How to Enjoy the Fall with Your Pet This Weekend

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Are you enjoying the cool, fall weather?  This weekend, get in the autumn spirit by spending time with your pets outdoors!  Here are a few ways to enjoy the Fall weather with your pets this weekend.

Pet-Friendly Fall Activities:

• Go Apple Picking - What better way to enjoy the fall weather than apple picking with friends or family.  While not all apple picking farms are not dog-friendly, Pennings Orchards allows you to bring your dog.  Just be sure to give the farm a call before you head out for the trip to confirm.
• Stay at a Haunted Hotel - Have you ever caught your dog barking into thin air?  There are many pet-friendly hotels in the north east that are "haunted" by spirits.
• Hike Through Fall Foliage - There are many nature preserves in New York that let you and your pets walk along beautiful trails and observe the changing leaves.  Just be sure to watch for ticks and check your pet after the walk.

Still looking for fun, pet-friendly ideas?  Check out this article for more inspiration.

Need to contact one of our practices?  Check out the contact information below and give us a call.

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 Dogs Tilt Their Heads?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Have you ever noticed that your dog tilts his head when you speak?  Whether you're calling your pup, or they hear a strange noise, they might cock their head in the appearance that they are listening to what is going on.  Here are a few possible reasons behind your furry friend's cute response.

Why Dog's Tilt Their Heads:

• They're Trying to See Better - Dogs use our words, inflection, facial expressions and body language to better understand how we are communicating with them.  Dogs with longer muzzles may tilt their heads because they have difficulty assessing your facial expressions with their vision obstructed.
• They're Conditioned To - There is no denying that a slight head tilt is adorable.  If you show your pet that you are affectionate after they tilt their head, it's positive reinforcement.  This encourages the behavior and the more you continue to praise your dog, they more likely they are to continue repeating the behavior.
• They're listening - Like we might assume, it's possible that your dog is tilting their head to try to identify your voice.  He may be trying to understand different tones or familiar words.

Learn more about why your dog may be tilting their head here.  You can also contact our office if you have any questions about your pet's health or behavior.  Contact one of our offices below to schedule an appointment for your pet.

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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How to Care for Your Elderly Cat

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Health needs change throughout our lifetimes. As we age, we tend to slow down and pay more attention to our health needs. The same goes for our feline friends. These tips will help you care for your cat as he or she adjust to the senior lifestyle.

Health Tips for Aging Cats:

Don't Put Off Annual Exams

Routine veterinary visits are important for pets of all ages, but it's even more important with age.  In some cases, your senior cat should be examined twice a year to help prevent dental disease, arthritis, heart disease, kidney disease, and other medical maladies. 

Alter Their Diet Appropriately

Dietary requirements may change with age.  If your cat is no longer as active as he or she once was, you may need to alter their diet to help them maintain a healthy weight.  

Cushion Aging Joints

Does your cat have difficulty falling asleep?  Make sure that they have a comfortable bed to sleep in.  Provide plenty of blanket and cushions to support their aging joints.

Provide Healthy Playtime

Playtime is a great way to keep your cat entertained and help him or her keep their muscles and joints healthy and strong.  However, be sure to choose age-appropriate toys and keep an eye out for signs of pain.  If your cat suffers from arthritis, your cat may lose its desire to play.

If you have any questions about how to care for your senior cat or it's time to schedule your regular health check-up, contact one of our offices. Not only are our veterinarians experienced in caring for cats of all ages, we also have feline-only practices that offer added comfort and ease of care for your pets.  

Our experienced veterinarians can answer any questions you have about how to keep your pet happy and healthy.

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

How to Keep Pets Cool on Hot Summer Days

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Are you staying cool during this heatwave?  Make sure your pets are too!  Here are a few tips to help keep pets cool and comfortable on hot summer days.

How to Keep Your Pet Cool:

• Provide Plenty of Water - Make sure that your pets are staying hydrated on hot days, especially if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors.
• Walk Them in the Morning - Avoid walking your pets during the hottest part of the day.  Not only is a mid-day walk strenuous for you and your pet - the hot concrete can be harsh on their paws.
• Keep Pets in the Shade - Make sure that your pet always has access to shade when spending time outdoors.
• Never Leave a Pet in the Car - If you're taking your pet with you on the road, never leave them alone in the car.  even leaving your pet alone for a short period of time can leave them overheated on hot days.

If you do notice signs of overheating in your cat, make sure that they stay calm and relaxed in a cool indoor place.  Cool your pet down and give them plenty of water.  Give our office a call if you are having any difficulty.

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What Dog Breeds are Best for Kids?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

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Deciding on the right dog breed for your family can be tough.  How do you know which type of dog will be best for your home and kids?  Here are a few tips to help you pick the right dog for your family's lifestyle.

Best Breeds for Kids:

Bulldog
Bulldogs are not very energetic pets, but they are a great choice for families with kids.  They are comfortable living in large houses, as well as apartments.  While they may look a little intimidating, they tend to be friendly, gentle and loyal.

Beagle
Beagles are perfect for homes with active kids.  They like lots of exercise, so be sure to take them on a daily walk.

Bull Terrier
Bull terriers require lots of playtime.  They are perfect for large families, where they will get plenty of attention.  

Collie
This dog breed was made famous by Lassie!  They are very gentle and love to protect their family. 

Newfoundland
These dogs are gentle and patient.  However, they prefer to spend time inside with their family (not outside in the yard).

For more tips on choosing the right dog breed for your home, check out this article.  You can also contact one of our offices with any questions you have about your pet.

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Harmful NYC Algal Blooms Are Potentially Toxic To Dogs

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Did you know that harmful algal blooms are a potential source of toxins to dogs?  

While most algal blooms are not harmful to people and animals, blue-green algae (which is actually a type of bacteria) can produce toxins that are harmful to the liver or the central nervous system.  Pet Owners should be mindful of keeping their dogs away from any water that has a harmful algal bloom.

Routine monitoring has identified the presence of 

harmful algal blooms at three  NYC locations:

Prospect Park Lake in Brooklyn

Central Park Lake in Manhattan

 Indian Pond in the Bronx 

The cyanobacteria responsible for these NYC algal blooms produce hepatotoxins and neurotoxins, as well as irritants that can cause pets to experience skin irritation and an allergic reaction.  Dogs are especially susceptible to exposure because they are more likely to drink and swim in the water.  If they ingest the affected water, they can experience any of the following signs of toxicosis:

Liver Toxins:

Repeated Vomiting

Diarrhea or Tarry Stool

Loss of Appetite, Anorexia

Jaundice

Abdominal Swelling & Tenderness

Cyanosis of Skin

Dark Urine or Reduced/No Urine Output

  Nerve Toxins:

Stumbling, Seizures, Convulsions, Paralysis

Excessive Salivation/Drooling

Disorientation, Inactivity or Depression

Elevated Heart Rate, Difficult Breathing

Diarrhea

Lacrimation

Skin Toxins: 

Skin Rashes, Hives

How Can You Prevent Toxicosis in Dogs?

Keep your dog on a leash when near any of the affected bodies of water.  

If your pet does go in the water, follow these steps:

1. Remove your pet and don't allow them to lick their fur or paws.
2. Rinse/wash your pet thoroughly with soap and fresh water using rubber gloves.  Otherwise a towel and a rag can be used to remove the algal debris.
3. Wash your own hands with fresh water after washing your dog.
4. Keep an eye out for any for the above toxicosis symptoms.

If your dog or any other animal exhibits symptoms of harmful algal bloom poisoning, contact the New York State Department of Health by emailing harmfulalgae@health.ny.gov and contact our office if you have any questions!

The Department of Environmental Conservation routinely samples bodies of water in New York.  Pet owners can view the complete results on their website.

Please give our offices a call if you have any questions about 

the effects of algal blooms on pets in NYC!  

The Cat Hospital

516-746-2287

Paws & Claws

718-782-8387

Fifth Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Heartworm Disease: Myth vs. Fact

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

You may have heard about heartworm disease, but do you really know the facts? 

A heartworm is a foot long worm that lives inside the heart, lungs and other blood vessels of a cats and dogs. Although, the effects of a heartworm differ between cats and dogs, these worms can lead to heart failure, lung disease and damage to other organs in both cats and dogs. 

Here are a few common myths you may hear about heartworms:

Myth: Pets only need to be protected from heartworms in the summer.

Fact: It is recommended that heartworm prevention should be year round. Even when mosquitoes are not present and if your pet lives in cold or dry regions.

Myth: Pets with heartworm disease should be separated from other pets.

Fact: Pets who are infected cannot transmit heartworm disease to other pets or people.Pets get heartworm disease by being bit by a mosquito that is carrying a heartworm larvae.

Myth: Puppies are immune to heartworms.

Fact: Any dog can be infected with heartworms if they are bit by a mosquito that is carrying an infected heartworm larvae. That is why it is important to start heartworm prevention as early as possible.

Myth: Indoor cats can’t get heartworms.

Fact: Mosquitos can easily get into your home and wherever there are mosquitoes there is a chance of heartworm disease. Make sure you take the right precautions to protect your cat from heartworm disease.

Even if you are taking the correct precautions you should still watch for signs of heartworms in your pets. In dogs watch for coughing, loss of appetite, weight loss and reluctance to exercise. With cats you should look for the same symptoms as well as vomiting.

To learn more about heartworms check out these articles. If you have any questions or concerns about heartworm disease in your pets please contact our office or visit our website.

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What Fruits Can Your Pet Eat This Summer?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Want to give your pet a summer treat?  Certain fruits can be a refreshing and healthy snack for your furry friend.  Just be careful - not all food that is healthy for you is healthy for your pet.  Check out the list below for more information on what is healthy for your dog and what is not.  Pet owners should remember to never feed their pet human food unless they are 100% sure that the fruit is healthy for them.

Bananas, seedless watermelon, cantaloupe and berries like strawberries and blueberries are all OK for you dog to eat.  However, cherries and other pitted fruits like peaches are dangerous to pets.  Grapes are also toxic to pets and can cause serious health issues. 

Just remember - a significant change in diet can upset your pet's stomach.  Give them fruit in moderate amounts as a special treat.  Check out this article for more tips on what you can and cannot feed your pet this summer.

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Are You Following Us On Social Media?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Did you know that we are active on Facebook, Twitter, Pintrest, and YouTube?  Connect with our pages for more pet care tips and information on our practices!

LIKE Us On Facebook

www.facebook.com/BregmanVetGroup

Follow Us On Twitter

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Watch Our YouTube Videos

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Tooth Brushing Tips to Help Keep Your Pet's Teeth Clean

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

When was the last time you took a look at your pet's teeth?  Although many pet owners don't realize it, dental health care is important for cats and dogs, too!  Since February is Pet's Dental Health Month, here are a few tooth brushing tips to help keep your pet's healthy.

Tooth Brushing Tips:

• Develop a Cleaning Routine - If you can, try to get your pet used to teeth cleaning at a young age.  The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends getting cats used to the process when they're kittens by using a finger cot or gauze, along with toothpaste.  You can help your dog adjust by gently cupping their muzzle and eventually lifting the lips.  Reward them at the end of the session with a treat!
• Use Special Toothpaste - Fluoride can be harmful if ingested by your pet.  Use a toothpaste that is specifically designed for your pet.
• Stimulate the Gums - Inflammed gums are the first sign of tooth decay.  Try to massage your pets gums to accelerate healing and prevent gum problems further on.  The gums should be pink and healthy, not red or irritated.
• Schedule a Checkup - A dental checkup is an important part of your annual vet visit.  Just like us, your cats and dogs can suffer from periodontal disease and tooth decay if their teeth are left unchecked.

Check out this article for more tooth brushing tips or contact our office.  Our experienced vets can help make sure that your pet's teeth are beautiful and healthy.  Visit our website to learn more.

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Answer Your Cat's Questions Day!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Do you ever wonder what your cat is thinking?  Today is National Answer Your Cat's Questions Day!  

Cats can exhibit a lot of strange behaviors.  In order to answer your cat's questions, it's helpful to have to better understand the reasons behind their behavior.  Here are a few common cat behavior questions to help you gain better insight into what your cat is thinking.

Cat Behavior Questions:

Why Do They Squint Their Eyes? 
When your cat squints their eyes at you, it's a sign that they're happy.  Slowly closing their eyes at you is a sign that they trust you.

Why Do You Receive "Presents?"
Nobody wants to find a dead rodent or insect at their feet.   However, many cats insist on sharing their successful hunt with you.  This may mean that your cat is acknowledging that you are part of their family.  Don't punish your cat for their natural behavior.  Instead, try to keep them indoors.

Why Does Your Cat Chew on Weird Things?
If your cat loves to chew on plastic, carpeting, wiring, or blankets, it could be a sign of anxiety.  This behavior is similar to how we bite our nails.  However, chewing on weird objects could affect your cat's gums and GI tract.  If you notice your cat exhibits this behavior, bring them into our office.

Why Do They Try to Knead/Massage You?
This is an instinctive behavior.  Kittens move their paws against their mother's mammary glands to get milk.  If your cat continues to knead as an adult and it becomes problematic, just bring them into our office.

Why Do They Love to Sit in Boxes?
There are probably plenty of comfortable and spacious places for your cat to sleep, but instead they prefer curling up in a tiny box.  Small spaces can help your cat feel more safe and secure.

Read this article or contact our office to gain a better understanding of why your cat exhibits certain behaviors.  If you do experience any persistent behavioral problems, we can help you determine the reason behind your cat's behavior.

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Should You Add Pumpkin To Your Pet's Diet?

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

It's pumpkin season!  While you and your family indulge in festive drinks and treats, don't forget about your pets.  In moderation, canned pumpkin can be a healthy addition to your cat or dog's diet.

Pumpkin Health Benefits:

• Urinary Tract - The oils contained in the seeds and flesh of pumpkins help pets who suffer from kidney and bladder stones.
• Digestion - Pumpkin is a great source of fiber.  This helps pets who need to reach a healthy weight, as well as those who suffer from diarrhea and constipation.  Fiber is an important part of your cat's diet, especially in geriatric years.
• Furballs - Instead of hacking up furballs, adding a very small amount of pumpkin to your cat's diet (about a teaspoon a day), will help move furballs along through the digestive tract and into the litter box.
• Overall Nutrition - Pumpkin flesh and seeds are filled with vitamins and minerals that are good for your pet.  They help your pet stay healthy and even aid in weight loss.

While canned and cooked pumpkin are a healthy addition to your pet's diet, you shouldn't let your cat or dog eat raw pumpkin.  Read this article for more information on the health benefits of pumpkin and how you can safely prepare it for your pet.  If you aren't sure how your cat or dog will react to a change in diet, contact our office.  We are happy to answer any questions you have about how you can keep your pet healthy throughout the fall season!

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Recognizing the Signs of Asthma

  THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

It’s normal for dogs to pant on hot days or when they feel tired, but pet owners should be aware that asthma can also make breathing difficult in pets.  This allergic reaction triggers inflammation that can narrow or block airways.  We remind pet owners to keep an eye out for clues that may indicate that your pet has asthma.

Asthma Symptoms:

• Heavy panting
• Extreme expansion and contraction of chest muscles
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Loss of energy
• Loss of appetite
• Pale or blue gums (in severe cases)

Both cats and dogs are susceptible to asthma.  If you notice that your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms, you should bring your pet into our office for a visit.  We can help you determine the allergen that is causing your pet’s asthma.

For tips on how to create a safe living space for asthmatic pets, check out this article.  You can also contact Bregman Vet Group with any questions you have regarding your pet’s health.

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Poisonous Plants to Avoid

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Photo Source: Wikipedia

Getting ready to plant your spring garden?  As you pick out the trees, flowers, and shrubs you want to decorate your yard, don’t forget about your pet!  If your cat or dog spends a lot of time outdoors, you need to be able to accurately identify which plants are poisonous to your pets.  Many common household and outdoor plants can be highly toxic to your furry friend.  Here are a few plants we recommend avoiding this spring.

Poisonous Plants:

• Tulips
• Sago Palm
• Spanish Thyme
• Rhododendron
• Yew
• Chrysanthemum
• English Ivy
• Pothos
• Castor Bean

Many of these poisonous plants cause similar effects, ranging from irritation, difficulty breathing, and incoordination to severe gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular problems.  If you suspect your pet has ingested any of these plants, contact Bregman Vet Group for immediate care.

Training Tips That Teach Your Cat to Play Nice

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

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You love your cat – but it can be frustrating when they scratch or bite you or a family member.  If your cat is struggling with behavioral issues, take the time to train him or her.  While you don’t want to inhibit their biological instincts, it’s okay to discipline your cat to play nicely.  Here are a few tips to help train your cat to get along with you and your family.

5 Cat Training Tips:

• Verbal Commands – When your cat does something it’s not supposed to - say “No!”  Don’t scare your cat by yelling, but let them know that you are serious and that what they are doing is wrong.
• Cold Shoulder – The other option is to give your cat the silent treatment.  Stop playing and showing affection as “punishment.”
• Spray Bottles – If your cat is prone to biting often, keep a spray bottle on hand.  Once it bites, immediately spray it with water.  This behavioral method will teach your cat to avoid the action that results in getting sprayed.
• Play Areas – Set up a play area with a scratching post and toys.  This will help your cat let out its need to scratch things without hurting you or a family member.
• Rewards – Offer rewards for good behavior!  If you notice your cat chooses to leave a situation rather than attack, offer a treat.

If you are still having trouble disciplining and training your cat, contact our office.  Our experienced veterinarians can offer tips and tricks to help improve the relationship between you and your cat.