How to Make Your Veterinary Visit Easier For You (And Your Pet)

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Veterinary checkups are an important part of preventative healthcare.  They give us the opportunity to catch health problems early on, and ensure that your pet is living the healthiest life that it can.

However, we know that your pets don't always want to make the trip to visit us.  The change in scenery can sometimes be overwhelming.  These tips will help make your next veterinary visit go smoothly!

Tips for a Smooth Vet Visit:

• Make Traveling Comfortable - Let your pet feel comfortable in their travel carrier.  Leave your carrier in your home and let your pet explore the area and feel comfortable inside of it. When you do travel in the car, your pet will know that it's in a space place.
• Bring Medical Records - If you haven't visited our office before, bring your medical records with you.  You can also have your previous vet send or fax the records over to our office.
• Know Medications Your Pet Needs- If your pet is taking any medications or supplements, know how often they take them and how much.  This will help ensure that your pet receives proper, consistent treatment moving forward.
• Ask Plenty of Questions - Don't be afraid to ask questions!  We're here to answer any questions that you have about your pet's health needs.  While you're int he office, get all of your questions out of the way -- no matter how strange you think they are.

The Cat Hospital and 5th Avenue Cat Clinic are both designed with your cat's needs in mind.  These cat-friendly veterinary hospitals provide your cat with a relaxing and comfortable place for their health care needs.  Without dogs and other animals around, your cat can receive the care it needs without anxiety.  

Contact one of our offices below to schedule your annual visit!

The Cat Hospital

877-228-4131

5th Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

718-782-8387

Don’t forget to connect with us on social media!

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

National Train Your Dog Month

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Although we get our pets with the best intentions, it's not always easy to train a new puppy.  Every dog has a different temperament.  You might find that your dog is hyperactive, aggressive, shy or even nervous from past experiences.

While behavioral issues can be frustrating, it's important that pet owners train their pets correctly, with long-term fixes rather than temporary solutions.

Here are a few dog training tips to help your puppy overcome a few of the most common behavior problems that pet parents face.

Dog Training Tips:

Watch Their Body Language

Get to know your dog and listen to his body language.  Don't push your pet to do something that he is not comfortable doing.  If your dog looks uneasy when meeting a new animal or person, don't force it.  Wait until a time where your new pet can meet your family and friends in a comfortable setting.

Keep Training Consistent

You want to make sure that you're consistent with the message that you're giving your pet.  Make sure that your whole family is on the same page with what you are telling you dog.  Inconsistencies can be confusing for your pet.

Have Realistic Expectations

Training your dog takes time.  Have realistic expectations about how long it will take your dog to learn new behaviors.  It can be hard to 

break habits (and instill new ones)!

Reward Your Pet

Using a treat to reinforce good behavior is great way to make your pet comfortable with adjusting their behavior.  Just make sure that you don't over do it!  Keep an eye on the calories you're giving your pet in between meals.

If you have any questions about your pet's behavior, contact one of our offices below.  We can help you correct your pet's behavioral issues and even recommend the right trainer for your puppy.

The Cat Hospital

877-228-4131

5th Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

718-782-8387

Q & A: Why Does My Cat Lick Me?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Dogs aren't the only pets that are prone to licking our faces.  You might find that your kitten licks your arm, toes, or even your hair!  

Why Do Cats Lick You?

• You're Part of the Family - Cats tend to lick their kittens with a tongue bath.  If your cat is licking you, he or she might consider you to be part of the family - offering nurturing care by cleaning you.
• They're Marking Territory - Licking is also a way to establish territory.  This is a way for your cat to mark with his or her scent.  Mother cats lick their kittens to establish ownership.  Licking is a form of creating this type of bond.
• They Can't Pet You - You like to pet your cat, but your cat can't pet you.  Instead, they might lick you to show affection.
• They're Stressed - If your kitten is anxious, they might begin to lick you.  Try to cuddle and pet your cat to reduce their stress levels.  Showing a little affection should ease the stress.

If you have any questions about your cat's behavior -- like why they might be licking you -- or their health, contact one of our offices.

Our cat-friendly hospitals are designed to provide your furry friend with a comfortable and relaxing veterinary visit.  Contact one of our offices below to set up an appointment for your cat:

The Cat Hospital

877-228-4131

5th Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

718-782-8387

Don’t forget to connect with us on social media!

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

How to Keep Pets Healthy Through Winter Storms

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

It has been a cold week.  Now that we have our first real winter storm on it's way this weekend,  pet owners should make sure that they are prepared.  It's important that we know how to keep our pets safe and warm!

These tips will help keep your pets healthy on cold days and keep them protected against winter dangers.  

Cold Weather Safety Tips:

Wipe Down Their Paws

If your pet will be spending any time outdoors this winter, be sure to check their paws when they come back inside.  They may pick up deicers or antifreeze on the bottom of their feet.  Wiping down their paws will help keep your pet from licking these toxic chemicals when they come back indoors.

Keep Pets Inside

Even outdoor pets should come inside on particularly cold days.  Although longer-haired dog breeds are more tolerant of colder weather, pets shouldn't be left outside for long periods of time in below-freezing weather.

Know Their Limits

Cold tolerance varies from pet to pet.  Be aware of your dog or cat's cold tolerance.  While long-haired, thick-coated dogs tend to be more cold tolerant, they are still at risk in cold weather.  Keep your pet's coat, health issues (diabetes, kidney disease, etc.), and age in mind when considering their temperature limits.

Stock Up on Supplies

If you know that a snow storm is coming, don't forget about your pets!  Make sure that you have enough food, water and medicine to get through the snow storm.

Schedule a Wellness Exam

Many health problems, like arthritis, can be exacerbated by colder weather.  Pet owners should schedule preventative wellness exams once a year.  Doing so in the winter is a good way to make sure that your pet is as healthy as possible for the cold weather.

If you have any questions about how to keep your pets safe and healthy and this winter, contact one of our offices below:

The Cat Hospital

877-228-4131

5th Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

718-782-8387

Don’t forget to connect with us on social media!

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

Celebrate National Dress Up Your Pet Day

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

It's National Dress Up Your Pet Day!  

Will you be celebrating with your furry friends?  Before you dress up your pets - remember that not all pets like to dress up.  Here are a few things to keep in mind before dressing up your pet today.

Dress Up Safety Tips:

• Keep Identification Visible - Make sure that your dog or cat's identification tags are still secure and visible when dressing up your pet.  In the unfortunate even that they get loose, you'll still be able to identify your pet with these tags.
• Give Them Full Range of Motion - Make sure that your costume isn't restrictive.  Your pet should be able to move freely in their costume.  This means that they are able to eat, drink, and go to the bathroom without any difficulty.
• Look Out for Signs of Discomfort - Keep an eye on your pet while they are dressed up.  If you notice that they become uncomfortable or irritable, it's time to take the costume off.  

However, if your pet doesn't mind dressing up, a few extra layers could be a great way to stay warm on a cold day!  Dress up is also a great way to make your pet the center of attention and show them some extra love.  

Just remember, every pet is different.  Your pets safety always comes first!

If you have any questions about your pets health, remember that you can always contact one of our Brooklyn or Long Island offices below:

The Cat Hospital

877-228-4131

5th Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

718-782-8387

Don’t forget to connect with us on social media!

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

Celebrate National Walk Your Dog Month (Even Though It's Cold Out)

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

While the cold winter month of January might seem like an inopportune time for an outdoor walk, it's important to provide your pup with exercise year-round!  This January, we remind pet owners that it's important to brave the winter weather (safely) and give your pets the exercise and fresh air they need.

These tips will help you overcome the challenge of winter walks - so that your pets can stay healthy through the cold months to come.

Winter Dog Walking Tips:

• Keep Their Nails Trim - Trimming your pup's nails is an important part of their health care.  If their nails are too long, they'll have a hard time walking on the ground (especially if it's icy). 
• Protect Their Paws - If it's cold outside for you, it's cold outside for your pet, too.  Protect their feet from the cold, snow, ice and salt.  You can even put dog boots on your pet!  Just remember to always wipe down your pet's feet when you come back indoors.  Many de-icing salts are dangerous if ingested when your dog licks their feet.
• Break the Pulling Habit - You don't want your dog to pull you while you're on an outdoor walk.  Your dog might unknowingly pull you onto ice, risking a slip and fall.  Train your dog to stay by your side, rather than pull at the leash.
• Keep Your Pet's Breed In Mind - While some dogs love the cold, others don't have the same coat.  Keep your dog's breed in mind and whether or not they have hair that will keep them warm on a cold day.

Visit one of our veterinary practices below if you have an questions about how to safely walk your dog this winter, or if you have any questions about how you 

can improve your pet's overall health and wellness.

The Cat Hospital

877-228-4131

5th Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

718-782-8387

How to Bathe Your Cat

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

If you've ever tried to bathe your cat in the tub, you've most likely found him sprinting for the door instead.

While cats are naturally good at cleaning themselves, there are times when it's necessary to give your cat a helping hand.  These steps will help make the process a little easier and keep your cat from jumping out of the bath and bolting for the door.

Why should you bother?
You might wonder why you need to bother bathing your cat.  While cats are diligent groomers by nature, there are times when they may groom less than they should.  If your cat is overweight, is sick, or is suffering from osteoarthritis, it might find that grooming is too painful.  This is where you can step in as a pet parent and help you cat stay clean and healthy.

How to Bathe Your Cat:

1. First, trim your cat's toenails.  This step is a precaution for yourself.  If your cat does scratch you, at least their nails will be nice and short.  If you're not sure how to properly care for your cat's nails. Check out this article or visit our practice and we can help!

2. Put a non-slip mat in your bathtub.  If you plan on bathing your cat in the sink, a wet towel will also do the trick.

3. Run the tap water so that it as time to get warm before you place your cat in the tub or sink.  Have pet shampoo, a helper and a large cup or pitcher nearby.

4.  Carefully put your cat into the tub or sink.  Then slowly wet your cat down.  Avoid getting your cat's head wet.

5.  Rub your cat with diluted pet shampoo.  Shampoo their belly, legs, and body, but skip your cat's face and head.

6.  Rinse off the shampoo very gently, but be thorough.  Remaining shampoo can irritate your pet's skin (even whn it's diluted).  Use a wet wash cloth to wipe your cat's face and chin.

7.  Wipe down your pet to dry the body by gently squeezing and wiping the body, tail and legs.  You can them grab a towel and dry your cat off.

After you have completed these steps, you have successfully mad it through the process of bathing your cat.  If you have trouble, give us a call and we can help you get your cat feeling fresh and clean.

Take a look at this article for more information on why and how you should bathe your cat.  You should also contact our office if you have any questions about how to better your cat's health and hygiene.  Our cat-friendly hospital provide a more relaxing experience for your cat while we care for their health.

Visit one of our veterinary practices below and we can help you figure out how to get your pet to smell their best (and stay healthy in the process):

Reunion Veterinary Hospital
(863)588-4200

Veterinary Hospital of Celebration
(407)545-7789

Don’t forget to connect with us on social media!

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

What Causes a Smelly Pet?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

We love our pets, but any pet owner knows that despite best efforts to keep them clean - sometimes our furry friends can stink!  

There are a few reasons why your pet may smell a little funky.  Here are a few possible causes and what you can do to help them smell their best.

Possible Causes:

They Have An Ear Infection - Ear infections are common in dogs and cats.  Whether they are bacterial or fungal, ear infections are one of the biggest culprits of a smelly pet.  If your pet has an ear infection, you may notice that they shake their head in an effort to find relief.  If you think that your pet is suffering from an ear infection, schedule a visit at one of our practice and we can provide your pet with the appropriate medication for the type of infection that they have.

They Have a Dental Disease - While we brush our teeth every day, our pets don't.  That's why pets are so prone to dental diseases.  If you notice that your pet has bad breath, this is a sign that tartar is building up on their teeth, causing an infection.  Annual dental cleanings and regular tooth brushing habits at home will help keep your pet's mouth healthy.

They Have a Skin Problem - Dogs and cats who suffer from allergies are prone to chronic skin infections.  This can lead to greasy coats and crusty skin - both of which can cause your pet to smell.  If you know that your pet is suffering from a skin condition, we can provide antibiotics and antifungals to help keep your pet's fur smelling fresh.

They're Suffering from Diarrea - Of course, excessive gas and diarrhea can be smelly.  This is often a sign of an underlying gastrointestinal disease.  Your pet may also express their anal sac (either accidentally or on purpose).  If your pet's anal sacs are expressed frequently, it's time to schedule a visit to see what's wrong.

Do you have any questions about why your pet may be smelling stinky?  

Visit one of our veterinary practices below and we can help you figure out how to get your pet to smell their best (and stay healthy in the process).

The Cat Hospital

877-228-4131

5th Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

718-782-8387

Don’t forget to connect with us on social media!

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest