Tuesday, February 23, 2016

Dog Biscuit Recipes for Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Happy Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day!

Although nobody seems to know the origins of this holiday, it's a great way to celebrate with your pet by making healthy treats for the occasion.  Here are a few DIY dog biscuit recipes you might want to try tonight.

Dog Biscuit Recipes:

Spinach, Carrot and Zucchini Dog Treats
Dog treats are notorious for having tons of extra calories.  This recipe is a little bit healthier than a biscuit you would buy in the store!

Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.  In a bowl, beat 1 cup pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup peanut butter, and 2 large eggs on medium high.  Then, you can gradually add 1/2 cup of old fashioned oats, and 2.5 cups of flour at a low speed.  Lastly, add 1/4 cup flour until the dough is no longer sticky.  Add 1 pealed carrot, 1 shredded zucchini, and 1 cup of baby spinach, beating until mixed.

On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough and use a rolling pin to roll into a 1/4 thick sheet.  Use your favorite cookie cutter shapes to cut out your biscuits and place them into the oven.  Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Visit this website for the complete recipe.

Blueberry Dog Biscuits
This recipe for blueberry dog biscuits has flax and blueberries with vitamins that are good for your growing pup.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.  In a large bowl, mix 1.5 cups oat flour, 2.5 cups quinoa flour, .75 cup flax meal, .5 cup frozen, unsweetened blueberries, .25 cup olive oil and one large egg.  Mix to form a dough and roll out the mixture between two sheets of plastic wrap.  Use a cookie cutter to make your biscuits.  Space biscuits about 1 inch apart and bake for 30 minutes, until brown.

View the complete Martha Stewart recipe here.

Peanut Butter Banana Dog Treats
Coconut oil has been shown to improve metabolism and overall wellness - so why not include some in your dog's next treat?

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and combine 3 cups of old fashioned oats, 2 ripe bananas, 1/4 cup of peanut butter and 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a bowl.  On a lightly floured surface, knead your dough mixture.  Use a rolling pin to roll the dough and cut the biscuits into your shape of choice.  Place in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are brown.

Visit this website for the complete recipe.

If you have any questions about your pet or your pet's health, don't hesitate to contact one of our offices!  We are here to answer all of the questions you have!


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!

Monday, February 22, 2016

Why Your Pet Needs an Annual Veterinary Exam

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

When was the last time your pet came into one of our offices?  

Annual vet check-ups are an essential part of your pet's health and wellness.   Although your pet may not be feeling ill, an annual exam will help catch any health problems early on, as well as prevent problems from affecting your pet. 

What should you cover in your pet's annual veterinary exam?

Physical Exam
During your pet's physical exam, we will check your pet's temperature.  The condition of their skin and coat is also a good indicator 
of your pet's health and diet. 

Fleas & Ticks
During your vet visit, we check for fleas, ticks and worm infestations.  We also offer treatments to prevent parasites and tips on how to check for them on a regular basis - especially if your pet spends a lot of time outdoors.

Vaccinations
Vaccinations help prevent certain diseases from affecting your pet.  It's important that your pet has their core vaccinations - especially their rabies vaccination.  The rabies vaccination is required annually or every 3 years, depending on the vaccine used. 

Dental Cleanings
February is National Pet Dental Health Month!  Your annual check-up is the perfect time to schedule a dental cleaning for your pet.  During a dental cleaning, we can check to see if your pet has any signs of gingivitis.  We can help prevent smelly dog breath!

Allergy Testing
You're not the only one suffering from allergies.  Dogs and cats can suffer from allergies.  You might notice your pet itching, licking or sneezing due to allergies.  We can perform an allergy test to determine the reason behind your pet's allergies, as well as offer suggestions on how to ease the symptoms.

If your pet is due for an annual exam, contact one of our offices 
below to schedule an appointment!

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!

Friday, February 19, 2016

Celebrate Love Your Pet Day

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

It's National Love Your Pet Day!  

While we love our pets every day, be sure to show your pet a little extra attention in honor of this special holiday.  

Here are a few ways to spoil your pet today!

How to Celebrate Love Your Pet Day!

  • Have a Play Date - Pets love attention.  A play date is a simple, stress-free way to let your pet burn off some extra energy.  Just be careful and make sure that it is a calm environment, especially if they're meeting for the first time.  If your pets aren't getting along, don't force it.
  • Bake a Homemade Treat - What pet doesn't love a homemade treat?  Try a simple recipe for dog biscuits like this one.
  • Adopt a New Friend - If you're ready to add a pet to your family, today is the perfect time to adopt!  Just be sure to give us a call afterwards for your pet's first medical checkup and vaccinations.
  • Get Crafty with a DIY Project - DIY projects can be fun for both you AND your pets.  Try making your own cute treat jar.
  • Bring Them In for a Check Up - One of the best ways to truly show your pet how much you care is to bring them in for an annual exam.  Through preventative wellness exams, we can help make sure that your pet is on the right track for a long, happy and healthy life.
If you have any questions about your pet or your pet's health, don't hesitate to contact one of our offices!  We are here to answer all of the questions you have!


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!

Thursday, February 18, 2016

Why Do You Need to Neuter Your Puppy?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Neutering your dog is an important step in helping your pet live a long and healthy life.  In addition to the numerous medical benefits, it also helps reduce overpopulation by keeping the number of stray puppies and kittens down.  


Neutering FAQs:

What is the difference between spaying and neutering?
Neutering is for male dogs, while spaying is for female dogs.  Your pets gender will tell us which procedure your pet needs to undergo.

Is neutering a safe procedure?
Of course!  Neutering is a common medical procedure and our staff take the utmost pride and care in your pet's experience at our practice.

When should I neuter my pet?
Neutering can be done as early as two months (or two pounds).  However, the average age for neutering is four months.

What are the health benefits of neutering?
Male dogs have a reduced risk of developing prostate cancer and eliminate the risk of developing testicular cancer.  This procedure can also help reduce some behavioral problems, such as roaming, marking and aggression.

If you have any questions about neutering, don't hesitate to contact our office!  We are here to answer all of the questions you have about your pets health.  Contact one of our offices below to schedule a spaying/neutering appointment.


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!

Friday, February 12, 2016

Why Do Cats Sleep So Much?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Sleeping is probably one of your cat's favorite activities.  Sometimes it seems like all our cats do is lay around!  On average, cats sleep for 15 hours a day -- and some can sleep up to twenty hours.

Although they might seem lazy, it's normal (and healthy) for your cats to sleep throughout the day.  Here are a few of the reasons behind your feline friend's cat naps.

1.  Cats are more active at night.  Cats are more active between dusk and dawn.  This means that they spend most of the daylight hours sleeping around.  If you're new to owning a cat, you might be surprised that they find ways to get into trouble late at night!

2.  It's a natural instinct.  Cats are natural predators.  It is in their biology to expend energy while in pursuit of prey.  While your kitten doesn't need to hunt for it's food further than it's dish, his ancestors did!  Because of this, your cat spends most of the day sleeping and conserving energy until it is night time (when they can hunt -- or play).

3.  They're not feeling well.  If you notice that your cat has been sleeping more than usual, they might be stick.  Bring your cat into one of our cat-friendly hospitals for a checkup and we can determine if your cat is suffering from anemia, hyperthyroidism, etc.

If you have any questions about your cat's odd behaviors, contact our office!  Feel free to contact any of our Brooklyn or Long Island offices for more information.

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!

Thursday, February 11, 2016

Brushing Up On Pet Dental Health

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Smelly breath can be more than a nuisance.  80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by the age of three!  

When was the last time you checked your pet's teeth?  

This February is Pet Dental Health Month, and we are reminding pet owners to brush up on oral health care for their furry friends.  Being proactive can help prevent dental disease and keep your pet's teeth healthy!  Here are a few oral health care tips to help get you started on improving your pet's tooth health.

How to Care for Your Pet's Dental Health:

Schedule a Veterinary Exam
During routine, veterinary check-ups, we carefully examine your pet's teeth and gums.  You should make sure that you schedule these veterinary exams once a year.  Annual checkups help prevent health problems, including dental diseases.

Clean Teeth at Home
While we know to brush our teeth twice a day, pet owners often forget to brush their pet's teeth!  Create a tooth brushing schedule for your pet to help keep their teeth healthy.  Make sure that you use pet-friendly toothpaste.  Toothpastes with fluoride  are bad for your pet's health.

Provide Healthy Treats
You can provide your pet with formulated food that is proven to help remove plaque and tarter.  Healthy treats can help reduce your pet's risk 
of periodontal disease.

Is your pet due for a dental checkup?  Contact one of our offices below to schedule an appointment!

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!

Wednesday, February 10, 2016

How to (Safely) Spoil Your Pets This Valentine's Day

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com


Valentine's Day is right around the corner!  As you start to think of ways to shower your loved ones this weekend, don't forget about your pets!  Your cat or dog will appreciate the extra love.
 
Celebrate Valentine's Day With...
 
With Lots of Playtime
New toys can be the perfect way to treat your pet.  Try the DIY route with these simple toys or pick up a new one at the store!  Spending quality time playing with your pets is a great way to show them affection.

With a Long Walk
If the weather cooperates, take your pet for a walk.  The fresh air and exercise is good for both you and your pet!

With Catnip
Cats go crazy for catnip.  Just the smell will leave them happily rolling or meowing.  Look for toys that have catnip in them as a special Valentine's Day treat for your feline friend.

With Baked Treats
Try your hand at baking a gourmet treat for your pet!  This recipe for Valentine's Day cranberry hearts for your pup or this recipe for Catnip Kitty Treats for your feline friend.

Your pets will appreciate the extra treats - just be careful of overdoing it on the extra calories.

Of course, you should also keep a few safety concerns in mind.  Some of the ways that we like to celebrate Valentine's Day can be unsafe for our pets.
 
Be Careful Of...

Chocolate
Every pet owner knows that chocolate can be potentially life-threatening.  Be sure to keep chocolate (especially dark chocolate) out of your pet's reach.  If your pet does accidentally find it's way into your chocolate supply, be sure to give our office a call.

Cocktails
Keep an eye on wine or champagne glasses (and spills).  Even a small amount of alcohol can be toxic to your pet.

Toxic Bouquets
Be mindful of what kinds of floral arrangements are sent to your home for Valentine's Day.  Lilies and rose thorns can be dangerous if your pet gets a hold of them.

Lit Candles
Candle flames can provide a beautiful evening glow, but be sure to blow them out before you leave the room.  You don't want your pet to accidentally burn themselves or knock over the candle when you're not around.

If you have any questions about your pet's health this weekend, we encourage you to contact one of our offices.  We're here to help you keep your pet's happy and healthy year-round.

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!

Friday, February 5, 2016

How to Celebrate a Pet-Friendly Super Bowl Sunday

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Are you ready for Super Bowl Sunday?  As you start to prep for game day - stocking up on snacks, and inviting over friends and family - don't forget about your furry friends!  You can include your pet in your super bowl festivities, too!

Follow these tips for a pet-friendly super bowl celebration.

Pet-Friendly Super Bowl Tips:


Make sure they feel safe.  With all of the yelling that goes on during a football game, pets can become nervous and scared.  Make sure that they have a safe place that they can go to while the game is on to get away from the commotion.

Help them feel included.  Try making a pet-friendly super bowl treat!  While you snack on traditional wings and dip, your dog can try this football treat.  Try this recipe for football shaped dog biscuits.

Keep your snacks out of reach.  Many of the foods that we love are toxic for our pets.  Onions, grapes, alcohol, chocolate, guacamole, and other ingredients that are commonly found in super bowl snacks are toxic.  If your dog or cat tends to climb up on your furniture, make sure that your food is safely out of their reach.  You should also be careful of any crumbs and foods that are dropped on the floor!

If you have any questions about your pet's health or your pet ingests something they shouldn't this Sunday, give one of our hospitals a call.  We're here to help your pet stay happy and healthy!


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!