National Pet First Aid Awareness Month

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month.  Although first aid is often one of the last things on our minds, it's important to know how to care for your pet in the event of an emergency.  
By taking a few moments to learn how to recognize the signs that your pet is in distress, you can save your pet's life in an emergency confidently.

Heat Stroke.  The weather is starting to warm up.  This means that you need to start looking out for signs of heat stroke in your pet.  Remember to never leave your pet inside of a warm car.  Even during a short trip, the air inside of a car can reach 120 degrees!  

Look for signs of:

• Heavy Panting
• Being Unable to Calm Down (even when lying down)
• Red Gums
• Fast Pulse Rate
• Unable to Get Up

What to Do:

If you suspect your pet has heat stroke, you need to cool your pet off immediately.  Use hose water to cool your pet off and bring them to one of our offices to make sure that your pet doesn't suffer from any health damage.

Choking.  It's easy to see how our pets can be prone to choking.  They love to chew on food and may even get caught rummaging through the garbage.  If your dog is choking, wait a few moments to see if they are able to cough up the obstruction.  

Look for signs of:

• Gagging
• Drooling Excessively
• Wheezing
• Gasping for Breath
• Grey or Blue Gums
• Loss of Consciousness

If your pet has any of these symptoms, it's important to take action immediately.  Encourage your dog to swallow by gently rubbing its throat or offering a treat.  You should also look inside of your pet's mouth.  You can look far back in the throat with a flashlight and try to remove it -- just take extreme caution to not accidentally force the object further back.  You should also bring your pet to the office.  With emergency veterinary care, we can make sure that your pet is in good hands.

If you have any pet emergency, it's important to always be cautious.  If you have any questions at all about your pet's health, we encourage you to 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

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How to Choose the Right Groomer

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

There is nothing better than a happy, clean puppy.  Every pet needs a nice bath, a hair cut, and nail trimming.  However, as a protective pet parent, you want to make sure that you're choosing the right groomer for your loved one.  Here are a few steps to take when choosing the right groomer for your pets needs.

How to Choose the Right Groomer:

1.  Will you go professional or DIY?
Consider your pet's behavior and how comfortable they are with others.  While you might be able to groom your short-haired cat at home, a long-haired dog might be better suited for professional grooming.  Consider your pet's needs before deciding on where you will groom your pet.

2.  It doesn't hurt to get a recommendation.
Ask your fellow pet owners who they trust to groom their pets.  You can also give one of our offices a call for a recommendation. We are happy to provide a few options for you to choose from.  You can also take a look online and read reviews before deciding on the place that is right for your furry friend.

3.  Prepare for your visit.
It's important that your pet can tolerate being groomed by a professional.  This will help provide for a more enjoyable experience for both parties involved.  Try to ease your pet into grooming by gently massaging her coat each morning and gradually introduce a brush or comb.  This will help train your pet to feel comfortable and at ease when being groomed.

You'll also want to make sure that your pet is up-to-date on veterinary treatments, including vaccines.  Spayed and neutered pets are also calmer overall and will likely feel more at ease in a professional environment. If you're due for an update or your pet needs to be spayed or neutered, contact our office to schedule an appointment before you visit the groomer.

If you have any questions about how to choose the right groomer for your pet's needs, or if you have any questions about how to care for your pet, 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

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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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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

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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

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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

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4 Tips to Help Your Cat Feel Comfortable At Home

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Happy Caturday!  Whether you're looking to bring home a new kitten or you're trying to help your cat feel more comfortable at home, there are a few tips and tricks that can help reduce anxiety.  
Cat Comfort Tips:

1. Buy A Cat Tree - Cats like to survey the area around them and may try to perch on top of high cabinets and counter tops.  Buy them a cat tree that they can safely view the home from.
2. Let Your Cat Come to You - Sit on the floor and let your cat come to you.  Allowing your new pet to become gradually acquainted to you will help him or her feel more comfortable.
3. Offer Hiding Spaces - Cats also love to hide in places where they feel safe.  You can buy a covered cat bed or cat carrier where they can stand up and turn around.
4. Keep the Liter Box Somewhere Private - Put the litter box in a place where there is not a high traffic volume.  This will help your cat feel more comfortable and help with training.

If you have any questions about your cat's health or how you can help them better adjust to your home, contact our office.  Our experienced veterinarians and staff will help you keep your feline friend 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

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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

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

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How to Get Rid of Fleas

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Fleas are every pet owners worst nightmare.  These tips will help you manage your pup's fleas and help rid the infestation from your home.

How to Get Rid of Fleas At Home:

1. Treat Your Pet - The first thing you should do is bring your pet to the vet to be treated for fleas.  If you have multiple pets, make sure that you treat all of your pets, as fleas can leap from one pet to another.
2. Vacuum Your Home - Vacuum more than just your carpets.  Be sure to vacuum the rugs, your pet's bedding and any other area that your pet spends time.  Vacuuming helps eliminate any flea eggs that may have been laid around the house.  You should also be conscious to throw the bag away immediately after vacuuming.
3. Wash the Bedding - Wash your pet's bedding to remove any eggs that might be hiding.  You should also wash your own sheets if your pet is known to curl up with you in your own bed!

Having trouble with fleas?  Give one of our offices a call!

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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How to Handle an Injured Pet

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Unfortunately, accidents happen.  While no pet parent wants their furry friend to become injured, it's important that we understand how to handle emergency situations.  These tips will help make sure that you and your pet are safe

Tips for Handling an Injured Pet:

• Remember That They're Scared - Even a gentle pet will be scared and confused if they are in pain.  Remember that you need to be careful when handling your pet to avoid getting bitten or scratched.  
• Give Us A Call - Give one of our offices a call.  We can help you with any questions you have about the best way to bring your pet into the office.
• Know When to Muzzle - Using a muzzle on your pet will reduce your chance of being bitten, but you should never muzzle your pet if they are vomiting.  Cats can be wrapped in a towel.
• Transport Them in a Confined Area - When transporting an injured pet, you want to keep them in a confined area.  This will help reduce the risk of additional injury while you bring them into the hospital.  You can use a pet carrier, or if you have a larger pet you can use a board, blanket or something similar to act as a stretcher.

The American Medical Veterinary Association offers additional tips on how to handle an injured pet.  You can also contact any of our offices with questions that you have about how to care for your pet.

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How Well Do You Know Your Celebrity Pets?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

#FlashbackFriday - There have been many famous pets that have captured our hearts in TV, movies, and even as internet sensations.  While your own furry friend will always hold the #1 spot - which famous pet is your favorite?

Famous Furry Friends:

Lassie - Although Lassie is a fictional character, this famous pet was played by a Rough Collie named Pal in 1943.  Since then, 10 generations of Pal's direct descendants have portrayed Lassie in film and on TV.  This is quite the celebrity dog family!

Toto - Another fictional character, but Toto was played by a female brindle terrier named Terry.  She was paid more than other human actors at $125 per week!

Pluto - Disney fans are no stranger to Mickey Mouse's pet Pluto.  He's one of the most upbeat members of the Disney team. 

Air Bud - Remember the movie Air Bud?  This Disney/Warner Bros film revolves around Buddy the dog who knows how to play basketball.

Garfield - We're all familiar with this cartoon cat.  Garfield is the most popular cartoon cat world-wide!

Grumpy Cat - This internet celebrity is known for her grumpy facial expression.  The permanently grumpy-looking face is actually due to an underbite and feline dwarfism.

Check out this list for more famous pets.

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Image Sources:

Lassie

Pluto

Are You Following Us On Social Media?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

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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

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How to Welcome a Pet-Friendly Spring

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Although warm spring weather may feel perfect, you still have to take precautions with your pet just like you would in the winter and summer months.  Here are a few tips to help you celebrate a pet-friendly spring season.

Spring Pet Care Tips:

• Maintain Their Coat - It's okay to let your pet have a shaggier coat during the winter, but as temperatures start to rise in the spring, it's important to maintain their coats so that they don't overheat.
• Care for Their Paws - As the ice begins to melt, chemicals can puddle in the roads.  When walking outside, make sure that your pet doesn't stop to drink from any puddles.
• Keep An Eye On Allergies - Suffer from springtime allergies?  Your pet may suffer too.  Look for itching, coughing, sneezing, flaky skin or an oily-feeling coat.  If you think that your pet is suffering from allergies, contact our office.
• Beware of Spring Bulbs - Before you begin spring gardening, be aware of what you are putting in the dirt.  Certain flower bulbs like tulips, and hyacinths can be toxic to pets if ingested.

For more spring safety tips, check out this article.  You can also contact our office if you have any questions about how to keep your pet happy and healthy.

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Why Do Veterinarians use a Treatment Room?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Ever wonder why veterinarians need to take your pet to the back?  

We know it can upsetting to have your pet leave your side, but treatment rooms are an important part of every animal hospital.  Here are a few reasons why it's so important to bring your pet to the back for treatment.

Benefits to Your Pet:

• Calmer Care - Despite what you may think, pets are actually calmer when their not around their owners.  This makes it easier for veterinarians to care for your pet quickly and efficiently.
• Reduced Stress - Veterinary professions love animals and want to make sure that the procedure causes your pet as little stress as possible.  In the back, pets are always handled with respect and care, but it is easier to complete the procedure.
• Better Environment - In the back, veterinarians have better lighting, tables, and equipment.  This means that your pet is getting the care that they need!

Check out this great article for more information on understanding your vet visit.  If you have any questions, we are happy to answer them!

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Canine Leptospirosis in New York City

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Did you know that Leptospirosis is a disease than can affect people and their pets?  This bacterial infection can affect affect pets who come into contact with contaminated water.  Here are a few of the most common symptoms experienced by pets in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island areas.

Common Symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Anorexia
• Icterus
• Lethargy
• Diarrhea
• Polyuria/polydipsia
• Liver failture

If you notice that your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms, bring them in to one of our hospitals.  The veterinary staff at Paws and Claws Animal Hospital, The Cat Hospital, and 5th Avenue Cat Clinic can help you determine whether your pet has Canine Leptospirosis or another illness.  We can also help you prevent Leptospirosis by making sure that your pet is vaccinated against the disease.

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How to Celebrate a Pet-Friendly Holiday Season

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Will you be decorating your home for the holidays?  Make sure that your festive decorations are pet-friendly!  Here are a few holiday pet hazards to avoid.

Holiday Hazards:

• Tinsel - Sparkly tinsel and ribbons can attract your pet.  If you pet ingests these colorful decorations, they can get stuck in their digestive tract and may need surgery.  Keep these decorations out-of-reach of your pet.
• Mistletoe - Mistletoe is a common holiday decoration.  However, it can be toxic to pets.  If you want to decorate your home with mistletoe, just make sure it's in a place your pet can't reach it.
• Poinsettias - This holiday plant is also toxic to your pets when eaten.  
• Holiday Candles - Keep any candles high enough up where your pet cannot accidentally knock them over.
• Leftovers - It can be difficult to avoid giving your pet holiday left overs.  However, certain holiday foods can leave them with an upset stomach.  Be sure to avoid toxic ingredients like chocolate and other sweets!
• Christmas Tree - Do you have a live Christmas tree?  Make sure to not add fertilizer to the tree water.  If your cat or dog drinks the water, it can upset their stomach.  You should also make sure that glass ornaments are placed high where your cat cannot reach or break them.

For more tips on how to celebrate a pet-friendly holiday season, check out this article.  Remember to contact our office with any questions you have through the holidays.

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