat training products like Sticky Paws are available in large sheets and strips.  You can apply this tape to your carpet beneath the tree to keep your pet out of danger.

Check out this article for more tips on how to keep your pets safe through the holidays.  As always, if you have any questions about how to care for your pets, contact our office.  Our veterinarians are happy to help you with all of your pet's health needs.

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Why Do Veterinarians use a Treatment Room?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

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Ever wonder why veterinarians need to take your pet to the back?  

We know it can upsetting to have your pet leave your side, but treatment rooms are an important part of every animal hospital.  Here are a few reasons why it's so important to bring your pet to the back for treatment.

Benefits to Your Pet:

• Calmer Care - Despite what you may think, pets are actually calmer when their not around their owners.  This makes it easier for veterinarians to care for your pet quickly and efficiently.
• Reduced Stress - Veterinary professions love animals and want to make sure that the procedure causes your pet as little stress as possible.  In the back, pets are always handled with respect and care, but it is easier to complete the procedure.
• Better Environment - In the back, veterinarians have better lighting, tables, and equipment.  This means that your pet is getting the care that they need!

Check out this great article for more information on understanding your vet visit.  If you have any questions, we are happy to answer them!

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Giving a Pet as a Holiday Gift

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Thinking of giving a pet as a gift this holiday season?  While pets can be rewarding, you also want to make sure the recipient is prepared!  Before jumping to a decision, there are a few things you should consider.

Things to Consider:

• Picking the Right Species - Depending on where the recipient of the gift lives, their physical limitations, and whether or not they own other pets plays a role in what type of pet is best for them.
• Don't Make It a Surprise - Pets are a great addition to your family.  However, not everyone is ready to commit to the amount of time, energy and money pets require.  While a surprise is more festive, you need to make sure the recipient is ready.
• Let the Receiver Choose - Let your gift recipient choose their pet.  Picking what pet they want can be just as rewarding as finding a surprise under the tree.  This makes for an exciting gift and some anticipation!

Check out this article for more tips and things to consider before giving a pet as a gift this holiday season.  If you are thinking of giving a pet, bring him or her into our office for a checkup!  We can help make sure that your new pet is healthy and up-to-date on all vaccines.

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Canine Leptospirosis in New York City

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Did you know that Leptospirosis is a disease than can affect people and their pets?  This bacterial infection can affect affect pets who come into contact with contaminated water.  Here are a few of the most common symptoms experienced by pets in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island areas.

Common Symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Anorexia
• Icterus
• Lethargy
• Diarrhea
• Polyuria/polydipsia
• Liver failture

If you notice that your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms, bring them in to one of our hospitals.  The veterinary staff at Paws and Claws Animal Hospital, The Cat Hospital, and 5th Avenue Cat Clinic can help you determine whether your pet has Canine Leptospirosis or another illness.  We can also help you prevent Leptospirosis by making sure that your pet is vaccinated against the disease.

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How to Celebrate a Pet-Friendly Holiday Season

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Will you be decorating your home for the holidays?  Make sure that your festive decorations are pet-friendly!  Here are a few holiday pet hazards to avoid.

Holiday Hazards:

• Tinsel - Sparkly tinsel and ribbons can attract your pet.  If you pet ingests these colorful decorations, they can get stuck in their digestive tract and may need surgery.  Keep these decorations out-of-reach of your pet.
• Mistletoe - Mistletoe is a common holiday decoration.  However, it can be toxic to pets.  If you want to decorate your home with mistletoe, just make sure it's in a place your pet can't reach it.
• Poinsettias - This holiday plant is also toxic to your pets when eaten.  
• Holiday Candles - Keep any candles high enough up where your pet cannot accidentally knock them over.
• Leftovers - It can be difficult to avoid giving your pet holiday left overs.  However, certain holiday foods can leave them with an upset stomach.  Be sure to avoid toxic ingredients like chocolate and other sweets!
• Christmas Tree - Do you have a live Christmas tree?  Make sure to not add fertilizer to the tree water.  If your cat or dog drinks the water, it can upset their stomach.  You should also make sure that glass ornaments are placed high where your cat cannot reach or break them.

For more tips on how to celebrate a pet-friendly holiday season, check out this article.  Remember to contact our office with any questions you have through the holidays.

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Kitten Adoption Tips for National Kitten Day

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

It's National Kitten Day!  If you plan on adopting a kitten today, here are a few tips to help make sure that your new pet is happy and well-adjusted in your home.

Kitten Care Tips:

• Let Them Stay with Their Mother - It's better to adopt a kitten 10 to 12 weeks after they are born.  These extra weeks spent with the mother ans siblings will help your new kitten learn acceptable behavior.  When kittens are separated too early, they may be afraid and run away from interaction.
• Make Your Home Comfortable - Special kitten foods help make sure your new pet is getting all of their nutritional requirements.  Also make sure that your kitten feels warm and secure.  Make sure that their litter box is in a corner or secluded spot when you train them.
• Be Conscious of Other Pets - Make sure that all of your current pets are up-to-date on their vaccinations and are disease-free.  If you own another cat, give them extra attention to ease anxiety.  If your kitten feels comfortable, allow them to meet.  If you own a dog, make sure your dog is leashed when you introduce him or her to your new kitten.
• Bring Your Kitten to Us - You should bring your kitten to the vet within a day or two of his arrival.  Your new kitten needs to be checked for ear mites, fleas, and worms.  After six to seven weeks, your cat needs a few feline vaccines.

For more tips on how to help you new kitten feel comfortable and at home, read this article from Animal Planet.  Remember to contact our office with any questions you have about your new pet.  We're happy to help!

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Travel Safely During the Holidays

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Will you be making plans to travel with your pets this holiday season?  Here are a few tips to help make traveling safer for you and your pet.

Travel Safety Tips:

• Make Arrangements - Make sure that the family you are visiting is ok with your pet coming over while you visit.  If they don't have a place for your pet to stay, consider contacting our office to learn about our boarding services.  We even offer feline-only boarding so that your cat is comfortable while you're away!
• Bring Necessary Documents - If you bring your pet with you across state lines, bring a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection.  You need to get this within 10 days of travel.  Bring your pet to our office for a quick exam and we will make sure that they are up-to-date on all vaccinations.
• Provide Identification Tags - Place a collar and ID tag on your pet before you leave the house. You can also microchip your pet to provide permanent identification - just make sure all of your information is up-to-date!
• Make Frequent Stops - If you plan on traveling for long distances, make frequent stops along the way.  This will give your dog plenty of time to stretch their legs and get some mental stimulation.

Read more about how to make traveling with your pets safe during the holiday season on the American Medical Veterinary Association (AMVA) website.  If you have any questions about how to keep your pet safe this holiday season, contact our office.

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Can Your Pets Eat Thanksgiving Leftovers?

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Is your home full of Thanksgiving leftovers?  Here are a few tips to help you determine what you should and shouldn't be sharing with your pet!

Thanksgiving Leftovers:

• Turkey - Turkey can be a great lean protein to share with your pet.  Just make sure that you remove any excess skin or fat.  Never feed your pet anything with a bone.
• Mashed Potatoes - As long as your potatoes don't contain cheese, sour cream, butter, onions, or gravy, they can be a great vegetable to share with your pet!  
• Cranberry Sauce - It's ok for pets to eat cranberry sauce, just keep an eye on the amount of sugar in it.  It's safe to give your pets a very small serving.
• Macaroni and Cheese - If you know that your pet can handle dairy, it safe to share this leftover.  However, if you aren't sure how your pet handles dairy, just give them plain macaroni.  Pets can develop lactose intolerance as they age.
• Green Beans - Fresh vegetables are a great addition to your pet's diet.

While these foods are safe for your pet to eat, you want to be careful when making any changes to your pet's diet.  Giving your pet too many leftovers may cause an upset stomach or cause weight gain.  If you have any questions about what your pet can or cannot eat, contact our office for more information.

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Celebrating a Pet-Friendly Thanksgiving

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Many families and friends will be gathering this week to give thanks.  Before the Thanksgiving festivities, here are a few tips to help your pet enjoy a safe and happy holiday too!

Pet Safety Tips:

• Maintain Diet - Too many changes to your pet's diet can cause an upset stomach.  Make sure that you stick to your pet's regular meal and exercise schedule.
• Avoid Toxic Foods - Chocolate, grapes and raisins are actually toxic to your pet.  Keep these foods out of reach so that your pet stays healthy and safe.
• Keep Wrappers Away - Aluminum foil and wax paper may smell like food to your pet, but they can cause intestinal obstruction if they are ingested.  Make sure to dispose of these items in a secure garbage.
• Provide Plenty of Water - Make sure your pets have plenty of fresh water throughout the day.  Thanksgiving is a busy day and unknowing family members may hit into the water bowl.  Refill it frequently to make sure that your pet stays hydrated.
• Allow for Quiet Time - Your pet should have a quiet place to hide during the Thanksgiving festivities.  Keep an eye on them to make sure they don't become stressed over the holiday.

Read more about how to celebrate Thanksgiving safely here.  If you have any questions about how to keep your pet safe this holiday season, contact our office.

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November is National Pet Cancer Awareness Month

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Early detection is key to treating cancer.  That's why we stress the importance of bringing your pet to our office for regular exams!  Having your cat or dog checked regularly will help ensure that they are living a long, happy, and healthy life!  

Warning Signs to Lookout For:

Swelling

Sores That Do Not Heal

Weight Loss

Difficulty Eating

Hesitation to Exercise

Difficulty Breathing

Bleeding or Discharge

Fortunately, there are ways to prevent and treat cancer that is detected early on.  Maintaining a healthy diet, giving your pet plenty of exercise, and spaying or neutering your cat or dog can go a long way towards keeping your pet healthy.  Bring your pet into our office for an annual exam to identify any problems early on.

We are offering FREE urinalysis with complete blood work for National Pet Cancer Awareness Month.  Just present this coupon to take advantage!

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Visit Our YouTube Channel!

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Have you visited our YouTube channel recently?  Watch our videos to learn more about our practices, watch client education seminars, and learn about the technologies we use at Bregman Vet Group!

Local Rescue Cat Adoption on 5th Avenue

Feline-Only Vet Practices on 

Long Island and Brooklyn

Visit our YouTube Channel Here: http://goo.gl/Ekd2N2

You can also visit one of our convenient locations with your pet below:

Long Island: 
The Cat Hospital - 2 Hillside Avenue, Suite E in Williston Park

Brooklyn: 
Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital - 99 North 9th Street in Brooklyn 
5th Avenue Cat Clinic - 225 5th Avenue in Brooklyn 

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Helping Your Pet Manage Cataracts

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Do your pet's eyes look cloudy or gray?  While it's normal for eyes to become cloudy with age, this symptom can also be a sign of cataracts.  

Here are a few tips to help preserve your pet's vision:

• Check your pet's eyes regularly.
• Bring your pet to our office if you notice his eyes look cloudy or gray.
• Bring your pet in if you suspect they are having troubled vision
• Be conscious of any eye trauma

Cataracts are an opacity in the lens of the eye that causes blurry vision.  Diabetes, eye trauma and old age are a few of the most common reasons why your pet may have cataracts.  While it is unlikely that they will disturb your pet's vision, it's important to monitor their development in order to keep your pet happy and healthy.  

Read more about how you can help manage cataracts in cats and dogs.  You can also contact our office to learn more.   

If you think that your pet may have cataracts, it's important that you schedule a visit to the vet.  If left untreated, cataracts can lead to glaucoma, inflammation, and in severe cases, blindness.  Our experienced veterinarians can diagnose whether or not your pet has a cataract or another condition that causes cloudy eyes.

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How to Manage Osteoarthritis in Pets

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

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Did you know that pets can get arthritis too?  Both dogs and cats can suffer from joint inflammation due to injury, trauma, or normal aging.  Regardless of the cause, here are a few signs to lookout for in your pet.

Signs of Osteoarthritis:

• Limping
• Posture Changes
• Reluctance to Move
• Difficulty Jumping
• Slipping/Falling
• Behavior Changes

Fortunately, there are several therapeutic treatments available to help your pet manage osteoarthritis.  In addition to providing medication, we also offer therapeutic laser therapy that accelerates the body's natural healing process.  If your pet is suffering from osteoarthritis, contact one of our offices.  We can help you determine the best course of action for your pet!

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Can Your Pet Get the Flu?

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Cooler weather means that it's almost time for flu season.  Did you know that cats and dogs can get the flu too?  

While your pet is susceptible to a different strain of the virus, many of the symptoms are similar.  Here are a few of the symptoms to lookout for in your pet.

Flu Symptoms:

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Loss of Appetite
• Runny Nose
• Low Fever

If you think your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms, bring him or her into our office.  We can help you determine the reason behind why your pet isn't feeling well.  If your pet does have the flu, make sure that they are getting plenty of rest and fluids.  

Read more about the signs and symptoms of the flu here.  You can also contact our office to learn more.   Our experienced veterinarians can help you determine whether or not the flu vaccine is the right choice for your pet.

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How to Identify the Symptoms of an Ear Infection

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

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Does your dog rub his ears or tilt his head?  He might have an ear infection.  Fortunately, ear infections are often simple to treat.  Be on the lookout for these signs and contact our office if you notice your pet is exhibiting any strange symptoms.

Common Symptoms:

• Discharge
• Odor
• Swelling
• Hair loss around the ear
• Head tilting
• Loss of balance
• Rubbing ear on floor

Check out this article for more information on ear infections and the symptoms to be on the lookout for.  

If you have any questions about how you can improve your dogs diet or you think that your pet might be suffering from an ear infection, call our office!  Our experienced veterinarians can help you find a healthy solution for your pet.

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Halloween Safety Hazards for Pets

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Are you ready to celebrate Halloween?  Celebrate safely by avoiding these top pet safety hazards!

Halloween Hazards:

• Candy Wrappers - Be sure to dispose of candy wrappers after you eat your sweets.  Pets may unknowingly ingest wrappers.  Keep an eye on your pets while eating candy this Halloween.  Candy and candy wrappers are the number one reason pets take an emergency trip to the vet!
• Chocolate - Chocolate contains ingredients that can harm your pet.  Chocolate poisoning signs include vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, tremors, seizures, and a racing heart.  If your pet exhibits any of these signs, contact our office immediately.
• Pumpkins - This festive decoration is relatively nontoxic, but if your pet does chew on a carved pumpkin, they may have an upset stomach.  Jack-o-lanterns pose an additional threat.  Keep curious kittens and puppies away from lit candle flames.
• Costumes - Have your pet try on the costume first.  Check to make sure that they can move easily, including wagging their tail!  You should also keep allergies in mind.  If you notice your pet starts scratching or is unhappy, take the costume off.
• Open Doors - Chances are the door will be opening and closing a lot as trick-or-treaters come to your home.  Make sure your pets are in a safe place where they can't dart outside into the dark.

Check out this article for more information on how to avoid these Halloween hazards and celebrate safely with your pets.  As always, you can contact our office if you have any questions about your pet's health!

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Celebrate National Cat Day with 10% Off Vaccinations!

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Is your cat due for a vaccination?  Vaccines are an important way to keep your pet happy and healthy by protecting them against life-threatening diseases.  

In honor of National Cat Day this Wednesday, we will be offering 10% off vaccinations all week long!  Here are a few of the vaccines your cat may need.

Important Feline Vaccinations:

• Panleukopenia (FPV) - New kittens should be given an FPV shot between 6 and 8 weeks of age.  After the initial series of shots, they can receive a booster at 1 or 2 years of age.
• Feline Viral Respiratory Disease Complex - Kittens can be vaccinated as early as 6 weeks of age and adult cats should receive two initial doses.  Both kittens and adult cats should receive a booster after one year and then every three years afterwards.
• Rabies - The rabies vaccine is mandatory for all pet owners in NY.  Most rabies vaccines last for one or three years.  It is important that cats receive the vaccine when necessary.

Depending on your cat's lifestyle and medical history, we can help you make the right vaccine choices.  Our professional veterinary staff will provide you with information on which vaccines are appropriate for your pet.  

Contact our office for 10% off vaccinations the week of the 29th only! 

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How To Handle Aggression Between Your Cats

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

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Bringing home a new cat is an exciting time for pet owners.  Unfortunately, your pet at home might not feel the same way.  Cats can be territorial and it's not uncommon for cats to have a hard time getting along.

Managing Cat Aggression:

• Stop Fighting Early On - Make it clear that fighting is a problem.  The more often cats fight, the worse the problem will become overtime.  Stop the fighting by making a loud noise or squirting the cats with water.
• Avoid Touching Them - While your instinct might be to physically keep the cats apart when they are fighting, we don't want you to become scratched or bitten.
• Don't Punish Them - Punishment could insight further aggression and make the problem worse.
• Don't Add Another Pet - Some cats are more willing to share a home with multiple cats who share the same territory.  However, this can also increase the likelihood that some of your cats might not get along with each other.  It is better to address the issue with your two cats before adding others.

If you notice aggression between your cats, contact our office.  Your pet may experience aggression if they aren't feeling well.  Cats are very good at hiding symptoms of illness.  You can also check out this article for more information on how to manage behavioral aggression between cats. 

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Tips to Keep Your Cat Safe This Halloween

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

It's almost time for Halloween!  As you and your family get ready to celebrate with costumes and treats, don't forget to keep your pets in mind!  Here are a few Halloween safety tips to help make sure your cat enjoys a safe Halloween.

Cat Safety Tips:

• Keep Candy Out of Reach - Chocolate and other candies can be very dangerous to cats.  Xylitol, an artificial sweetener commonly found in candies and gum can also cause health problems.  If you suspect your pet has eaten anything toxic, contact our office immediately.
• Be Conscious of Decorations - Halloween decorations can be hazardous to cats.  Substitute real candles with artificial candles for a spooky effect that isn't dangerous if knocked over by your pet.
• Put Your Cat in a Safe Room - Your door may be opening and closing a lot as trick-or-treaters come to visit this Halloween.  Keep your cat in a separate room to make sure that he or she doesn't dart outside.
• Avoid Costumes - In general, cats do not usually like wearing costumes.  Don't force your cat into a costume unless you know they enjoy playing dress up

Check out this article for more information on how to celebrate Halloween safely with your cat.  As always, you can contact our office if you have any questions about your pet's health!

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