Spring Preparation

As the seasons begin to change and winter fades into Spring, and the April showers start to bring May flowers, it’s time to start getting your furry friend ready too. They will be happy with the weather and the rains will mean fresh new grass to run and play on. As a pet owner though, you want to ensure their health as head into Spring.

Slowly Increase Exercise

Depending on your locations winter, your pet may have been less active than normal. This could have lead to weight gain and a decreased level of energy. Encourage them to take things slowly as quickly getting back into being highly active or exercising could lead to injuries. If you plan to start outdoor exercise consider including your pet.

Yard Inspections

Winter season can be harsh, and depending on your location can affect your yard in a variety of ways. To ensure your pets safety give your yard a good overall inspection. Check for debris, fallen tree branches, trash, debris, and anything that could pose a danger to your furry friend.

Seasonal Allergies

If winter season where you are was above average on snow/rain then you could be experiencing allergies all ready. Just like you, pets are not immune and may show signs too. Unlike humans, pet allergies manifest through their skin so be on the lookout for excessive scratching and licking. If you see signs be sure to schedule an appointment for a Veterinary visit.

Prevention

As the weather warms those fleas and ticks that made it through winter will be back in full force. Along for warm up ride, mosquitos and Heartworm which can be carried by them. If you have not taken the steps to treat your pet with a preventive Heartworm, Flea, and Tick medication then now is the time.

Now that all that has been covered, it’s time to have some fun! Start enjoying the warmer weather with pet playtime and walks!

Preparing Your Pet For Flea & Tick Season

As the warm weather makes its way in for the summer it’s time to start thinking about protecting your pets from those pesky summer pests. Fleas and ticks can cause a host of different problems for your pet including infections and disease. Thankfully we can help to make sure these little buggers won’t mess with your summer fun and pet walks!

Tips for keeping your pets safe from fleas and ticks

• Collars

Tick collars are a good option and can be most effective at protecting the head and neck area. After attaching the collar ensure it is not too tight and allows for adequate room to breather. Also, follow up and check for signs of irritation or reactions to the collar.

• Flea & Tick treatments

Spending time outdoors with your pet means a higher level of exposure to fleas and ticks. Using a preventive treatment can help to reduce the chance of bites and infection. Consult with your veterinarian  about which treatments would best be suited to your pet.

• Wandering

Keep the amount of time your pets spend wandering through high grass and wooded areas to a minimum. Try keeping them in grassy areas that are well maintained. Also going for walks on sidewalks or trips to the beach are all great options for time outdoors.

• Lawn care

With a properly maintained lawn you can help with keeping fleas and ticks to a minimum. By trimming your lawn and bushes you help prevent spots for ticks to be, thus reducing the number in your yard. You may also consider a lawn treatment if you find areas on your property that have a concentration of ticks. You must exercise caution though as these treatments could be harmful to your pets.

• Be vigilant 

If your pet does spend a regular amount of time outdoors, be sure to check them daily for any signs of fleas and ticks. Keeping your pet’s coat shorter during the summer months can also aid with spotting the elusive little buggers on them.

While fleas and ticks can be a nuisance to you and your pets, following these helpful tips can help reduce the chances of picking them up. Always be sure to consult your Veterinarian regarding health topics for your pets and any preventive treatments you may be considering for them!

Does Your Pet Suffer From Allergies?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

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Did you know that pets can develop allergies too?  When sensitive pets are exposed to certain allergens, they may experience a number of skin, digestive and respiratory symptoms.  Here are a few of the common allergens we test for through Nelco Vet.

Common Allergens:

• Grasses
• Weeds
• Trees
• Mold Spores
• Foods
• Dust Mites
• House Dust
• Fleas
• Epidermals

If a test determines that your pet has an allergy, there are several treatment options available.  Depending on the allergen, you may be able to remove the substance from your pet’s environment.  If it is impossible to avoid the allergen, we can recommend the best way to safely relieve your pet’s symptoms.

We are offering a promotion through Nelco Vet this allergy season.  For a limited time, pet owners can receive a 20% discount on allergy testing and a 10% discount on oral spray.  Contact Bregman Vet Group for promotion details.

Springtime Pet Safety

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

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Springtime means warmer weather and more time spent outdoors.  As you get ready for the change in seasons, remember to keep your pet’s safety in mind.  The ASPCA offers a few seasonal tips to keep your pets safe this spring.

Spring Safety Tips:

• Easter Candy – Chocolates and candies are toxic to most pets, including cats and dogs.
• Window Screens – As the weather warms you want to open your windows to let fresh air in.  Make sure that you have screens in your windows to keep pets from falling or jumping outside.
• Cleaning – Spring is a great time to clear clutter and clean your home.  Remember to keep cleaners and chemicals away from your pets.  Don’t leave home improvement products like paints, nails, staples and power tools out in the open.
• Gardening – Many popular springtime plants are highly toxic to pets, including rhododendrons, azaleas, and Easter lilies.  Pet parents should also be careful when using fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides on their lawns and gardens. 
• Allergies – A change in seasons brings about allergy problems for both you and your pet.  If you notice your pet might have springtime allergies, bring them to our office!

Read more about springtime safety tips on the ASPCA website.  You can also contact our office with any questions or concerns you have about your pet’s health!

Spring Pet Precautions

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Photo Source: Flickr / Tambako the Jaguar

Happy spring!  Now that the days are longer and the weather is getting warmer, it’s time to start thinking

about preparing your pet for the spring.  We want to remind pet owners to get their pets ready for the change in season before heading outside.

Spring pet precautions:

• Heartworm Prevention – Warmer weather means mosquito season.  Heartworms that are spread through mosquito bites are very dangerous to pets.  Once the temperature hits 55F, we recommend that pet owners take preventative steps.
• Flea and Tick Prevention – Before taking your pet on a nature walk, make sure that they are on preventative medication.  Fleas and ticks are difficult to get rid of and can carry a number of diseases, including Lyme Disease.
• Seasonal Allergies – Pets can suffer from allergies too!  Instead of getting a stuffy nose, your pet might scratch more often or experience ear troubles.  If your pet is exhibiting any symptoms, be sure to bring them into our office for a checkup.
• Exercise Warm Up – You probably didn’t spend a lot of time with your pet outside in the cold winter months.  Just like us, pets tend to gain weight in the winter.  Exercise is good, but be aware of increasing exercise too quickly to avoid injury. 
• Microchips – If your pet is going to be spending more time outdoors, consider getting a microchip.  This is a great way to identify your pet in the event they get lost.  We offer free microchips with any regularly priced spay or neuter!

Learn more about how you can care for your pet this spring.   Contact one of our offices to bring your pet in for a checkup and to take preventative steps for their health. 

Get Into the Spirit of Spring with your Pets!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Do you need help getting into the spring spirit? We can help!

We've got a couple of activity ideas to help you and your pets swing into spring!  All you need to do is collect your pets and head outdoors!

Let us know what springtime activities you enjoy with your pets on our Facebook page!

Enjoy a frozen treat with your furry friend – Spring is a great time to bring back frozen treats! They taste much better in warm weather! So, the next time you stop for an ice cream cone or Popsicle, pick up a pet-friendly frozen treat for your pooch!

Spend quality time at the park – Although this is a simple activity, the park is always a great place to bring your pets. It’s also a great place to sit back, relax and take in the beautiful sights of spring!

Gardening – Gardening with your pup or feline friends is a great way to get into the spring spirit. Bring your pets along outside with you while you check your gardening tasks off one by one!

Get fit – It’s almost swimsuit season! So, as you’re trying to shed those last few pounds, bring your pets along! Go for a long run or walk and bring the pets along! Exercise is great for all!