How to Ease Separation Anxiety in Dogs

 

Bringing a new dog into your home is one of the most exciting times for you and your family. As they quickly become integrated in your life and their new home, chances are you won’t have time to spend with them 24/7. While you may think that leaving your four-legged new best friend is difficult for you, especially in the beginning, separation anxiety could be extremely traumatic and scary for your dog. It’s important not to feel hopeless if you notice any signs that your dog is struggling from separation anxiety, but instead arm yourself with tips, tricks, and knowledge so you and your dog can feel more at ease.

 

Signs of separation anxiety in dogs

 

There are many tell-tale signs that your dog is having issues with separation anxiety but if you have never had a pet before or if some of these behaviors are foreign to you, you may not notice right away. Some of the top signs include:

• Pacing and getting nervous when you are getting ready to leave the house, head for the door, start putting on your shoes, or grab your keys.
• A burst of over-the-top energy and joy every time you come home or walk through the door.
• Destroying furniture and things like shoes and blankets around the house while you’re gone.
• Claw marks on the door or chew marks on the corner of end tables while you’re gone.
• Barking and howling persistently while you’re gone (you’ll likely know if you have close neighbors or a camera you can monitor when you are gone)
• Signs of escaping like digging and chewing through doors and windows.
  

Tips and tricks to help ease the anxiety

 

Since it is not likely that you will be able to spend every minute with your dog, there are a few tips you can have up your sleeve to help if you begin to notice signs of separation anxiety. One great way to reinforce calm behavior is to make your comings and goings low-key without a lot of greeting. Another is to give your dog a special treat when you leave (remember to take it away when you get home, so it’s associated with the absence of you). Finally, try leaving some recently worn clothes out that smell like you.

Reasons why dogs may suffer from separation anxiety

 

While not every pup suffers from separation anxiety, it is important to know that this is a common problem that many dogs experience. The ASPCA states that some of the top reasons why dogs develop separation include:

 

• Change of guardian or family: especially for older dogs that were abandoned and/or adopted from a shelter. 
• Change in schedule: abrupt changes in your work schedule, time away from home, and/or other major life changes can be startling for your pup. 
• Change in residence: you know how stressful moving can be for humans, imagine how disorienting it can be for dogs as well.
  

In addition to life changes, there may be something more serious underlying where their behaviors that you notice are actually caused by medical problems. If you notice extreme behavior or are concerned about how your dog is acting, it’s important that you consult your veterinarian. If you need to schedule an appointment with the Bregman Veterinary Group, click here to get started!

3 Signs That Your Cat Might Be Sick

 

Cats are naturally independent animals that don’t need as much attention as more active pets like hyper dogs. Cat attitudes range from recluse and quiet to vocal and playful and you’ll notice early on by how your cat interacts with you and others in your home. Since these stoic pets sometimes hide their discomfort when they are feeling sick, it’s important to get to know your cat and their habits early on so you can detect if something is off at any point.

Change in behavior

Since cats are creatures of habit, it’s easy to settle into a routine quickly once you bring them home. If you happen to notice that their behavior is changing, it’s important you take notice. One behavioral change that can be alarming is if you have a quiet cat that becomes vocal all of a sudden or even noticeable more frequently than before. This type of increased vocalization with more meows than usual may signal that your cat is in pain or uncomfortable. Another behavioral change to pay attention to is in terms of socialization. Some cats love attention and affection and if you and your cat are very friendly you will likely notice if they become shier and more disconnected. This decreased level of socialization could be a sign that something is wrong, especially since cats in general tend to avoid socializing when they aren’t feeling well.

Change in appearance

Cats are meticulous groomers and love to keep their fur nice and clean. Pay attention if you notice that your cats grooming habits are changing. One sign that they aren’t feeling well is if they look a bit unkempt with a greasy / oily coat and more matting than normal. When cats are uncomfortable or too tired, they may cut back on taking care of themselves. On the other hand, if you begin to notice bald spots or red / irritated skin this is a sign that they are over grooming. This can be caused by a variety of things from allergies and change of medicine to anxiety and other illnesses.

Change in weight

Every pet owner knows that keeping your pet at a healthy weight by feeding them a balanced diet is important. Since you are in charge of feeding them, you’ll likely notice when your pet is refusing to eat or is overeating. According to the ASPCA, cat weight loss, which can happen quickly or over a more extended period of time, and rapid weight gain can be signs your cat is sick.

When in doubt, consult your veterinarian

The CDC reports that nearly 40 million households in the United States have pet cats, and this number has been growing rapidly ever since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic when people were looking for companionship. With more people becoming pet owners now than ever before, it’s important to educate yourself before bringing your pet home with the best practices for keeping them safe, healthy, active, and happy. If you notice any of the changes listed above or if you suspect your cat might be sick, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. If you need to schedule an appointment with the Bregman Veterinary Group, click here to get started!

How to Crate Train Your Puppy

 How to Crate Train Your Puppy

Getting a new puppy is an exciting time for families and pets alike, but it’s important to remember that the transition can be overwhelming to even the friendliest pups. Training your new pet early on is important to setting them up for success in their new home. Since your home is foreign to the pup, introducing your dog to a crate and getting them trained to treat that crate like their own safe haven has amazing benefits. Even though crate training can make pet owners feel guilty, these shelters can quickly become awesome training tools and comfortable hideouts if you approach the training the right way. Before your pup comes home, make sure you buy a crate that is the right one for your dog. Do your research regarding the type of crate and size and make sure to have it at home before they join the family so it’s part of their environment from the very beginning.

Ensure your mindset and attitude is always positive

Pets can tell when we have strong emotions like anger and sadness, and they will often mimic those feelings or react to them. This means that if you have an uncomfortable or anxious mindset when it comes to crate training, chances are that your pet will too. Instead, establish a relaxed mindset and encourage your pup to experience the crate during happy moments with you nearby and the crate door open so they see it as a place of rest and fun.

Make the crate a cozy space

It’s important to make your pets crate a comfortable home for them, but keep in mind that young pups tend to be mischievous. Some puppies like to rip apart pee pads and dig into dog beds so try a few different options including dog beds, towels, and blankets. Some dogs do prefer hard cold surfaces, especially when they are warm so try not to overstuff the crate.

Reward your dog after they go into the crate

If you are positive about the experience, your pet will feel much more comfortable and less reluctant about going into the crate. Rewarding your pup with a small treat after they spend time in the crate and/or go in by themselves is a great way to positively reinforce that the crate is a safe space that you would like them to spend time in. Try out one of American Kennel Club’s trick’s and give your pup a KONG toy filled with peanut butter that has been put in the freezer if you’re looking for a fun way to keep them occupied for a while. This delicious treat has to be worked down due to it being frozen and it gives them a fun activity to enjoy while inside their new safe haven.

Vary the amount of time your pup is in the crate

It’s important to approach crate training in small steps and therefore you won’t want to leave them there for long periods of time, especially in the beginning. Try small steps like 20–30-minute stints in the crate before you leave them for longer. Make sure that your pet has plenty of time to exercise and has lots of human interaction so they don’t become depressed or anxious. Don’t forget to reward them when you come back so you reinforce that they did a good job.

Make sure the crate is not a punishment

While these tips are great ways to help encourage your pup to like and feel comfortable in their crate, the most important rule of thumb is to make sure your dog does not feel trapped, scared, or frustrated in the crate. The Humane Society states that while crates can be used to manage a behavior, they should never be used for punishment. If you are adopting a new puppy and need to schedule a veterinary appointment, our team at Bregman Veterinary Group is here to help. At Bregman Veterinary Group we make it our mission to help you determine the best course of action for your pet from the very beginning so that they can live long, healthy lives. To schedule an appointment for your new pup, click here to get started. 

Top Pets for Children

 

Having a childhood pet is a great way to not only learn about responsibility and routine, but it is also amazing for companionship. While dogs and cats are certainly the most popular pets for kids, there are a few others that are great options for young children. From guinea pigs and rabbits to fish and reptiles, here are some of the top pets for children.

 

Dogs

 

Dogs are the most popular animals owned by pets in the US by far with over 48 million households owning at least one dog. For young children, dogs can be amazing companions and do wonders at helping them learn responsibility from an early age. When selecting the right breed for you, it is important to consider the amount of time you have to dedicate to spending with your new pet and bring home a dog that best fits your lifestyle.

Cats

 

Cats are the second most popular pet in the US and they are popular among families for the companionship they bring. With a wide variety of breeds and a lower maintenance lifestyle than dogs, cats can be great pets. If you aren’t sure which cat would work best for you, there are plenty of great articles like this one from the AVMA.

Fish

 

While many people think fish are the perfect starter pet for a child, it’s important to know that not just any fish will do. According to Healthline, goldfish may seem like the most obvious choice, but they’re actually more difficult to raise than the Siamese fighting fish (AKA Betta fish). Betta fish thrive best in small aquariums with at least two gallons of water that is regularly changed and are low in maintenance compared to other fish.

 

Guinea Pigs

 

Guinea pigs are among the most popular pets for kids, mainly due to their small size and manageable care requirements. These adorable and calm pets generally enjoy being around humans and will actively engage and interact with humans. Since they’re willing to sit calmly in a child’s lap and will even vocalize their excitement when their favorite human is around, they make for social and fun pets. Given that they are small creatures, it’s important to supervise your children around guinea pigs and teach them to be gentle and careful handling these furry pets.

 

Reptiles

 

When people think of getting a new adorable pet, reptiles aren’t often the first type of pet that comes to mind, but some cold-blooded creatures make amazing pets. As an added bonus, reptiles are non allergenic but it’s important to keep in mind that the American Academy of Pediatrics warns against reptiles as pets for very young children because they can easily transmit salmonella. Whether you’re interested in a pet turtle or snake, there are plenty of fun reptiles to consider.

 

Rabbits

 

Bunny rabbits are not only adorable animals with fun personalities, but they also make for incredibly friendly and playful pets. From the Flemish giant rabbit which can grow up to 15 points to the Holland Lop which averages around 3 pounds, there are dozens of popular breeds to choose from. Since rabbits require supervised exercise and need regular socialization, they’re great pets for older responsible children.  

 

Caring for your new pet

 

It’s important to remember that when considering a pet that’s right for you and your family, you accept responsibility for the health and welfare of another living thing. The AVMA suggests that you consider the costs associated with caring for your new pet, how long will you be away from your pet, who will care for your pet in your absence, are you able to provide the amount of attention your pet will need, and more. Click here to learn how the AVMA suggests you go about selecting the perfect pet for you and your family.  

 

If you are adopting a new pet and need to schedule a veterinary appointment, our team at Bregman Veterinary Group is here to help. At Bregman Veterinary Group we make it our mission to help you determine the best course of action for your new pet from the very beginning so that they can live long, healthy lives. To schedule an appointment, click here to get started.

How to Approach a Lost Dog

 

Summer is around the corner and with plenty of beautiful sunny days, it’s natural to spend more time outside with your pets. Since doors are left open more often to let in fresh air and accidents happen where dogs can get loose from their leash, pups sometimes get loose and need help finding their homes. If you find a lost dog, it may feel unnerving to figure out what to do, but there are a few simple steps to follow so you make sure you and the pup are safe and you’re doing all you can to help them find their home.

Walk towards the dog slowly

Being lost and away from home / owners can be extremely stressful and scary for a dog and therefore their reactions may be hard to predict. Rather than immediately rushing towards the dog and grabbing for their collar, it’s important that you first pay attention to their body language and then approach them slowly with your body turned to the side. The American Kennel Club says that this approach is less intimidating and should be followed by a squat down and reach out of your hand so the dog can smell you.

Calmly encourage the dog to come towards you

Similar in how you approach, the lost dog will be watching and judging your every move. It’s important that when you get close to the pup you remain calm and smooth with your actions. If you have any treats handy, try using those to coax the dog closer. Only once they are within reach and physically calm and seemingly relaxed should you reach for the collar and slip on a leash.

Take a photo or video if you can’t approach

Sometimes lost pups can be too scared and/or too stressed to allow you to approach them. In these cases, the best thing you can do is to take a photo or video of the animal so you can provide a better description and try to help the pups’ owners solve the mystery. It’s important that you watch for signs of aggression like stiff body language, bared teeth, and hair that is standing on end so that you don’t get too close to an aggressive and potentially dangerous dog.

If you feel uncomfortable or threatened by the animal, the best thing you can do is call for help. Calling your local animal shelter or police department will help this dog get to safety and is a step in the right direction to helping them locate their home.

What to do if your pup is the one that goes missing

When pets are lost the AVMA recommends that you follow some very specific steps to try and locate your pet. One recommendation is to physically check animal control and animal shelters daily. Another recommendation is to post waterproof lost animal notices and notify local law enforcement, animal care, veterinarians, and your neighbors (you may even want to check Facebook or other online resources for your local area where they have lost pet boards). Finally, they recommend that if your pet has a microchip, you should notify the microchip registry that your animal is missing.

If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of microchips or the best tips to keeping your dog safe, your veterinarian can help. To schedule an appointment for your pup at Bregman Veterinary Group, click here to get started!

4 Tips To Train A Shy Cat

Known as being independent and lovable creatures, it’s no wonder cats are among the most popular house pets. In fact, an average of one in three households in the United States (37 million total) has at least one pet cat with an average of two cats per household. With millions of pet cats living in the States, it’s important for pet owners to know the top tips and tricks to train them and keep them healthy and safe. 

 

While many cats are playful and outgoing, some have more shy personalities. It’s normal to feel anxious when training a shy cat, especially because you aren’t familiar with their behaviors under pressure or in social situations. Here are a few top tips to help you train your introverted kitty so you can help your cat relax and ease into being more social. 

 

Give your cat a safe place to hide

 

If your cat shows signs of being scared or timid around people or in a new environment, giving them a place to hide and feel comfortable can help put them at ease. Giving your cat dark and safe refuges where they can escape will help them calm down quicker and feel more comfortable in your home.

 

Remain gentle and calm when you’re around them

 

Quick and fast motions can stress out any animal regardless of their temperament but can be especially stressful around an already anxious cat. It’s important as you are training them and helping them ease into a new environment or feel more comfortable around people that you are calm, patient, and sensitive to their needs. If you have young children who will be spending a lot of time around your shy cat, it’s important to teach them to do the same to help alleviate unnecessary stress. 

 

Encourage your cat to approach you

 

Rather than chasing or calling for your cat, a better approach may be to let them come to you. While you are peacefully sitting or are laying down at home, keep space around you open for them to approach if they want to. You may even want to give a small treat when they approach so they can associate the experience with a positive reward and as a non-threatening one. Over time you can space out the time between the approach and the treat to encourage a lengthier visit.

 

Create a socialization plan for a new kitten

 

The AVMA recommends that all new kitten owners should spend the time planning ahead to help their new pet develop a calm and confident temperament that will help them enjoy life to the fullest. This socialization plan should include important things like a timeline and strategy for exposing your new pet to other animals, a plan for rewarding engagement and discouraging naughty behaviors, and for positive and diverse experiences so they can be more confident each time.

 

Once you follow these tips and take your time to gradually earn your cat's trust, chances are they’ll be much happier and more friendly around you and your loved ones. If you notice that your cat is showing extreme signs of fear or discomfort or their mood changes from outgoing to anxious suddenly, it may be important to schedule a veterinary appointment. If you’re ready to schedule an appointment with the Bregman Veterinary Group, click here to get started!

How Often Should Your Dog Have an Exam?

The most important thing you can do for your four-legged best friend is make sure that they live a healthy and happy life. In addition to ensuring they have plenty of exercise, are eating a healthy diet, and have lots of affection, you’ll also want to keep them on a regular schedule with their veterinarian. While many people just rely on their vet to give them an update of when and why to bring their pup in for their next visit, very few understand the reasoning behind the frequency. 

What the AVMA recommends

 

According to the AMVA canine preventative healthcare guidelines, all dogs should have a veterinary examination at least annually. While this rule seems to be the general rule of thumb for all dogs, the AVMA goes on to say that for many dogs, more frequent visits may be appropriate, and the frequency of visits should be based on individual needs of the dog. Essentially, the recommendation is very similar to that of a grown adult, dogs should attend regular wellness exams and if you detect a problem, you should consult a veterinarian.  

 

Why are regular wellness checks so important?

 

For many, it may feel natural to judge how their dog is doing simply by their temperament and general weight and attitude. While it’s a good sign if your pup looks healthy and is generally very active and playful, it’s important to consult the experts who are trained to check and make sure that your pup has a clean bill of health. If you bring your dog to regular wellness exams, the chances of detecting any potential problem in its early stages are much higher and therefore the treatment will likely be less expensive and less difficult. 

 

What happens during wellness exams?

 

Wellness exams are great times for veterinarians to assess the health of your pup by evaluating different aspects including their weight, teeth, stool, temperament, and body type. These appointments often also include preventative care like vaccinations, heartworm prevention, and routine deworming which can help prevent diseases that are not only life-threatening but can be very expensive to treat.

 

Your veterinarian can also help by recommending a wellness program based on your specific dog. They will consider your pups breed, age, lifestyle, and overall health when making their recommendations. This customized plan can include recommendations for medication and preventative care, therapeutic plans, and a follow-up. 

 

When does my dog need more than an annual visit?

 

While annual visits are great for dogs in the healthiest stages of their lives, those that are more vulnerable like puppies and senior dogs might need more frequent visits. As a puppy, it’s recommended for your dog to have monthly wellness exams until their 16 weeks old. It’s during this time that your pup will get their most important vaccinations for diseases like rabies, distemper, parainfluenza, and more. After this 16-week window, the next visit is most often around six months when it’s time for them to be spayed or neutered and then after a checkup to ensure the procedure went smoothly, they move into a more regular annual schedule.

 

For senior dogs, it is often recommended that they visit their veterinarian semi-annually (every 6 months). More frequent changes can help catch things more quickly and can give your vet more time to treat any issues they notice as they arise.

 

When to visit your vet quickly

 

In addition to maintaining a steady cadence of vet visits, it’s also important to understand when to seek out help immediately. If your dog shows any alarming signs, has been in an accident, or is clearly in discomfort, trust your instincts and get to the ER right away. The quicker you get the help of professionals who are trained in handling emergencies for animals, the better off you and your pup will be. 

 

Since every dog is different, it’s important for you to consult a veterinarian like those at the Bregman Veterinary Group to help you determine the best wellness plan for your pup.  To schedule an appointment, click here to get started!