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

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

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

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

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

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

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

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

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

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!  

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

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

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

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

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

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

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

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

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

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

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

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!

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

Wet vs. Dry Food

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Deciding on the right food for your pet can be tough.  There are hundreds of different brands, flavors, textures and varieties.  When it comes to choosing wet pet food or dry pet food -- which is the right one for your pet's needs?

Benefits of Wet Food:
Wet food helps your pet stay hydrated.  If your pet is reluctant to drink enough water, wet pet food might be the right choice for them.

It's also a great choice for older pets with missing teeth or poorly aligned jaws, who are more likely to eat foods that are richer in flavor.

Benefits of Dry Food:
It is much easier to store dry food.  It can be left out for your pet to eat at their own pace.  There is no need to worry about the food spoiling when left out.  It's fresh and cost-effective.  Some foods can even clean their teeth as your pet chews.

Consider your lifestyle and your pet's health needs when determining what type of pet food is best for your furry friend.  If you're still not sure, contact one of our offices below.  We can help you discuss any of your pet's dietary needs.

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!

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

How to Start Spring Off on the Right Foot (or paw)

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Hello, Spring! We're looking forward to spending time outside with our pets, soaking in the sun!  As we get ready for all of the activities that come with spring, we need to remember that with the change in seasons comes a new set of pet safety tips to keep in mind.  

We hope that these tips will help you start spring off on the right foot (or paw)!

Be Mindful When Gardening -  Certain popular spring flowers are poisonous to our furry friends.  Be careful when deciding what to plant in your garden or keep inside of your home.  Easter lilies, Chrysanthemums, Hydrangea, and Carnations are just a few of the flowers that can upset your pet's stomach.

Put Cleaning Products Away - Warmer days are perfect for spring cleaning, but don't forget to put your cleaners away!  Pet owners should also be mindful of what they are using to clean the floors and other surfaces that your pets might come into contact with on a regular basis.

Make Identification Simple with Microchips -  Now that your pets will be spending more time outside on walks, it's a good time to make sure that your pet is equipped with proper identification.  In the unfortunate event that your pet is lost, microchips help your pet return safely back to your family. 

Protect Your Pet Against Ticks and Fleas - It's tick and flea season!  Make sure your pet is protected with a preventative treatment before they head outside.

Be Careful When Using Fertilizers and Pesticides - Certain chemicals can be harmful for your pets.  If your lawn has recently been treated, 

keep your pet off of the grass.

Keep Your Pets Groomed - With the weather getting warmer, you'll want to keep your pets well groomed.  This will help them stay cool on hot days!

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!

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

Why Does My Pet Have Itchy Paws?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Itchy paws?  This is a common (and frustrating) problem among our furry friends.  

Here are a few of the most common reasons why your pet may be incessantly licking their paws.

Skin Parasites.  
If your pet is allergic to fleas and mites, even a single bite can cause a reaction.  It's important to have your pet checked for parasites.  They should be prescribed a preventative parasite medication, too, especially with spring right around the corner.

Food Allergies.
Have you recently added a new treat to your pet's diet?  Your pet may have a food allergy.  By replacing certain foods in your pet's diet for 8-12 weeks, you can determine if a food allergy is present.   We also do allergy testing in our office to better narrow down your results.

Dermatitis.
Atopic dermatitis is a skin diseases that is caused by environmental allergens, like dust and pollen.  If you notice that your pet is licking their paws during certain seasons, it could be due to an environmental allergy.  We can test your pet through skin test or blood sample to see what allergens he or she is allergic to.

Surface Allergies.
Your floor surfaces, lawn, patio, etc., are all topical surfaces your pet comes into contact with.  Your pet may be allergic to certain chemicals, lawn fertilizers, detergents, etc.!

If you notice that your pet is licking their paws frequently, it's best to bring your dog or cat into one of our offices to have them examined.  During a veterinary visit, we can help you determine the reason behind your pet's paw licking and help them find some relief.

f 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

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

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

Dog Biscuit Recipes for Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day!

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Happy Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day!

Although nobody seems to know the origins of this holiday, it's a great way to celebrate with your pet by making healthy treats for the occasion.  Here are a few DIY dog biscuit recipes you might want to try tonight.

Dog Biscuit Recipes:

Spinach, Carrot and Zucchini Dog Treats
Dog treats are notorious for having tons of extra calories.  This recipe is a little bit healthier than a biscuit you would buy in the store!

Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.  In a bowl, beat 1 cup pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup peanut butter, and 2 large eggs on medium high.  Then, you can gradually add 1/2 cup of old fashioned oats, and 2.5 cups of flour at a low speed.  Lastly, add 1/4 cup flour until the dough is no longer sticky.  Add 1 pealed carrot, 1 shredded zucchini, and 1 cup of baby spinach, beating until mixed.

On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough and use a rolling pin to roll into a 1/4 thick sheet.  Use your favorite cookie cutter shapes to cut out your biscuits and place them into the oven.  Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Visit this website for the complete recipe.

Blueberry Dog Biscuits
This recipe for blueberry dog biscuits has flax and blueberries with vitamins that are good for your growing pup.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.  In a large bowl, mix 1.5 cups oat flour, 2.5 cups quinoa flour, .75 cup flax meal, .5 cup frozen, unsweetened blueberries, .25 cup olive oil and one large egg.  Mix to form a dough and roll out the mixture between two sheets of plastic wrap.  Use a cookie cutter to make your biscuits.  Space biscuits about 1 inch apart and bake for 30 minutes, until brown.

View the complete Martha Stewart recipe here.

Peanut Butter Banana Dog Treats
Coconut oil has been shown to improve metabolism and overall wellness - so why not include some in your dog's next treat?

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and combine 3 cups of old fashioned oats, 2 ripe bananas, 1/4 cup of peanut butter and 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a bowl.  On a lightly floured surface, knead your dough mixture.  Use a rolling pin to roll the dough and cut the biscuits into your shape of choice.  Place in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are brown.

Visit this website for the complete recipe.

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

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

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest

Why Your Pet Needs an Annual Veterinary Exam

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

When was the last time your pet came into one of our offices?  

Annual vet check-ups are an essential part of your pet's health and wellness.   Although your pet may not be feeling ill, an annual exam will help catch any health problems early on, as well as prevent problems from affecting your pet. 

What should you cover in your pet's annual veterinary exam?

Physical Exam

During your pet's physical exam, we will check your pet's temperature.  The condition of their skin and coat is also a good indicator 

of your pet's health and diet. 

Fleas & Ticks

During your vet visit, we check for fleas, ticks and worm infestations.  We also offer treatments to prevent parasites and tips on how to check for them on a regular basis - especially if your pet spends a lot of time outdoors.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations help prevent certain diseases from affecting your pet.  It's important that your pet has their core vaccinations - especially their rabies vaccination.  The rabies vaccination is required annually or every 3 years, depending on the vaccine used. 

Dental Cleanings

February is National Pet Dental Health Month!  Your annual check-up is the perfect time to schedule a dental cleaning for your pet.  During a dental cleaning, we can check to see if your pet has any signs of gingivitis.  We can help prevent smelly dog breath!

Allergy Testing

You're not the only one suffering from allergies.  Dogs and cats can suffer from allergies.  You might notice your pet itching, licking or sneezing due to allergies.  We can perform an allergy test to determine the reason behind your pet's allergies, as well as offer suggestions on how to ease the symptoms.

If your pet is due for an annual exam, contact one of our offices 

below to schedule an appointment!

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!

Facebook - Twitter - YouTube - Pinterest