Why Your Pet Needs a Rabies Vaccine

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Is your pet protected against rabies?  

This notorious virus doesn't just affect outdoor animals.  It can affect all pets, including indoor dogs and cats.  That's why it's so important that pets are protected against the virus.

In New York City, it is the law the protect your pet against rabies.  All puppies and kittens need to receive a rabies shot between three and four months of age.  Then, they need to receive a booster shot every 1-4 years following.  

Animals affected by rabies may exhibit aggression, avoid food and water, drool or have difficulty walking.  If your pet is bitten by an animal that has rabies, whether it be a raccoon, bat, cat, dog, etc., it's important that you contact one of our offices immediately.  If your pet has a current vaccine, your pet will be observed in your home for 45 days.  If your pet is not vaccinated, it is important that your pet is quarantined and receives the care he or she needs.

Learn more about the importance of protecting your pets against rabies here.  You can also contact one of our offices directly with any questions you may have and to schedule an appointment for your pet's rabies vaccine.  

The Cat Hospital

877-228-4131

5th Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

718-782-8387

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Why Do Cats Love Cardboard Boxes?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Despite all the fancy cat toys you buy, nothing seems to beat the simplicity of a cardboard box.  What is it that makes these confined spaces so attractive to our feline friends?  

What Makes Cardboard So Intriguing:

It helps your cat feel safe.  Cats like to seek out confined spaces.  It's actually an instinctual behavior that helps them to feel safe and secure.  In the wild, big cats seek out places where they can both hide from predators AND stalk their pray.  

Although we look at our cats, confused about why they enjoy fitting into an awkward space, it's likely that your cat is using the box for safety and protection.

They're curious. Cats are curious creatures.  Your cat might just enjoy exploring the box and enjoy the fun of playing with it!  As long as your cat is in a safe area, it's perfectly fine to let them play with the cardboard box.

They like to chew.  Chew toys aren't just for dogs.  Your cat likes to chew too, just make sure that your cat isn't chewing an harmful materials.  Keep wires and cords away!

It's comfortable.  Cardboard might not seem cozy, but when your cat is surrounded by four cardboard walls, they may feel relaxed and warm.  Boxes provide your cat with a safe place to sleep (after all, they sleep for up to 20 hours every day)!

Learn more about why your cat like cardboard here or here.

If you're curious about your cat's behavior, or you have any questions about your cat's health, contact on 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

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National Take a Walk in the Park Day

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

It's a beautiful day -- what better way to enjoy the spring air than by walking in the park with your furry friend?  Celebrate National Take a Walk in the Park Day at one of these local dog parks!

Near Park Slope:

Prospect Park Dog Beach
It might be a little cool for a swim, but this one of a kind dog beach off of 9th street is still a great place to take your pet on a beautiful day!  Don't forget to come back on a warmer day to enjoy teh water!

Mount Prospect Park
This beautiful park has a secluded feel.  It is well shaded (when the leaves come in) and is a great place to gather.  It's perfect for spending time with Fido!

Hillside Dog Park
This park is completely fenced in with a small dog park area.  It's located on a slope, that gives dogs the opportunity to run up and down!  Not to mention -- there is also a beautiful view of the skyline!

Near Williston Park:

The Park at East Hills Dog Run
Located in Roslyn Heights, this park is clean -- with plenty of parking.  There are even dog drinking fountains to keep your pups hydrated after a day full of exercise.

Eisenhower Park Dog Run
This Westbury dog run offers  plenty of space for your pups.

Did we miss your favorite dog park?  Let us know where you love to take your pup!

If you have any questions about your pet's health today or any day, please 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!

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Pet Owners Need to Protect Against Ticks in an Urban Environment

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

It's that time of year again -- with the warm, spring weather also comes flea and tick protection.  Even in the city, pet owners need to protect their pets.

The American Dog Tick doesn't just inhabit forests, it is also commonly found on urban wildlife, including raccoons, rabbits, and squirrels.  Even if you don't venture out onto any nature trails, your pet is still at risk in your backyard or at the city park.

Although it's called the American Dog Tick, this tick can affect cats, too!  That's why it's so important that both your dogs and cats are protected against ticks as we move into the warmer spring weather.

If you have any questions about how to protect your pets against ticks, how to identify them, or how to remove them, contact our office!  Our experienced and trained staff will help you keep your pet happy and healthy through the spring and summer months.

Please contact one of our offices below with any questions you have about caring for your pet this spring!

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

Wet vs. Dry Food

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Deciding on the right food for your pet can be tough.  There are hundreds of different brands, flavors, textures and varieties.  When it comes to choosing wet pet food or dry pet food -- which is the right one for your pet's needs?

Benefits of Wet Food:
Wet food helps your pet stay hydrated.  If your pet is reluctant to drink enough water, wet pet food might be the right choice for them.

It's also a great choice for older pets with missing teeth or poorly aligned jaws, who are more likely to eat foods that are richer in flavor.

Benefits of Dry Food:
It is much easier to store dry food.  It can be left out for your pet to eat at their own pace.  There is no need to worry about the food spoiling when left out.  It's fresh and cost-effective.  Some foods can even clean their teeth as your pet chews.

Consider your lifestyle and your pet's health needs when determining what type of pet food is best for your furry friend.  If you're still not sure, contact one of our offices below.  We can help you discuss any of your pet's dietary needs.

Please contact one of our offices below with any questions you have about caring for your pet this spring!

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 Start Spring Off on the Right Foot (or paw)

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Hello, Spring! We're looking forward to spending time outside with our pets, soaking in the sun!  As we get ready for all of the activities that come with spring, we need to remember that with the change in seasons comes a new set of pet safety tips to keep in mind.  

We hope that these tips will help you start spring off on the right foot (or paw)!

Be Mindful When Gardening -  Certain popular spring flowers are poisonous to our furry friends.  Be careful when deciding what to plant in your garden or keep inside of your home.  Easter lilies, Chrysanthemums, Hydrangea, and Carnations are just a few of the flowers that can upset your pet's stomach.

Put Cleaning Products Away - Warmer days are perfect for spring cleaning, but don't forget to put your cleaners away!  Pet owners should also be mindful of what they are using to clean the floors and other surfaces that your pets might come into contact with on a regular basis.

Make Identification Simple with Microchips -  Now that your pets will be spending more time outside on walks, it's a good time to make sure that your pet is equipped with proper identification.  In the unfortunate event that your pet is lost, microchips help your pet return safely back to your family. 

Protect Your Pet Against Ticks and Fleas - It's tick and flea season!  Make sure your pet is protected with a preventative treatment before they head outside.

Be Careful When Using Fertilizers and Pesticides - Certain chemicals can be harmful for your pets.  If your lawn has recently been treated, 

keep your pet off of the grass.

Keep Your Pets Groomed - With the weather getting warmer, you'll want to keep your pets well groomed.  This will help them stay cool on hot days!

Please contact one of our offices below with any questions you have about caring for your pet this spring!

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

What Flowers Can You Plant This Year?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

It's National Plant a Flower Day!  What better time to start planning your spring garden?

Whether you add them to your backyard or to your kitchen window sill, plants are a great way to brighten up your space.  Before you head out to your local garden center, you'll want to check to see what types of plants are safe for your furry friends first.

Cats sleep wherever they feel like it.

Our pets have a tendency to get into everything and although some plants are beautiful - they can also be toxic to your cat or dog. Below, you can see a few plants you should avoid, and what you should buy instead.

Cats

What plants are toxic to cats?

Easter Lilies

Tiger Lilies

Azaleas

Branching Ivy

Carnations

Chamomile

Chrysanthemums

Geraniums

Hibiscus

Hydrangea

What should you plant instead?

Basil

Blue Daisy

Canterbury-Bell

Cape Marigold

Jasmine

Cushion Aloe

Impatience Plant

Lady Slipper

Dogs

What plants are toxic to dogs?

American Holly

California Ivy

English Ivy

Carnations

Chamomile

Chrysanthemums

Daffodils

Daisies

Dahlias

What should you plant instead?

Basil

Boston Fern

Butterfly Iris

Cape Marigold

Canterbury-Bell

Cucumber

Dallas Fern

Be sure to check this complete list before heading out to pick up plants and seeds today.  

If you're not sure if a plant is safe for your pet, or your pet has accidentally ingested a toxic plant, give our office a call!  You can reach one of our three NY practices 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

Why Does My Pet Have Itchy Paws?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Itchy paws?  This is a common (and frustrating) problem among our furry friends.  

Here are a few of the most common reasons why your pet may be incessantly licking their paws.

Skin Parasites.  
If your pet is allergic to fleas and mites, even a single bite can cause a reaction.  It's important to have your pet checked for parasites.  They should be prescribed a preventative parasite medication, too, especially with spring right around the corner.

Food Allergies.
Have you recently added a new treat to your pet's diet?  Your pet may have a food allergy.  By replacing certain foods in your pet's diet for 8-12 weeks, you can determine if a food allergy is present.   We also do allergy testing in our office to better narrow down your results.

Dermatitis.
Atopic dermatitis is a skin diseases that is caused by environmental allergens, like dust and pollen.  If you notice that your pet is licking their paws during certain seasons, it could be due to an environmental allergy.  We can test your pet through skin test or blood sample to see what allergens he or she is allergic to.

Surface Allergies.
Your floor surfaces, lawn, patio, etc., are all topical surfaces your pet comes into contact with.  Your pet may be allergic to certain chemicals, lawn fertilizers, detergents, etc.!

If you notice that your pet is licking their paws frequently, it's best to bring your dog or cat into one of our offices to have them examined.  During a veterinary visit, we can help you determine the reason behind your pet's paw licking and help them find some relief.

f 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!

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest