Top 3 Tips for Adopting the Right Cat for Your Family

 

The holiday season is one of the most popular times to adopt a pet, and adopting a cat is an enriching experience. With so many different breeds and considerations, including age, temperament, health, and family dynamics, you must take the time to ensure you are adopting a cat that is right for your family.


The AVMA states that the primary reason cats are given up to animal shelters is unfulfilled expectations, so an informed decision will set you up for success and be better for the cat and your family in the long run. Keep reading for some top tips to pick the ideal feline to bring home.

Think about your lifestyle and how a cat will fit in.

While it is true that many cats are independent creatures, it’s still important to consider your lifestyle and how the cat you bring home will fit in. These pets can adapt to most home situations but need time devoted to their care and attention. Consider the type of home you have. If you are renting, are you allowed to have a cat? If you own, is there enough space for everyone to coexist, and would you be okay with normal cat behaviors like predatory play, scratching, and exploration?


Another consideration of your lifestyle is how long you are away from the house. If you are frequently out of the house, can someone else provide care and attention to your cat? Would this schedule be challenging to manage? Finally, do you have other pets in the house already? If so, are they friendly, and will they get along with your new cat (will the new cat do well with other pets)?

Decide whether you can afford to care for a cat.

Purchase prices of cats can vary significantly like any other pet and often depend on the type of breed and age. If you are adopting, the fees might be minimal, but you must still cover the cost of caring for the cat for the remainder of their life. Other expenses likely arise include grooming, boarding, licensing, sterilization, food, toys, and more.

Consider what personality would work best for you.

Some cats are solitary, while others crave attention, pets, and cuddles. Do your research on the breed you are considering and spend time with the cat before bringing them home so you can get a feel for whether your personalities fit well together.


While the holidays are a great time to adopt a pet, you must avoid acquiring animals impulsively. The AVMA suggests that you take time, involve your family, and carefully consider how the cat would integrate into your life, so if you are interested in adopting a cat this winter, you’ll want to give yourself ample time to make a great decision.


If you have any questions or need help from us at the Bregman Veterinary Group, call us at (863) 588-4200 or to schedule an appointment for your new cat, click here to get started. We hope you have a happy and safe holiday season!

Holiday Foods That Are Actually Safe for Your Dog

 

The holiday season is upon us and each year the big meals shared with family are a highlight of the season. From honey baked hams and turkey with gravy to stuffing, yams, and apple pie, the classics make a happy return to the dinner table in November and December and food comas are found in almost every house.


While family gatherings with amazing meals are great opportunities to unwind and indulge this holiday season for you, it’s important that no matter how much your dog wants to join, they don’t also get a heaping plate of the good stuff. The best way to ensure that your pup is safe this holiday season is to know what holiday foods to avoid, and which ones are safe in the event that you want to share a scrap or two out of holiday spirit. The more you know about what is safe for your dog to eat, the better equipped you can be to share a few small things this holiday season.

Plain potatoes or sweet potatoes

Mashed potatoes with gravy are a holiday table staple for families, and potatoes are some of the only people foods dogs can eat. The key is that these must be plain and there can be no skin or seasoning when fed to your dog. Since pups can’t have salt, pepper, garlic, milk, butter, and other ingredients that are typically added into mashed potatoes, a small scoop before adding any flavors in is okay. The same rule applies to sweet potatoes – keep them plain and avoid the skin for the safest treat for your dog.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a tasty, healthy treat for dogs and many love the flavor. When feeding your dog canned pumpkin, it’s important that you read the label carefully to ensure that the only ingredient is pumpkin and there are no hidden flavors like pumpkin pie mix, sugar, and spices.

Carrots

Plain carrots are a healthy and tasty treat that many dogs love. While it may be easier to give your pup a fresh raw carrot, you can also try given them a cooked carrot as long as there is no seasoning.

White meat

Many people wonder if dogs can eat turkey at Thanksgiving and the answer is yes, they can, as long as it has not been prepared with any seasoning. It’s also important to avoid bones and skip feeding the skin since the outer layer of poultry is likely to have been prepared with butter, spices, or other fatty ingredients. If you cook a chicken instead, the same rules apply.


While all of these foods are technically safe for your pup to eat, it’s important that you don’t overdo it and always err on the side of less is more. Giving a few small safe and healthy snacks (void of seasoning) to your pup while you’re cooking and/or eating your holiday meal can be a treat for you both, but a stomachache is never fun.

Holiday safety tips

Looking for a great resource this year to help keep your pet healthy and safe this winter? Check out the AVMA’s winter holiday pet safety guide that covers everything from food and decorations to hosting parties and visitors and tips for handling holiday travel.


If you have any questions or need any help from us here at the Bregman Veterinary Group , give us a call at (863)588-4200 or to schedule an appointment for your pup, click here to get started. We hope you have a happy and safe holiday season!

5 Important Skills to Train Your New Puppy

 

Adding a new puppy to your family is always exciting for everyone at home! While the transition can be a bit tricky especially since your everyday routine (and theirs) is now different, if you are prepped and ready from day one to train your pup, you will fall into a comfortable routine in no time. Since the transition can be overwhelming, even to the friendliest pets, approaching your training routine with consistency and patience from day one is a great way to help set them and you up for success. Here are some of the most important skills needed to train your new puppy.

Recognize their name

 

It may seem simple and like a no-brainer, but training your puppy to respond to and recognize their own name is a very important skill that you should practice early on. Once your pup starts to know that you are calling for them, you can have better control over all other commands like “stop”, “sit”, “stay”, etc. The best way to help them recognize their name is to be repetitive and say it with a happy tone. Practice from a variety of distances and say it when they are looking away from you as well as when they are looking at you to help it become familiar quickly.

Come when called

 

Not only is it helpful for you to have your pup come when called, it’s also a very important safety skill for them to respond when called to come to their owner. Regardless of if you’re ready to leave the park and head home or if there is a true emergency, this can be an incredibly valuable skill for everyone and one you should teach early on.

Walk on a leash

Allowing you to walk them on a leash is a gamechanger for both you and your new puppy. The AKC suggests that whatever cue you choose from “heel” or “let’s go” to “forward” is up to you, but it’s important to be consistent and always use the same word. For a step-by-step guide on how to teach your pup loose-leash walking, click here.

Love their crate

Puppies nap all the time, and having a safe space to nap and go back to when they need a break is important. One great way to help them understand that their crate is the perfect resting spot is to make the space a cozy and safe one, so they are encouraged to approach and spend time there.

Enjoy socializing

One tip from the AVMA for new puppy owners is to create a socialization plan specifically for your dog to prepare him or her for life in your household. Plan exposures to the animals, individuals, environments, activities, and objects that will be part of his or her new life. Provide regular positive and diverse experiences to encourage your dog or cat to enjoy new experiences without becoming fearful or aggressive.

If you are adopting a new puppy and need to schedule a veterinary appointment, our team at Bregman Veterinary Group is here to help. At Bregman Veterinary Group we make it our mission to help you determine the best course of action for your pet from the very beginning so that they can live long, healthy lives. To schedule an appointment for your new pup, click here to get started.

How Often Should You Feed Your Cat?

 

From a young age we are taught to eat three meals a day with a focus on having a balanced diet. While the routine of planning, preparing, and eating breakfast, lunch, and dinner may be ingrained in us, it’s not the same for animals. In fact, some pets only eat once or twice a day while others may go for longer periods of time between meals. It’s important that when you bring your pet home, you make sure to set a feeding routine that is healthy for them and one you can stick to as their owner. After all, nutrition matters just as 

much to pet health as it does to our own.

Naturally independent

Cats are often best thought of as independent creatures who keep to themselves, and it seems the only time you see them is when they show up meowing for food. Because of this, you’ll want to make sure they have the appropriate access to food (and schedule of feeding) so they can live long healthy lives. According to the AVMA, regular nutritional assessment and counseling can be a vital link in the chain of preventive care for pets. Regardless of how independent your cat is, you’ll want to make sure that you have a solid plan in place to establish nourishing eating patterns.

Factors to consider

Choosing the right amount of food to give your cat as well as the frequency can be tricky. One of the main factors to consider is the age of your cat as kittens require more food to support their growth than adult cats. According to research done by Cornell University, growing kittens up to six months of age may require three meals a day while from age six months to maturity, most cats will do well when fed twice a day. They go on to say that once cats reach adulthood, once a day feeding could also be fine as long as they are healthy and have no disease problems suggesting a reason to feed differently.

 

Stick to a schedule that works for you

Setting up a routine at home that is consistent and dependable is important for you and your pets and this is especially critical when it comes to mealtimes. Consider your lifestyle and schedule to help determine how often and when you feed your cat so you can establish healthy habits. One thing to note is that while it may feel more convenient to leave food out all the time, this is an easy way for your cat to overeat and is therefore not advised.


Good nutrition improves pets’ life expectancy and discussing diet and nutrition with your veterinarian as well as having a clear plan early on make all the difference. If you or someone you know is looking to schedule an appointment with the Bregman Veterinary Group for your new pet or are moving into the area and are looking for a new veterinarian, click here to get started!

Ways to Safely Travel by Car with Your Dog

Whether you’re traveling by car, plane, train, or boat, summer vacations are always a blast! Many families consider their four-legged best friend a member of the family and therefore choose to take them along for the ride. If you’re considering traveling with your favorite four-legged best friend on your next road trip, it’s critical that you make sure they’re safe and sound in the car. From safety gear and secure seats to cool air and frequent stops, here are some of the top ways to safely travel by car with your dog.

Ensure they’re safe and secure

Just as you should always wear your seatbelt to protect you in case of a collision, your pet should always be properly restrained while in the vehicle according to the AVMA. There are so many hazards to having a pet that isn’t buckled in including crawling to the footwell and interfering with the use of the brake or accelerator pedal, being injured by an airbag in an accident, being thrown out or through windows or windshields in a collision, and more.

BringFido listed some of the best pet safety products for the road and they include:


· Dog Harness Seat Belt which fits your pup like a regular harness would and attaches to your vehicle’s existing seatbelt. The harness is extra strong to keep your dog from exploring your car while you’re driving.

· Zipline Harness Seat Belt Tether which uses a standard dog harness seat belt and takes it a step further attaching to a shore length of a leash. Working like a dog run, this zipline gives your pup a little more room to roam if you have the space for it.

· Car Seat Pet Carrier which provides a safe cozy space for smaller dogs and includes a tether inside that can be clipped to a harness, so your pup is secure.

· Pet Hammock which covers the backseat of your car, giving your dog a comfortable spot to cuddle up and providing a barrier between the front and back of your car.

· Travel Crate which is great for pups that are comfortable in crates and/or have anxiety while traveling in the car. Familiar blankets and spaces help to calm the nerves of anxious dogs.

Don’t forget to make plenty of stops

Much like humans need breaks from long drives, dogs need to stretch their legs too and get some fresh air. It’s important to make frequent stops so your pup can go to the bathroom, get some water, and burn off some energy so they’re ready for the next leg of the trip.

While stops are important when taking a road trip, it’s incredibly important that you never, ever leave your dog unattended in the car, especially in hot weather. The AKC warns that even if your dog has water in the car, the temperature inside a closed car will rise instantly, especially in the summer, and can cause heat stroke or death.

Make sure they don’t get overheated

Cars can get very hot for dogs, especially if they are in crates or have blankets to cuddle into. While these can be comforting for your pup, it’s important that wherever they are in the car they have a proper amount of air flow and pay attention to the heat and air conditioning in the car. If you see your pup panting or starting to seem uncomfortable, turn the AC on and make sure the car stays well-ventilated.

Whenever taking your dog on a trip, whether it be to the veterinarian or to a fun travel destination, if you follow these tips, you can feel confident that the trip is as safe as possible for both of you. If you or someone you know is looking to schedule an appointment with the Bregman Veterinary Group for your new pet or are moving into the area and are looking for a new veterinarian, click here to get started!

4 Summer Safety Tips for Your Pet

 

Summer is the best season for getting outside and enjoying long days of sunshine and there’s nothing greater than bringing your pet along for some exercise. While playing outside can be a blast for you and your pup and letting your cat lounge on the porch can be just the kind of sunbathing that they’re looking for, the heat can quickly become dangerous for your pet.


Since your pet won’t know when it’s time to go inside or how to best take care of themselves in the summer, it’s important that you take the proper precautions to keep them safe and sound all season long. Here are our top four summer safety tips for your pet.

Make sure there are plenty of opportunities to escape the sun’s rays

One of the best ways to keep your pet safe this summer is to make sure there’s plenty of shade available. The Humane Society states that any time your pet is outside, it’s important to ensure they have protection from heat and sun. One of the best ways is to take advantage of tree shade and tarps because they don’t obstruct air flow. While shade is important, if the shelter restricts airflow (like a doghouse), it could be even more dangerous as it traps heat.

Always have cold fresh water available

Staying hydrated is critical to help avoid overheating on hot summer days and fresh, cold water is the best option for pets. In heat waves, you may even consider adding ice to the water to keep it cooler for a while. The water available to your pet should always be easy to find, clean, and fresh so they can hydrate with ease. If you’re going on a long walk, make sure to bring it with you and stop frequently for water breaks.

When in doubt, stay indoors

While exercise outside can be a blast for you and your pet, if the weather is too hot for you it’s a safe bet that they should avoid being outside too. While it’s likely you don’t have as much space inside your home to run around as your neighborhood park does, staying cool and playing inside is a much better alternative for everyone.


If you can’t avoid going outside with your pet on those scorching hot days, try to limit the amount of time spent outdoors as well as any exercise to avoid overheating. It’s also a good idea to take walks during the cooler hours of the day like early morning and later at night and to avoid walking on hot surfaces that could easily burn your dog’s paws.

Keep an eye on food outdoors, especially at BBQs and picnics

Eating outside can be a blast for the whole family, and many people love to head outdoors on warm summer days to enjoy a picnic lunch or barbeque. Since picnics, patios, and porches are great places to enjoy a meal, they are not as familiar to us as our kitchens and dining rooms and therefore we may not be as aware of where we leave food.


Pups are notorious for sniffing out the good stuff, and while a few things we eat can be good for your pet, you will want to be the judge of that rather than stumbling upon them eating what they shouldn’t. It’s important to keep things like alcoholic beverages and any snacks away from your pet so they stay safe while enjoying the time spent outside with you!


In addition to these top tips and tricks to keeping your pet safe this summer, the AVMA also says to never leave your dog in the car, and keep your dog free of external parasites and heartworms (make sure to consult your veterinarian about the best product for your pet). If you or someone you know is looking to schedule an appointment with the Bregman Veterinary Group for your new pet or are moving into the area and are looking for a new veterinarian, click here to get started!

The 5 Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2022

 

Every year, the American Kennel Club (AKC) releases their ranking of the most popular dog breeds for the year based on AKC registration statistics. While most of these canines continue to make the list year after year, the list does shift over time based on current trends and this year has a new top dog!

 

2022 was another year of growth as pet ownership in the US continues to increase. In fact, the current rate of 70% of households that own a pet is significantly higher than a few decades ago in 1988 where only 56% of households owned a pet. With 69 million households owning a dog and 30% of Americans adopting at least one pet during the pandemic, let’s take a look at the dog breeds that are topping the list.

 

Five: Poodle

 

The aristocratic Poodle rounds out the top five most popular dog breeds and has continued to be a favorite on this list for years. Whether Standard, Miniature, or Toy, and either black, white, or apricot, the Poodle stands proudly among dogdom's true aristocrats. These beautiful dogs are the national dog of France and have been increasingly popular in the US due to their temperament, great looks, and companionship.

 

Four: German Shepherd

 

Known for their loyal, courageous, and steady demeanors, it’s no wonder the German Shepherd ranked high again this year on the list of most popular dog breeds in the US. Ranking at number four, German Shepherds are not only gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but they are also known as the best breed for law enforcement as their demeanor shows that they are willing to put their lives on the line in defense of loved ones.

 

Three: Golden Retriever

 

One of the most popular pups in the US is the lovable Golden Retriever. Not only do these adorable and friendly dogs make for amazing family pets, but they are also known for their intelligence which makes them highly capable working dogs. Golden Retrievers excel at retrieving game for hunters, tracking, sniffing out contraband for law enforcement, and are amazing therapy and service dogs.

 

Two: Labrador Retriever

 

The Labrador Retriever was the top dog in the US for decades until this year’s announcement of the Frenchie ranking number one. While the Lab slid down in popularity, it was only slightly as this breed is still high on the list and this year’s second most popular dog. One of the reasons why the Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dogs is due to their personality. Labs are famously friendly and are companionable housemates who bond with the whole family, socializing well with neighbor dogs and humans alike.

 

One: French Bulldog

 

Also known as the “Frenchie” the French Bulldog has been climbing the ranks over the past decade and ranked second last year. This year, for the first time ever, the French Bulldog tops the list and is the number one most popular dog breed in the US! In 2012 the Frenchie was ranked at number 14 and since then registrations have increased by over 1,000%. This playful pup made history when it broke the Labrador Retrievers top-dog status that was held for over three decades.

 

Whether you are looking to adopt one of these top dogs to your family or another breed entirely, it’s important that you have a veterinarian picked out and ready to go so your pup is taken care of from day one. The AVMA suggests that you consider a few key factors like the office hours, payment options, and referrals before choosing a veterinarian best suited for you and your family. If you’re looking to schedule an appointment with us at the Bregman Veterinary Group, click here to get started!

3 Reasons to Have a Primary Veterinarian

 

Every pet owner knows it’s important to take your pet to a veterinarian, especially when you first bring them home and every year for annual checkups. While most people select one veterinarian and keep them throughout the life of their pet, not everyone knows just how important it is to have a primary veterinarian. From providing your pet with consistent care to ensuring their veterinarian is up to date on their medical records and history, there are many important reasons why you should select a veterinarian you trust and stick with them.

Comfort is key for your pet

Going to the veterinarian can be a stressful time for your pet, especially if they have been sick in the past or had to have multiple visits due to an illness or accident. If you select a primary veterinarian that your pet can get used to and comfortable with, you are setting yourself (and your best friend) up for success with each visit. Comfort can be hard to come by in stressful situations, but familiarity can do wonders for alleviating the natural stress that comes with visiting a doctor.

Establishing a relationship early-on can help for later illnesses

By selecting a primary veterinarian from the time that you bring your pet home, you are giving yourself and your best friend time to build a trusting relationship from the get-go. Since early visits to the vet typically involve routine checkups and shots, these can be less stressful appointments and help establish the familiarity that can be critical later on down the road. If your pet becomes sick or is involved in an accident and needs the care of a veterinarian, having a primary provider can be a game changer in the comfort level for everyone involved since getting to know one another is not a focus of any of those visits.

Gain quick access to appointments and help when you need it

If your pet is already an established patient with a certain veterinarian, it is much easier to get quick access to that vet’s schedule last-minute if you need it. If you need help from a specialist or quick access to advice, working with a primary veterinarian and establishing a relationship with the office can also help you gain peace of mind that you will have swift help when you need it.

How to pick the right veterinarian

According to the AVMA, today’s pets are living longer, healthier lives thanks to the availability of high-quality veterinary care, preventative care, and pet owners’ careful monitoring of their animals for early signs of illness. When choosing a veterinarian for your pet and your family, you should use the same care and criteria that you would when selecting a physician or dentist for yourself. In addition to location, office hours, and payment options, you will want to select a veterinarian that has a great reputation and that you feel comfortable with as a long-term relationship is the best goal for all.

Once you have established a relationship with your primary veterinarian, you (and your pet) will feel much more at ease at appointments over time. It’s important to remember that a great veterinarian cares as much about you as an owner as they do about your pet, so this relationship is just as important for them to maintain over time as it is for you. When your veterinarian knows your pet’s medical history and temperament, they can swiftly jump into action if/when they need to.


If you or someone you know is looking to schedule an appointment with the Bregman Veterinary Group for your new pet or are moving into the area and are looking for a new veterinarian, click here to get started!

4 Ways to Get Active This Summer with Your Dog

 

In addition to making sure your dog has a safe / comfortable home, is well fed, and has regularly scheduled veterinarian appointments, it’s so important to prioritize exercise. With warm weather settling in and summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to get in some great exercise with your pup. In addition to making sure you get more walks in, here are some of the top ways to get active with your dog this summer.

Add a daily walk to your schedule

With longer days of sunshine in the summer months, there are plenty of opportunities for you to find time for a daily walk. Whether you are an early bird and like to be active before you start your day or want to find a way to unwind after work, adding this into your routine is not only good for you, but also amazing for your four-legged companion. Aim for at least a 15-minute walk (or more if you can swing it) and enjoy the sunshine as you spend some quality time with your furry best friend.

Plan some hikes on the weekend

Whether you live in the mountains or near the beach, chances are there are plenty of places nearby that you can go to get in a great hike. Research the best ones and make a summer bucket list for a great way to set goals and plan some hikes with your pup. Make sure the length and difficulty of the hike is appropriate for your dog and don’t forget to pack water for you both!

Set up puppy play dates with your friends

If you have friends with other dogs nearby, try and set up a puppy play date outside at a local park, in one of your backyards, or even at a dog park you love. It gives both of you a great opportunity to socialize and an opportunity to spend time outside for more than just you and your pup. If you choose a dog park, make sure you follow all rules and regulations and keep an eye on your pup the whole time to make the experience a positive and safe one for all.

Prioritize safety

While all of these activities can be great for prioritizing exercise for you and your dog, you’ll want to make sure that you are keeping safety top of mind when heading outside. The AVMA suggests that you always make sure your pup has access to fresh water and shade when outside. You should also ask your veterinarian how to recognize signs of heat stress and prioritize cooler hours of the day for outdoor exercise, especially if your pup has a lot of fur.

If you have questions regarding safe activities to enjoy outside with your pet or simply need to schedule your next appointment with the Bregman Veterinary Group, all you have to do is click here to get started!

How To Prepare for Your Pet’s Surgery

 

Surgery can be extremely scary and stressful, even for the most prepared of patients. While there are many ways to help you and your loved ones prepare for a surgery, not everyone knows there are some great tactics to also help your pet prepare for (and recover from) a surgery. Ignorance may be bliss and knowing that your pet doesn’t have the anxiety that us humans do going into it can help give you peace of mind, but once they arrive the fear could kick in. Keep reading to learn some of the best tips and tricks to help prepare you and your pet for their surgery.

The week and days leading up to the surgery

Prior to any surgery, your veterinarian will send you home with instructions on how to best prepare in the week / days leading up to the surgery. The week before the event, you should review these instructions again carefully to ensure you’re ready for all the necessary steps. Sometimes these instructions include extra tests that need to happen prior to your pet going under general anesthesia and sometimes they can be as simple as when and what to eat in the hours beforehand.


Make sure to ask your veterinarian about what to do the night before your pet’s surgery so you can prep them accordingly. Things to ask about specifically include whether they should take any medication, if there are any changes to exercise you should implement, or if there are any changes in eating or drinking (amount, type, or even the time to cut off altogether). Make sure that you are following these instructions carefully, so you set your pet up for success on surgery day.

Prep your home for post-op

Not only is it important to prep your pet for the surgery, but you will also want to use this time to prepare your home for the days following the procedure. If you have multiple pets or rowdy children, you’ll want to ensure the space is calm and separate from any distractions and disruptions that could negatively impact their healing process. If you have a lot of stairs in your home, it may be a good idea to use a baby gate to discourage your pet from traveling up and down, or to pick a room with a door that closes so you can monitor them carefully. Finally, you’ll want to make sure all bedding that they will use is clean and washed to help lower the risk of any infections.

When in doubt, consult your veterinarian

While the instructions your veterinarian sends with you prior to the surgery will likely have all the information you need, it can still be a nerve-wracking time and it’s important that you are well-equipped to help your furry friend prepare and recover for this stressful event. Ask your veterinarian any questions you have about the days leading up and the days following the surgery and you’ll feel much more confident that you are providing the best care possible.


If you have any questions or are ready to schedule an appointment with the Bregman Veterinary Group, click here to get started. Whether you need to spay or neuter your pet, are looking for a veterinarian for your new pet or simply need to change practices, we are here to help!

How Long Can You Safely Leave a Cat Alone?

 

It’s no secret that cats are independent creatures who love their alone time. While giving your feline best friend the space they need to enjoy peace and quiet can be a great practice at home, it’s important to know the difference between what amount of time alone is healthy and when it becomes too much. With such busy lives it can become easy to get into a day-to-day routine that doesn’t allot much time to socialize with our cats. Keep reading to learn what a good limit is and how that limit can fluctuate from cat to cat so you can make an informed and healthy decision for you and your furry pet.

The exact timing depends on age and circumstances

While most felines are comfortable being left alone for long stretches of time (like 8 hours while you are at work) the maximum amount of time that your adult cat might be able to be alone is up to 24 hours. Whenever you have frequent periods of time where you are not home, keep in mind that this can be disruptive to a cat, and they can become anxious and troubled easily and it’s definitely important that you don’t leave them alone for days on end.

Even though adult cats are much more self-sufficient during the day, you should err on the side of caution with kittens who shouldn’t be left alone for more than a couple of hours at a time. Remember that kittens need much more care and contact, especially given that they are adjusting to a new environment.

How to keep your cat comfortable while alone

It’s critical that you have fresh water available and maintain a feeding schedule even if you can’t be physically present. This may mean having a neighbor or friend come in at a certain time to fill their bowls. Another way to make sure they are comfortable in your absence is to leave them with a cozy spot to cuddle up and a clean litter box. With space to move around the house and zones for food, water, and sleep that they are familiar with, they will be much better off fending for themselves while you are out.

How to approach socializing with kittens

While these tips and tricks are great for adult cats, creating a socializing plan for new kittens from early on takes a bit more planning. In fact, the AVMA recommends that all new kitten owners should spend the time planning ahead to help their new pet develop a calm and confident temperament that will help them enjoy life to the fullest. This socialization plan should include important things including a timeline and strategy for exposing your new pet to other animals, a plan for rewarding engagement and discouraging naughty behaviors, and for positive and diverse experiences so they can be more confident each time.


Once you follow these tips and take your time to gradually earn your cat's trust and have established a good routine for alone time and socializing, you’ll be much more confident that you’re making healthy decisions for your four-legged best friend. If you have any questions or are ready to schedule an appointment with the Bregman Veterinary Group, click here to get started!

Top 3 Training Tips When Adopting Older Dogs

There are thousands of blogs, articles, and books related to training your new puppy, and many people believe it is arguably much easier to train a brand-new pup over an older one. The saying “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is widely believed and many dog owners are anxious about the process of training older dogs but adopting an older dog and giving them a safe and loving home is also one of the most rewarding things you can do.

 

While it may take more patience and trial and error than with a puppy, there are some great training tips and tricks to follow when adopting older dogs that will make the process much more seamless for both you and your new best friend.

 

Set up a training schedule

 

If you establish a training schedule early on when bringing your dog home, you are signaling that there is a predictable routine that can be counted on and your canine friend will adapt much more quickly. Schedule things as best as you can based on your calendar including meals, potty breaks, and bedtime. If you can, try and also plan exercise times and training sessions at roughly the same time each day so these concepts can click faster for your dog.

 

Use positive reinforcement

 

Pups feed off our energies, both good and bad, and if you are encouraging and excited each time that they respond to commands or show signs of understanding and listening, they will feel that positive energy. Training treats that are small are also great tools to help positively reinforce great behaviors and habits. Reward and praise are key for keeping it fun and help you both make progress. 

 

Rather than scolding and yelling when your pup has an accident inside, try to give lots of praise right after they go to the bathroom outside. The goal is to have your new dog connect the praise to the action, so they establish positive habits.

 

Approach new skills as you would a puppy

 

Older dogs don’t just need to be taught when and where to use the bathroom and where to eat, they are also great students for new skills just like puppies but may need a little more practice and patience. A great trick like “shake” is a good place to start, and you should follow the same steps as you would a puppy including going through the motions of sitting, showing them the treat in your hand, closing your fist, and having them paw at the treat, essentially giving you a handshake!

 

Consult your veterinarian

 

It’s important to note that even if you try all these tips and tricks, the process may be slow based on your pup’s old habits and experiences. Patience is key when it comes to training older dogs and your veterinarian is a great resource to help you navigate this new process. Practice often and reward good behavior for the best chances of establishing good behaviors quickly and remember, establishing a routine at home is beneficial for both you and your new pet. 

 

If you are looking to schedule an appointment with the Bregman Veterinary Group, for your new pup or are seeking advice on how to best train your older dog that is already a patient, click here to get started!