Think Twice Before Giving a Pet as a Gift this Holiday Season!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

If you’re considering buying one of your loved ones a pet as a gift this holiday season, there are a couple of things you may want to consider before doing so.

You may be thinking who wouldn't love a pet as a gift? Many people would be overjoyed to receive a pet; however, this gift comes along with a lot of responsibility! If you’re seriously considering bringing a pet into your home, take some time out to think about it and talk it over with your family.

Here are a few reasons why a pet may not be the best gift this Christmas:

• A return policy could put the animal’s life in danger
• It’s not a gift, it’s a responsibility
• Its long term
• It’s unfair to the pet and recipient
• Someone may be allergic
• The holiday season is busy enough
• Your kids’ responsibility may turn into your own
• How will the animal respond?

What do you think about giving pets as gifts? Let us know on our Facebook page, linked HERE. 

Did You Know November is Pet Diabetes Month?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Did you know November is pet diabetes month? If your pet has diabetes, you've probably come to realize how important it is to stay on top of your pet’s health.

Diabetes in pets, just like diabetes in humans requires time, dedication and lifelong maintenance. As a pet owner, there are a couple of things you can do to prevent your pet from developing diabetes. You should make sure your pet is eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly.

There are also a couple of signs to look for in your pets that could indicate early signs of diabetes. Those signs are unquenchable thirst, endless appetite and endless urination and accidents around the house.

If you have any questions or think your pet may be at risk for diabetes, call your veterinarians office. You can also post questions on our Facebook page, LINKED HERE! 

Did You Lose a Pet During Hurricane Sandy? Read Here!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Unfortunately during Hurricane Sandy, there were many pets that were lost. As many families are trying to recover from Sandy’s aftermath, many are missing their furry friends. If you’re in the New York City area, there are a couple of ways to help try and find your pet or report a found one.

Last week, a Facebook page was created called “Hurricane Sandy Lost and Found Pets”. This Facebook page became extremely popular overnight getting 21,500 LIKES as of this morning. Pet owners can use this site to upload photos of their pets and other information regarding their lost animal. The creators of the page are organizing posts of pets by state and animal type.

Here are a few other tips to follow if you lost or perhaps found a pet during this time:

•  If you find an animal, take it to a veterinarian's office or shelter to have it scanned for a microchip. This could speed up the reunion.
• Likewise, if an animal has a rabies collar, that would be registered to its regular vet.
• If you are able to take in the animal until its owner is found, that would be ideal, since most animal shelters in the area are filled past capacity at this time.
• Pet owners should fill out a Lost Pet Report on the Animal Care and Control (ACC) page of the New York City website.
• Lost and our found pet posters are still worth the effort- especially since power isn't restored in all areas affected by the storm. 

We hope that if anyone lost their pets during Hurricane Sandy, they're returned safely home to you! 

Pet Halloween Costume Ideas!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Take a look at these pictures of pets in their Halloween costumes! What are you dressing up your pets as this Halloween? Let us know on our Facebook page, linked HERE!

Do You Feed Your Pet Table Food?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

If you’re a pet owner, do you ever find yourself feeding those scraps from dinner? If you do, you need to think twice before giving them people foods! There are many people foods that can be dangerous to your pet’s health!

Here are a couple of foods that you should avoid giving your pets, courtesy of the ASPCA.

• Chocolate
• Coffee
• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Avocado
• Macadamia Nuts
• Grapes
• Raisins
• Yeast Dough
• Raw/Under cooked Meats
• Eggs
• Bones
• Xylitol (Found in gum, candy, baked goods, toothpaste)
• Onions
• Garlic
• Chives
• Milk
• Salt

To read the full article, CLICK HERE. 

If you have any further questions about your pets diet, contact your veterinarian or visit our Facebook page, LINKED HERE! 

Do You Have Questions About Your New Kitten?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Do you have a new kitten? Does your playful new kitten make it hard for you to get adequate rest at night? Or does your kitten mistake the living room carpet for its litter box?

If so, you’re not the only one who is having these problems due to the adorable kitten running around your home! Here are a couple of Q & A’s from other pet owners who are having the same troubles as you are! Q & A’s courtesy of newsday.com!

Q: My girlfriend and I got a kitten over the summer. He is now 5 months old. We cannot sleep at all anymore. He tears all over our apartment all night long and bounces on our bed over and over again. We put him on the floor and scold him but he is right back again 5 minutes later. There is not a cat toy on the planet that this animal does not have, so there is plenty to amuse him in the rest of the apartment. We are going to neuter him next month. Will that stop his behavior? Is there something else we can try? --Paul Richardson, Manorville

A: Neutering only removes an animal's desire to mate and any behaviors related to that. It certainly will not stop your cat from being happy that it is alive and wanting to share with you his joy in it.

Our cats usually sleep all day when we are not home, so their day is just beginning as ours is ending.

Your kitten has the whole night now to run and play and cannot understand why you do not want to join in. He figures that during the day you have been curled up somewhere sleeping as he has been. You just have to close the bedroom door at night and do not open it no matter what he does. Of course he will cry and throw himself at the door all night long for the first few nights, but after a week of this he will figure out that this behavior does not lead to anything. Only then will he look for some other amusement to keep him busy all night, and you can sleep in peace.

Q: I have a 5-year-old female spayed cat, and a friend has a 1 1/2-year-old sheltie. The dog is well-behaved and housebroken, but whenever the dog is brought to my house, he wants to urinate on everything. He is immediately corrected and brought outside, but as soon as he is brought back in he wants to repeat the process. I've tried "Off"-type sprays, but they do nothing. I think it is the cat's scent that triggers the dog's reaction. What can we do? --John Post,Aquebogue

A: You do not mention if the dog is neutered. This behavior is rare in neutered dogs. It is usually an intact male that feels the need to do this.

This is really not an issue of training. The dog is following a deep instinct. He is not even thinking about doing this -- it just happens. He has the opportunity to do it, and so he does. With careful management, you can deny him the opportunity. Keep the dog on a lead when he is in your house. Monitor him constantly so that when indoors he just gets used to the new smells without marking. You cannot let him out of your sight. If you cannot watch him, put him in a crate. As the weeks of this go on, he will become desensitized to all the smells of the different environment, and since he has not been able to act out the instinct of marking when he smells these things, he will no longer think it an option. The behavior will become extinct. Then you can gradually allow him his freedom again.

Do you have any other questions about your pets answered? Let us know on our Facebook page, LINKED HERE! 

Tips To Remember When Dressing Your Pet Up This Halloween!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Are you planning on dressing up your pet for Halloween this year? If so, it’s important to remember to pick a costume that is appropriate, safe and comfortable for your pet!

Experts at the ASPCA suggest that you only put a Halloween costume on your pet if he/she will enjoy it. If you do decide to dress your pet up for Halloween, there are a few important things you should remember!

The Halloween costume you choose for your pet should not constrict his/her movement, hearing or impede their ability to breathe, bark or meow. Try your pets costume on before Halloween, and if your pet seems to be in discomfort or stressed, it is best to ditch the costume all together.

Examine the Halloween costume you purchased for your pet and make sure there aren't any small, dangling or easily chewed off pieces that could cause harm to your pet. These small items may cause your pet to choke.

Under your pets Halloween costume, make sure their personal identification is secured and visible in case they are to get lost during Halloween festivities! 

Will you dress your pets up this Halloween? Let us know on our Facebook page, linked HERE! 

FAQ Answered About Grooming Your Pets!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Do you have any unanswered questions about grooming your pets? Here are a couple FAQ about grooming your pets answered, courtesy of the ASPCA.

How Often Should I Bathe My Dog?

The ASPCA recommends bathing your dog at least once every three months. Your pet may require more frequent baths if she spends a lot of time outdoors.

Is Human Shampoo Safe to Use on My Pet?

Using a shampoo formulated for pets is best. Human shampoos aren't toxic to pets, but some may contain fragrances or other substances that can irritate pets' skin.

Be sure to select a product that's specifically formulated for your species of animal, as some ingredients may be harmful when applied to different types of pets. It's always smart to talk with your pet's veterinarian to make sure you're selecting a shampoo that will meet your pet's needs.

Do I Need to Bathe My Cat? My Bird?

With her built-in grooming tools (tongue and teeth, of course), your kitty is well-equipped to tackle her own hair care needs. But if she's extra dirty or gets into something sticky or smelly, you may need to give her a bath.

As for your feathered friend, you can help keep his plumage looking perfect with a bath as often as he likes it. Put a shallow dish of water at the bottom of his cage and let him hop around in it. You'll probably want to schedule bath time just before you clean his cage!

When Do I Need to Call My Vet?

If your pet has fleas or mange, or his fur is so matted that it affects his health and mobility, it's time to see a vet. Furthermore, if your pet becomes aggressive when you or an experienced groomer tries to bathe him, please contact your vet.

My Pet Has Long Hair That's Frequently Matted. How Do I Get Rid of the Matting?

Gently tease out mats with a slicker brush, and then brush your pet with a bristle brush. If matting is particularly dense, you may try clipping the hair, taking care not to come near the skin. It's a good idea to set up a daily grooming routine for long-haired pets, since they really need daily brushing to remove tangles and prevent mats.

How Do I Cut Down on My Pet's Shedding?

Shedding is a normal process for pets, but the amount and frequency of hair lost often depends on health and breed type. While you can't stop the shedding process altogether, you can greatly reduce the amount of fur on your furniture by brushing your pet regularly.

Excessive shedding can also be circumvented with proper nutrition. Quality pet-food manufacturers work hard to include the right amount of nutrients so that supplements are not needed, but pets with allergies or sensitivities might need to experiment with different brands to discover which food works best for them.

For more useful tips about your pet’s health, visit www.aspca.org! 

The Importance of Vaccinating Your Pet!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

If you are a pet owner like me and have suffered through the illness of your pet, this blog is a must read. My boxer Rusty gave birth to an albino. I didn’t even have a chance to name the little chap before he died on me. I am not sure if I could have done anything to save him, but it still pinches me every now and then. Although this little story in really unrelated to pet vaccinations and the importance of it but this is my way of empathizing with the pain you suffer when your pet gets sick.

I cannot stress enough the importance of regular vaccinations and vet visits for your pet.  Regular vaccinations will safe guard your pet from fatal illnesses such as rabies or leptospirosis. Pet vaccinations will also protect your other pets from any contagious illnesses. Not only that, humans can contract life threatening illnesses from infected pets. Therefore it behooves us pet lovers to make sure that they get regularly checked and vaccinated by their vets.

A little tidbit of information: Dogs and cats are more likely to catch infections. In any case act before it is too late. I know what it is like to lose a beloved pet. For more information on vaccinations for your pets you can visit the “Vaccinate your pet” campaign online at www.VaccinateYourPet.com.

You can also contact The Bregman Veterinary Group for the best services ranging from routine vaccinations, dentistry procedures to feline boarding. Click on www.bregmanvet.com for more information.

If you haven’t already, vaccinate your beloved pet today!

The Truth About Cat People and Dog People!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Are you a cat or dog person? Most people align themselves with one of these animals and research shows that your preference can reveal a little about your personality! 62 percent of U.S. households own a pet, dogs being the most popular at 39 percent, but cats are a close second at 33 percent.  These pets are so common that if you do not own one, chances are someone you know does. 

Studies show that parents with young children are more likely to own a dog that the kids can take outside and play with, while older couples and single are more likely to have lower maintenance pets like cats.  Living space is another factor in what kind of pet we own. However, people really try and match their personalities to their pet.  It is found that dog people tend to be more extroverted, agreeable and conscientious, while self proclaimed cat people tend to be more creative and adventurous but more prone to anxiety.  

There is even a link between our pets and the way we vote. A 2008 Gallup survey of 2,000 Americans found that 33 percent of dog owners identified themselves as Republicans while only 28 percent of cat owners leaned to the right.  Other surveys have found the split more even. Cat people and dog people are equally likely to have a four year college degree, but cat lovers are 17 percent more likely to have a graduate degree. There are many differences between the two sides, but there are also many similarities.  

Which pet do you prefer and what does it say about you? Let us know on our Facebook page, linked HERE! 

Combine Blood Test with Vaccine for Cat’s Safety!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Many people get their cats vaccinated for the leukemia virus, distemper and rabies. However, many people don’t understand the reason to test the blood for the virus after.  Even if your cat stays indoors a majority of the year, it’s still important to both vaccinate and test.  The blood test suggested to check for leukemia also tests for FIV a very similar virus that cats can contract from other cats while outdoors. 

Both viruses can be quite problematic and eventually fatal for felines.  There is no known vaccination for FIV, and the blood test only comes as a combination test, which makes it essential, because if the cat has either virus it can easily spread it and should be kept indoors.  If the cat does not get out of the house much it should be tested once every two years, but conform your decision to your cat’s specific situation based on how often they come in contact with other cats and the amount of time they spend outdoors.  

Keep in mind that cats that leave the house less frequently are not exposed to as much pathogens as other cats and are likely to live longer healthier lives! 

How Do You Cat-Proof Your Home?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Are you thinking about bringing a new pet cat into your home? If so, you must be sure to “cat proof” your home! When purchasing a new pet, your first concern should be your pet’s safety in and out of the home.

Cats, just like many other pets, will eat almost anything they can get their hands on and play with a lot of household items that can be dangerous to their health.

Some of the most common items swallowed by cats are strings, yarn, dental floss, elastics and needle and thread. These items can do serious harm and damage to your cat and sometimes can even lead to fatal accidents.

In case of an accident or emergency, you should always have a first-aid kit set up for your cat if you can’t get to your veterinarians office immediately.

How do you cat-proof your home? Do you have any tips for bringing home a new pet? Let us know on our Facebook page, linked HERE! 

Heartworm: Are you worried about it?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

All dog owners worry about the health of their canine friend. Heartworms can be a dangerous disease they can catch. Heartworm can be transmitted from mosquitoes to dogs when the infected mosquito bites your dog and the heartworm larvae enters their body. Over time, the larvae mature and travel to the heart and lungs, where it can potentially lead to death.

With ProHeart 6, pet owners should have nothing to worry about.

A single injection by your veterinarian is all you need to protect your dog for six continuous months. This medication is proven safe in dos or varying sizes and breeds.

ProHeart 6 should be used, with caution, in dogs with pre-existing allergic disease, including previous vaccine reactions, food allergy, atopy, and flea allergy dermatitis. Dogs should be tested for heartworm disease prior to being treated with ProHeart 6. If your dog tests positive for adult heartworms, your veterinarian should treat the infection with the appropriate medication before administering ProHeart 6.

There are some possible side effects to using this medication. They range from lethargy, seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, pale/bleeding gums, and in some cases, may cause death. There could also be severe allergic reactions that could occur, like facial swelling, itching, difficulty breathing and possibly your dog collapsing. Be sure to keep a close eye on them for 24 hours after they have received this medication because any of the above mentioned signs could show that your dog is having a severe allergic reaction.

If you have any questions regarding this medication and want to get your dog checked for heartworm disease, please give us a call at one of our Bregman Vet Hospitals so we can see your pet right away and give them a thorough check up.

Lazy Pets Are Putting on Weight

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Some pets that you see lying around the house all day are very overweight and are eating too much food with no enough exercise. More than one in seven cats and dogs in the state of Ohio are obese or overweight, according to a new report.

 Pets that pack on the pounds are more likely to develop debilitating medical conditions that can reduce their quality of life and result in hefty veterinarian bills for owners (http://goo.gl/T0IhD).

According to experts on this issue, pet owners should learn to recognize the signs of animal obesity and help their pets get healthier through better eating habits and a lot more exercise.

Some owners gave their pets table scraps and without the proper exercise, the pounds can really add up. Pets that are obese have a greater chance of having arthritis, kidney disease and cancer, and these diseases can significantly shorten their life span.

Frequent trips to the vet, although checkups are always a mainstay, can become more costly if your pet is overweight as testing needs to be done, and that can really put a dent in your wallet. Pet prescriptions can also become very pricey, over a period of time.

Take your pet for a walk every day when you get home from work, or once you wake up in the morning. Not only will it benefit your pet, but it will also benefit you as well.

If you feel that your pet is too overweight or obese and need to see a doctor, call us at one of our Bregman Vet Hospitals and we can schedule an appointment to see your pet.

Pet ID Tags Get Great New Look

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP 

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

How many times have you had that feeling where you are calling your dog to come in from being outside and you get a little worried? You go outside to look for them and you notice that the backyard gate is slightly open and your pooch is strolling around the neighborhood. If that happens way too often, it’s time to invest in something that can help you find your pet quickly.

Issaquah-based company PetHub has produced link tags that include a QR code – the barcode-like symbol that can be scanned with a smartphone to load a website – and an address for an individualized web page, which the owner can update as needed. It’s like a Facebook profile for your pet, says PetHub founder Tom Arnold, a place to store and share information about an animal (http://goo.gl/f9dqj).

When PetHub won the Dog Fancy Magazine Editor’s Choice Award last December, it helped get their product out to the public. In the first three months of 2012, the company sold about 30,000 tags. The main purpose of these tags is to contact the owner if someone finds their pet, and to find out if the pet needs any specific medications. 

Starting today, these tags will have a hotline number to call where operators can help connect the person who found the stray dog to the owners. Although the tags that were sold before today’s date don’t have the number listed, the websites do.

If you have any questions about tracking devices for your pets, you can give us a call at one of our pet hospitals and we can assist you in any way possible.