Tips to Prevent Dog Bites

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

This week is National Dog Bite Prevention Week, so there’s no better time to talk about how you can keep your family, and canine friends safe and free from dog bites. Whether they’re small nips, or actual attacks, dog bites can be very harmful, with approximately 800,000 incidents requiring medical attention each year. Keep reading to find out our helpful tips for preventing bites.

Choose your pet carefully

Surprisingly, there is little evidence to show that dog biting is more common in some breeds than others, however you should still select your pet carefully. Before and after you choose your new dog, your vet is the best place to go for information on potential behavior, health, and suitability.

Introduce pets and children with care

Dogs and kids can become best of friends, but it’s important when you’re introducing any new member to your family that you take the steps to ensure a successful introduction. Always supervise your children’s interactions with dogs, including your own, and don’t put your dog in a position where he/she feels threatened or teased.

Keep your dog healthy and well-trained

Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are kept up to date to prevent the spread of diseases. Overall health care is important as it can impact the way your dog feels, and therefore his/her behavior. Training your dog (including basic commands like sit, stay, no, and come) is also important in developing an obedience bond. Avoid rough games like tug of war or wrestling.

Be responsible

Lastly, being a responsible pet owner is one of the most important things you can do to prevent dog bites. Obey leash laws, make sure your fence and gate are secure, and walk/exercise your dog regularly to stimulate their minds. Also consider having your dog spayed/neutered, as research has suggested that this may be beneficial in behavior control.

You can find more information on dog bite prevention from the AVMA here, and please contact us if you have any questions we can help answer.

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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It's National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

You probably have a plan for your family in case of a natural disaster… but what about your pets?

It’s just as important to ensure that your pets will be safe and healthy in case of an emergency, and with hurricane season approaching fast, now is the time to get ready, and here’s how:

No pet left behind

If it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for your pet. If you have to evacuate, ensure you bring them with you or find a suitable shelter or foster home for them until you can return home again. Ensure that whoever is looking after your pet is prepared to take on the responsibility, and provide them with a cheat sheet including feeding times, any medications required, and behavior issues, as well as your vet’s name and number.

Alert rescue workers that there are pets in your home

Just in case there’s an instance where your pet does get left behind, the ASPCA supplies free rescue alert stickers to advise rescue workers that there’s animals inside. Make sure you fill them out entirely, and place them on or near your front door for easy visibility. In case of an evacuation, if time permits, make sure you write EVACUATED on the sticker. You can order them for free here.

Prepare your disaster kit

Make sure you have a fully equipped disaster kit for your pets too, and store it close to your front door. It should include food, water, medications, photos of your pets, and sturdy leashes. The Humane Society has a printable PDF of everything your disaster kit should include right here on their website.

Practice makes perfect

Once you have your disaster plan in place, conduct a run through with your family to make sure that all of you (including the furry members) make it through safely.

Click here for more information on preparing for natural disasters in Nassau County, and click here for New York City.

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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Heartworm Awareness Month

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

WHAT IS HEARTWORM DISEASE?

Heartworm disease is caused by foot-long worms that live in the heart, 

lungs and blood vessels of an affected animal.  If untreated, this 

disease is serious and potentially fatal. 

 You may notice that your dog has a persistent cough, is reluctant 

to exercise, shows signs of fatigue after moderate activity, or has 

a decreased appetite.  These are all symptoms that your pet is not 

feeling well and may be suffering from heartworms.  

That's why it's so important the pet owners take preventative steps to avoid heartworms from affecting pets.  We remind all pet owners to take a few preventative steps this 

spring to protect your furry friends.

HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOUR PET?

Monthly heartworm preventatives work by eliminating the early stages 

of the heartworm parasite.  In the event that your pet is bitten by a mosquito 

(as we move into the warm summer months), the heartworm preventative 

will kill the heartworm before it develops into an adult and harms your pet.  

It is important that your pet has a monthly heartworm preventative 

that is administered on a  strict schedule.

Your dog should also be tested annual for heartworm infections.  This will help catch any problems early on.  During your routine visit, we can check your dog with testing to make sure that your pet is happy and healthy.  

The American Heartworm Society recommends that puppies under 7 months of age start on heartworm prevention and are tested 6 months later (and then annually through adulthood) to ensure that they are heartworm free.

If you have any questions about heartworm disease or monthly heartworm preventative medications, contact one of our offices.  We are happy to answer any questions 

you have about your pet's health.

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 Earth Day with Eco-Friendly Pet Care Tips

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Happy Earth Day from all of us at Bregman Vet Group!

Today, we are all looking for ways to give back and make our lives a little bit more eco-friendly - but what about your pets?  How do we reduce the environmental impact of our four-legged friends?  Here are a few tips to help you "green" pet care.

Eco-Friendly Pet Care Tips:

• Spay or Neuter Your Pet - There are 70,000 puppies and kittens born every day in the United States.  In order to prevent homeless animals, it's important to have your pet spayed or neutered.  As an added bonus, spaying and neutering will help your pet live a longer, healthier life.  The process reduces or eliminates the possibility of uterine, ovarian, and testicular cancer.
• Choose Natural and Organic Pet Foods - These pet food products use meats from animals that are raised under sustainable conditions. They're better for the environment and don't contain pesticides, hormones, or artificial preservatives.  Just make sure that they meet USDA guidelines!
• Clean Up After Your Pet - We love to take our pets on walks on nice days, but remember to clean up afterwards.  Carry a plastic bag with you so that you can pick up your dog's poop.  You can even opt for a biodegradable poop bag so that the products will eventually break down.
• Choose Sustainable and Recycled Products - Buy pet toys that are made from sustainable or recycled materials.  Instead of using new, raw materials to make your toys, you'll have more eco-friendly toys for your pet to play with.

Do you have any questions about your pet's health or how to make your pet care a little bit more environmentally friendly?  Give us a call our schedule an appointment at one of our offices below.  We're happy to help!

The Cat Hospital

877-228-4131

5th Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

718-782-8387

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National Pet ID Week

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

It's so important that our pets are easily identifiable.  According to the American Humane Association, over 10 million dogs and cats are lost every year.

Does your pet have a microchip?

In the unfortunate event your cat or dog finds their way out of your home, microchips improve their chances of returning safely back home.

What is a microchip?

A microchip is a a small chip that is implanted under your pet's skin.  Don't worry- the microchip doesn't hurt your pet!  This microchip provides a permanent ID for your pet. Unlike collar tags that can become loose and fall off, microchips will always serve as a means of identifying your pet.  If your pet is found the chip will be scanned and provide your name, address and phone number to the vet clinic or animal shelter that has your pet.

Once your pet is microchipped - you're all set!  Microchips are designed to last the lifetime of your pet.  However, pet parents can check to make sure the microchip is working by asking for a scan during your annual checkups.

Always keep your microchip information up-to-date.  
Microchip contact information is stored in a database.  National Pet ID Week is the perfect time to check your contact information and make sure that it is up-to-date.

Protecting your pet with a microchip can help prevent heartbreak.  Interested in learning more about microchips?  Schedule an appointment at one of our practices.  We are here to answer any questions you have about microchipping and your pets' health.

The Cat Hospital

877-228-4131

5th Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

718-782-8387

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National 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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Introducing Our NEW Home Delivery Program!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

We are excited to announce our NEW online proxy store!  

With the convenience of home delivery, you can have your pet care essentials shipped and delivered right to your doorstep!

Sign up for any of our home delivery programs for easy pet care:

The Feed Me™ program auto ships your pet's food directly to your home.  There is no need to head out to the store to pick up your pet's food.  This is perfect for pet owners who have limited access to transportation, have a busy schedule, or just want the added convenience of home delivery.

The Remind Me™ program to AutoShip a single dose of your pet's flea, tick, and Heartworm prevention every month on the day they need to be given.  Your pet will get the year-round care that they need with this simple reminder.

Ready to set up your home delivery?  Click on your veterinary hospital below:

The Cat Hospital

5th Avenue Cat Clinic 

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

Reunion Veterinary Hospital

Veterinary Hospital of Celebration

If you have any questions about how to enroll in our new home delivery program, please contact the veterinary hospital you bring your pet to.  We are happy to help you set up your AutoShip orders!  

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Celebrate National Pet Day!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Happy National Pet Day!  It's almost time to finally get home to your furry friends after a long Monday.  Here are a few ideas to help you celebrate.

Celebrating National Pet Day:

• Give Your Pet a Bath - We know that baths are not every pet's favorite activity, but it helps keep your furry friend clean and healthy.
• Watch a Pet-Friendly Movie - Relax after a long day with your favorite pet-themed movie.  Air Bud, Aristocats, Ratatouille, and Homeward Bound are just a few ideas on what you can watch with your furry friend.
• Give Them Some Extra Love - Show your pet just how much you care with a long belly rub or playful exercise.  Spend some time throwing a ball with your dog or playing with your cat and their laser pointer.  It's a great way to give your pet some exercise and spend some time bonding with your pet.
• Take Photos of Your Pet - Take a few photos of your pet to remember the day.  Don't forget to share them with us, too!
• Give Them A Treat - Make your own DIY treat or try a store bought version of your pet's favorite treat to make them feel a little bit more special.  Just remember not to overfeed your pet.  Treats can be high in calories!
• Schedule An Exam - When was your pet's last veterinary visit?  Regular checkups help us catch problems early on, and help your pet live a long, happy and healthy life.

If your pet is due for an annual exam, vaccine, or flea and tick prevention, schedule an appointment at 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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How to Travel with Your Cat

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Planning a spring break getaway?  If you plan on bringing your feline friend along for the ride, here are a few tips to help you travel safely and comfortably.

How to Travel Safely:

By Car:
Keep your cat in a carrier.  It probably isn't surprising that cats aren't comfortable traveling in cars.  Since cats like confined places like a carrier, they will actually feel safer and more comfortable.  Your driving safety also won't be impaired, and you'll be able to drive comfortably knowing that your cat is safe and secure.  For added safety, use a seat belt to secure your carrier so that it doesn't bounce around and hurt your pet.  

If you're planning a long road trip, be sure to plan plenty of rest stops so that your cat has room to exercise and go to the bathroom.  Before you let your pet out, be sure that your cat has a collar, id tag, and leash.  

Never leave your pet alone in the car!  Even in the spring, cars can reach up to 116 degrees in just an hour.  The temperatures are even more drastic in the summer.  This is a year-round hazard.

By Plane:
If you plan on flying with your pet, you'll need to check with the airline to find out if your pet can travel in the cabin with you.  Most airlines will allow you to take your cat in the cabin for an additional fee.  Make sure that your pet has ID and a leash, so that you can keep your pet safe and secure while the carrier is being checked by security.  You can also request special screenings that won't require you to take your cat out of the carrier.

If you can't travel with your pet, we offer feline-only boarding services.  This ensures that your cat has a safe and enjoyable experience while you are away. You can relax and rest assured that your feline family member is in safe hands.  Contact one of our offices directly to learn more about our boarding services.

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 Your Pet Needs a Rabies Vaccine

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Is your pet protected against rabies?  

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

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

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

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

The Cat Hospital

877-228-4131

5th Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

718-782-8387

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Why Do Cats Love Cardboard Boxes?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

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

What Makes Cardboard So Intriguing:

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you're curious about your cat's behavior, or you have any questions about your cat's health, contact on of our offices below:

The Cat Hospital

877-228-4131

5th Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

718-782-8387

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National Take a Walk in the Park Day

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

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

Near Park Slope:

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

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

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

Near Williston Park:

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

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

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

If you have any questions about your pet's health today or any day, please contact one of our offices below:

The Cat Hospital

877-228-4131

5th Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

718-782-8387

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Pet Owners Need to Protect Against Ticks in an Urban Environment

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

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

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

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

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

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

The Cat Hospital

877-228-4131

5th Avenue Cat Clinic

718-398-1187

Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital

718-782-8387

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

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