Living with Pets & Allergies

Just because you're an allergy sufferer doesn't mean you can't bring a pet into your home. True, you may have to clean more frequently and keep him nicely groomed. But we tend to think it's a small price to pay if it means getting to keep your beloved buddy!

Below, we present tips from the Humane Society of the United States on living with allergies and pets:

1. Get a proper diagnosis

Itching and sneezing when your cat is present doesn't necessarily mean you're allergic to him. It could be that you're allergic to a certain tree or flower that your furry friend happened to rub up against! Get an allergy test to figure out what exactly you're allergic to.

2. Create "allergy free" zones

If one or more people in your home are allergic to pets, build safe spaces for them. That is, don't let your pet enter certain rooms, such as the bedrooms or play rooms. Doing so will limit the amount of pet dander that collects in these zones.

3. Clean frequently

No one likes housework, but keeping your house dust- and dander-free means cleaning often. You also may want to wash certain articles such as couch covers and curtains.

4. Give your pet a bath

Most of us shower every day but give little thought to our pet's cleanliness. (Yes, they do clean themselves -- to an extent.) Grooming your cherished companion once a week can greatly reduce the amount of dander released into the air.

Having pet allergies doesn't mean you'll never be able to be a pet parent. Following these guidelines should keep symptoms to a minimum! For cutting-edge veterinary care, call Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital at 908-464-0023.

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How Can I Make Sure My Cat's Getting Enough Water?

We've had a warm couple of weeks here in the Northeast. Many pet parents worry about their cats getting enough water during the summer.

There are lots of things you can do to encourage your furry friend to drink more water. Let's go over a few ideas:

1. Don't limit your cat to one bowl of water

It's better to provide your favorite feline with several water dishes throughout the house. Try placing them in less obvious spots, too. "Cats seem to pay more attention to things that are different," advises Animal Planet.

2. Buy more interesting bowls

We all know that cats can be picky. Maybe your kitty doesn't like the height or shape of the water bowl you've been serving up. Again, the more unusual, the better. Play with different materials, too!


3. Consider a fountain bowl

Does your pet love running water? If so, she may be more inclined to drink from a fountain bowl. They're specifically designed to provide running water all day long without having to run the faucet.

Taking these steps should ensure your cat's getting enough water. Remember, cats generally don't require as much water as other animals, so try not to stress too much about it.

If your cat is displaying signs of dehydration or other health problems, call Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital at 908-464-0023 to set up an appointment today. We've been caring for your sick pets since 1976!

Get more tips by connecting with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube.

How to Introduce Your Dog to Other Dogs

Whether you've just adopted a new pup or are trying to socialize your furry friend, it's important to be aware of a "dominance hierarchy." This term refers to the social structure that dogs establish on their own. It helps maintain order, keep conflict at a minimum and garner cooperation.

Dogs also tend to have territories, which they'll often defend against trespassers. This will affect your dog's behavior if and when you bring a new animal into the house.

To keep the first meeting between dogs peaceful, follow these tips:

1. Introduce them one at a time to avoid ganging up
2. Plan for the dogs to meet somewhere neutral -- that is, on neither of their territories
3. Employ positive reinforcement; allow each furry friend to experience something good (treats, friendly tone of voice, etc.) when they're together
4. Look for a "play-bow," a friendly invitation to play
5. Keep an eye out for aggressive behavior, like growling or teeth-baring

If your dog can't seem to get along with others, you may want to consider enlisting the help of a professional animal behaviorist. The sooner you resolve the issue, the easier it will be!

For expert advice from one of our vets, contact Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital at (908) 464-0023. Get more tips by connecting with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube.

How to Handle an Injured Pet

There's almost nothing more heartbreaking than an injured pet. But before you jump to help your furry friend, it's crucial that you take the right steps to avoid being bitten or scratched. After all, your cat or dog is most likely frightened and confused.

Follow these basic tips to keep you and your pet safe:

1. Don't assume your pet won't act out

"Pain and fear can make animals unpredictable or even dangerous," advises the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF). Even if your trusty companion is usually quite gentle, proceed with caution.

2. Keep a safe distance away

Your instinct will probably tell you to hug and console your pet. However, you could end up scaring her or causing even more pain. Be sure not to go too close to her mouth in case she feels the urge to bite. If you feel like you need to examine your pet's injuries, do so in a slow and gentle manner.

3. Call us up right away

The veterinarians at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital are trained to deal with pet injuries. Call us at 908-464-0023. If you require emergency assistance, you may visit our sister hospital, Newton Veterinary Hospital, which is open 24 hours a day.

Other things to keep in mind:

• Only place a muzzle on your pet if necessary, and don't do it if he's vomiting
• If you must move your pet, try to stabilize any injuries with splints or bandages
• Keep your pet confined to a small space while transporting her

For more tips from Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube!

Hot Weather Tips for Your Pets

If you think it's hot outside, just imagine how warm our pets must feel underneath all that fur. Don't make your trusty companion suffer in the heat! Follow these rules from the ASPCA to prevent your pet from becoming overheated and dehydrated this summer.

1. Schedule a check-up

Visit Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital to make sure your pet is healthy enough to be outdoors for an extended period of time this summer. We'll also test him for heartworm and parasites, and we can recommend a safe and effective flea and tick preventative.

2. Provide lots of shade

If your pet spends time in the yard in the summer, make sure there's a shady spot for her to take refuge from the sun. You should also keep fresh, clean water around to prevent dehydration.

3. Familiarize yourself with warning signs

Pets don't sweat like we do. So how can you tell if your furry friend is overheating? Look for these warning signs:

• Excessive panting and/or difficulty breathing
• Rapid heart rate
• Weakness and fatigue

For more hot weather tips for your pets, contact Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital at 908-464-0023. We've been caring for your sick pets since 1976! Don't forget to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube.