How to Cat Proof Your Christmas Tree

You’re enjoying a quiet evening at home, sitting by the fireplace, when a giant monstrosity of an object is shoved into your house and placed in the middle of the room. It smells strange; it’s leaving a trail of it’s material from you to the door; and it’s at least 60 times your size. Yet, still, you have to explore it- maybe even climb the whole thing.

The scene above is basically how your cat feels when you bring home your Christmas tree. It’s a new experience for them, and if we know anything about our cats, it’s that they are very curious creatures. So follow these tips to cat-proof your Christmas tree and keep your kitty safe this holiday season.

1. Consider the Type of Tree You Choose: A fake tree is actually safer for your cat, since the needles of a real tree can puncture skin and the pine itself is mildly toxic to animals. Also think about the size you pick- a smaller tree is better for younger cats who are more playful and likely to try to climb the tree.
2. Don’t Decorate the Tree at First: Give your cat time to adjust to the tree being in their environment. Discourage them from going near it with a stern “No!” or by spritzing the tree with citrus or Bitter Apple spray, as this will deter cats.
3. Watch Out for Certain Decorations: Avoid shiny or twinkling decorations since these will look like fun toys in your cat’s eyes. If you’re decorating with food, remember that chocolate is toxic to pets. Keep the tinsel stowed away as this can cause major medical problems if your cat ingests it. Pro Tip: Keep the majority of your ornaments at the top two-thirds of the tree, out of your cat’s reach.
4. Secure Everything: Make sure your tree is held firm in a sturdy base. Use metal wires or clamps to ensure ornaments aren’t able to be swatted off by the flick of a paw. Tape down any loose electrical wires and even spray the wires with Bitter Apple to prevent your kitty from chomping down on them.

Christmas is stressful and expensive enough without having to worry about an emergency trip to the vet. Follow these tips to keep Fluffy out of your Christmas tree and safe in your arms.

For more tips about keep your pet safe this holiday season, follow us on Facebook and Twitter! If you are in Berkeley Heights, Summit, or New Providence, make Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital the trusted vet for your furry friend. Call us for an appointment at 908-464-0023!

Holiday Safety Tips for Your Pets

Oh, the holidays! The warm tidings, the delicious food, all of your loved ones gathered around to celebrate. While we hope your days are merry and bright in these upcoming weeks, we also would like to remind you that while you love those holiday decorations around your home, your pet does too, and that may not be a good thing. But don’t worry! We’re here to give you some holiday safety tips so both you and your pet can have yourselves a merry little Christmas.

1. Oh, Christmas Tree. While it may be funny to watch your cat climb your Christmas tree like it’s the Mount Everest of kitty posts, it also poses the risk for the tree to come crashing down - your cat with it. To prevent this, place your tree in a corner away from your pet’s wandering eyes and make sure to secure your tree tightly in its stand so it doesn’t tip and fall.
2. Ho-Ho-Hold the Holly. Did you know holly and mistletoe can cause major health problems for your furry friends? Holly can make your pet nauseous and cause them to vomit or have diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal and cardiovascular problems. Make the switch to artificial plants and flowers- they’re just as pretty and are safer for your animals.
3. 

   Take Down the Tinsel. Just the way you think the tinsel around your home is pretty and oh so shiny, so does your cat. They’ll see the tinsel as a bright new toy, but should they ingest any of it, they could experience an intestinal blockage and could potentially even need surgery to remove it. So skip the tinsel and opt for a different way to deck the halls.
4. Fido-Friendly Family Time. If you plan on having everyone celebrate the holidays at your home, make sure they know what to avoid giving your pets. Keep certain foods, such as sweets or spicy food, away from your pets to avoid digestive issues. Hold onto your drinks, and don’t let your dogs or cats sip on any adult beverages as alcohol is poisonous to animals and can cause respiratory problems.

The staff at  Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital wants you and your family to have a wonderful holiday season, and part of that means making sure your animals are safe. Following these tips can ensure that both you and your pets have a holly jolly Christmas.

For more tips on how to keep your pets safe during the holidays or to book an appointment, visit our website or ☎️ 908-464-0023.

The Benefits of Choosing Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital

269 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922

(908) 464-0023

Whether you've just welcomed a brand new puppy or kitten into your family or have an older pet to care for, we know just how important it is to find an animal hospital that you can trust for all of your pet's health and wellness needs. After all, they're a very special part of your family, and if you're like us, you'd do just about anything to make sure that they're well cared for.

For those of you who live in Berkeley Heights, New Jersey or one of the surrounding areas, we at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital would be more than happy to provide the veterinary care your pet requires. Below are just a few of the many benefits that come with choosing our practice:

We offer 24 hour care.
Owned and operated by Dr. Don Costlow, owner of the 24 hour veterinary hospital Newton Veterinary Hospital in Sussex County, NJ, all of the patients at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital also have access to 24 hour emergency care. Our medical records can be accessed at any time from Newton Veterinary Hospital so that their emergency doctors can treat your pets quickly and safely regardless of the time of day.

We offer more than just basic services.
Our veterinarians are equipped to provide a comprehensive list of veterinary services, including vaccines, spays and neuters, dentistry, microchips, and surgical procedures! Regardless of what medical care your pet needs, we're confident that we have the solution you're looking for.

We've been in business since 1976.
We've been caring for animals for 40 years this year, so we have a ton of experience in the various procedures you can rely on us for. Between our expert veterinarians and our support staff, both you and your pet(s) will feel right at home with us, and we promise to deliver exceptional service that you can trust every time!

From the moment you walk into our office, you can rest assured that we're going to treat your pets like family - they're just as important to us as they are to you!

For more information about the veterinary care we offer, please visit us on our website. To make an appointment with us (the first exam for new clients is FREE!), call (908) 464-0023.

Pet Parasites To Be On The Lookout For

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital

269 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922

(908) 464-0023

Part of being a pet owner requires you to know how to keep your pet happy and healthy, and that doesn't stop at just taking them to the vet for their routine check-up. Although parasites can take over all throughout the year, as it gets warmer and you start to spend more time outdoors, it's important that you know what to look out for in case your pet happens to pick something up. Read on to learn about the dog and cat parasites we want you to focus on throughout the upcoming season.

Roundworms
If your dog(s) or cat(s) are dehydrated, losing weight, passing diarrhea or have anemia, they may be infected with roundworms - specific to dogs, you might also noticed a "pot-bellied" look in puppies. Aside from becoming infected as a result of their mother being infected, the environment plays a large role in whether or not your pet will wind up with roundworms, so be sure to keep their immediate environment as clean as possible.

Fleas
Pets are likely to contract fleas when they come into contact with other animals who are infested or if they are in an environment where fleas are living. An obvious symptom of fleas in dogs and cats are itching and scratching, and if it becomes severe, you may also notice hair loss, skin infections and inflammation. Additionally, although they are small, you may even be able to see what is called "flea dirt" on the surface of your pet's skin.

Ear Mites
Just like the name suggests, ear mites find a home in the ears of dogs and cats. As they feed off of the animal's ear lining, the dog or cat will show signs of scratching and/or head shaking to try and calm the itch. Since too much scratching can cause damage to an animal's ear, such as to the ear canals or ear drum, it's important that all pet owners take action when they see their pet shake their head and scratch their ears repeatedly.

Hookworms
Hookworms infect puppies and kittens by penetrating the skin through their belly or their feet, and then they attach to the animal's intestinal lining and tend to create bleeding internal wounds. If your pet appears to be weak or has pale gums, there is a good chance that they've been infected by this particular parasite - since severe infestations can be life threatening due to a loss of blood, these are symptoms you cannot ignore.

Regardless of the parasite an animal is infected with, it is extremely important to have them treated as soon as possible to prevent further illness. At Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, we recommend an annual fecal testing for all dogs and cats to check for intestinal worms, an annual heartworm test for dogs, and a year-round parasite protection program for all animals - that also includes indoor cats!

For information about how our veterinarians can help animals who have been infected, as well as how we can help with parasite prevention, please give us a call at (908) 464-0023.

Tips To Keep Your Pet Safe In Spring

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital

269 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922

(908) 464-0023

Although it's a bit chilly today for spring, as we start to embrace that warmer weather is coming, our pets are sure to get excited too. Let's face it, after a long few months of what might have included shorter walks and less time outside, they probably have the same spring fever that you do! But remember, with a new season comes new rules that you need to follow to ensure that your pets are kept safe:

Always Secure Pets In The Car
Your furry friend sticking his or her head out the car window with the wind blowing can be a super cute sight, but it can also be dangerous. If you plan to take your pet to the park on the next nice day, make sure they are kept secure during the ride by buckling them in with the proper seatbelt harness or use a crate.

Carefully Store Lawn Care Products
Now is the time where many of you may be starting your spring lawn care routine, but keep in mind that fertilizers and the like can be hazardous to pets. If you plan to work outdoors, make sure that you store all lawn and garden care products out of your pet's reach once you're done. Furthermore, if you plan to have a garden, make sure you're choosing pet-friendly plants.

Follow A Flea and Tick Control Program
As a result of your pets spending more time outside, they may be more exposed to bugs such as fleas and ticks. To prevent them from being harmed, ask your vet about a flea and tick control program that you can follow so that they remain 100% healthy all season long.

Install Window Screens
There's nothing like opening the windows on a beautiful spring day, but unless your windows are equipped with screens, you could be putting your pets at risk! To prevent your pets from jumping or worse, falling, out of your windows, install screens where they aren't already and check them regularly to make sure they are secure.

Be Mindful About Spring Cleaning
Even though your spring cleaning routine may differ from your friend's or your neighbor's, one thing that everyone has in common is the fact that cleaning products will be used. But, a lot of your typical household cleaners contain chemicals that can be harmful to pets! Make sure you're using pet-safe products by checking out the ASPCA's article on poisonous household products.

Here at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, we care about your pets just as much as you do, which is why we want them to be kept safe at all times this spring! If you have questions about the proper spring safety measures or are in need of veterinary care, please give us a call at (908) 464-0023.

Holiday Decorating Hazards & Pets

'Tis the season for family, flickering fireplaces, decking the halls and... sick pets?

The holiday season is here! As you and your family get ready to decorate, be aware of the following pet safety tips:

• Make sure your holiday tree is firmly in place. The last thing you want is for it to fall on your curious furry friend. It's also important that tree water -- which could contain fertilizers, bacteria and pesticides -- is out of reach from your pets. Drinking from the tree stand could make them very sick.
• Hang tinsel and ornaments up high. These flashy decorations are especially appealing to cats. Not only do they pose a choking hazard, but when eaten, they can cause blocked intestines and obstructed digestive tracts. Keep these light-catching adornments out of reach, or find a pet-friendly alternative.
• Don't leave holiday candles lit and unattended. One swift tail wag, and your pet could suffer a serious burn. Knocking over a candle could also lead to a house fire. When you are in the mood for that soft, festive glow, place candles in hard-to-reach spots and avoid leaving the room.
• Resist the temptation to dress your four-legged friend up in bows and ribbons. You might find it adorable, but your dog or cat will probably think it's annoying. Next thing you know, he's gnawing away at -- and potentially even choking on -- the festive frill.

Don't let your pet get sick this winter! Follow these guidelines for a happy, healthy and safe holiday season.

If your beloved animal does get into trouble this holiday season, the veterinarians of Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital are here to help. Simply give us a call at 908-464-0023 to make an appointment. We will treat your sick pets like family!

For more tips, find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Which Thanksgiving Scraps are Safe for Pets?

Thanksgiving is all about giving thanks and eating good food with our family members. If you're like us at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, your pets are a big part of the family. Before you set up your pooch or kitten with a Turkey Day plate of his or her own, familiarize yourself with the following safety tips:

• It's OK to give your turkey meat is in small pieces. Make sure it's boneless and fully cooked through. Don't feed your pet the turkey's leftover carcass, which contains bones that can cause issues in his or her digestive tract.
• If you're baking bread, keep the dough far away from your furry friend! Once ingested, the yeast will convert the dough's sugars into carbon dioxide and alcohol. A drunk pet might sound funny, but it could become a life-threatening emergency!
• Vegetables like sweet potatoes and green beans are perfectly healthy for cats and dogs. They help put the perfect Thanksgiving twist on your pet's usual dinner. Consider adding dribbles of gravy too!

Follow this guide to keep your pets safe this Thanksgiving. A good rule of thumb is to let your cat or dog indulge in moderation. Otherwise, your furry family member could end up with a stomachache, diarrhea or even pancreatitis.

If you're concerned about your pet's well-being, contact Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital today at 908-464-0023. We'll treat your sick pets like family!

Don't forget to find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube for more tips.

The Importance of Routine Pet Healthcare

You make it a point to visit your doctor once a year. Doesn't your pet deserve the same?

Bringing your four-legged friend to the vet for routine visits is super important. Here's why:

Tip-top shape. Your veterinarian knows exactly what to look for and can therefore catch ailments that might otherwise go unnoticed. Everything that goes into regular visits -- like blood work, listening to the heart and lungs, and even looking at your pet's paws -- will help keep him in good health.

Parasite prevention. Dogs and cats are at risk for parasites like roundworms, hookworms and heartworms year-round. We recommend annual fecal testing (to check for intestinal worms) for all our dog and cat patients, as well as annual heartworm tests for dogs. Remember, these parasites not only pose a threat to your pets, but also to your family!


Vaccinations. Scheduling regular wellness exams for your trusty companion ensures she's up-to-date on all vaccines. These vaccines protect your pets from potentially fatal diseases. If you're unsure whether your furry friend is due for his or her next vaccine, give Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital a call at 908-464-0023.

For more tips on pet care, connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.

Why Dogs Tilt Their Heads When We Speak

There's nothing cuter than when you're talking to your dog and he tilts his head every so slightly. It's as if he's trying his hardest to understand the words coming out of your mouth. Adorable!

But what are dogs really trying to achieve with that oh-so-charming head tilt? Here are a few possibilities:

1. They want to see our faces better

Our furry friends are constantly scanning our faces to understand our emotional state and gain information. Unfortunately, their muzzles can get in the way of that! Psychology Today surveyed pet parents and found the following:

71% of the owners of the dogs with the larger muzzles report that their dogs often tilt their heads when spoken to. On the other hand only 52% of the owners of the flatter faced, brachycephalic dogs reported that their dogs often tilted their heads when spoken to. This is a statistically significant difference that clearly suggests that head shape, and size of the muzzle does influence head tilting in dogs.

2. They want to hear us better

Pups can move their ear flaps to determine the source of a sound. They also can use their heads to figure out time differences between the noise arriving at each ear. Even just a modest tilt of the head might provide a dog with the information needed to accurately judge a sound's location.

3. They want us to know they care

Any pet parent will tell you that their canine is very in tune with their emotions. It should come as no surprise, then, that dogs may tilt their heads to show empathy. Could it be that our furry friends just want to show how much they care?

No matter how you look at it, dogs are simply delightful -- head tilt and all. For more tips and tidbits on all things pets, connect with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital on Facebook and Twitter!

Top 5 Halloween Costumes for Dogs

A lot of us treat our pets like our own children. So it should come as no surprise that pet Halloween costumes are becoming increasingly more popular.

This year, the selection of dog disguises is more impressive than ever! Let's take a look at 2015's top five Halloween costumes for pooches:

1. Superman

A classic superhero costume that never goes out of style, Superman is perfect for your crime-fighting canine. We love this version, available from Party City for just $12.99!

2. Party animal

Who doesn't love a good pun? Transform your pup into a party animal by picking up this adorable luau shirt.

3. Lion

Is your dog king of the forest? Give him the mane he deserves this Halloween. Better get working on that ROAR!

4. Raptor

If your pet's spent countless nights watching Jurassic Park movies, this raptor dog costume is for her. It's super easy to put on and take off, too.

5. Bettlejuice

Throw it back with 80s favorite "Beetlejuice!" That is, if your pup will wear the wild wig.

Are you dressing up your pet this Halloween? If so, share your photos with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital on Facebook and Twitter!

When Should Your Pets Get Checkups?

Most of us try to see a doctor at least once a year for an annual checkup. But what about our pets? Do they need to see the vet as often as we need to see our general practitioners?

Unfortunately, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on a lot of things, like your furry friend's health, age and whether she's an indoor pet or outdoor pet.

If you notice any of the following signs, you should bring your animal companion into a veterinary office immediately:

• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Lethargy or depression
• Vomiting, diarrhea or loose stools

If your pet is otherwise healthy, adhere to these guidelines from PETA for scheduling checkups:

• At least once a year for dogs and cats under 10 years old
• At least once every six months for pets 10 years and older

Not sure whether or not it's time to bring your pup or kitten in to see a doctor? Contact the veterinary experts of Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital today at 908-464-0023. Learn more about our wellness exams here.

Keep up with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital by connecting with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube!

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.

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

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.

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.

Why National Mutt Day Matters

It's National Mutt Day, a day to celebrate and raise awareness for all of the homeless and sheltered mutts across the country. Choosing to adopt a mutt over a new born purebred has many advantages that people tend to overlook.

 
Shapes, Size, and Color - Since mutts are a combination of many different breeds, each dog will have its own unique look. You can choose from small, large, no tail, long tail, short hair and long hair in a variety of different colors. This wide selection of dogs allows you to pick the perfect pup to match your own unique style.

Health - When you adopt a dog you obviously want them to live as long as they can. Studies in Europe and North America show that mixed breeds have a longer lifespan than purebreds. Mutts are also less prone to disease. This is thought to be due to the theory of hybrid vigor, which means the mating of opposite ancestry produces a healthier specimen.

Money - Adopting a mutt can often be more affordable than the price of a purebred. (Although, all dogs need proper diets, vet visits, training, grooming, supplies and toys, etc.) Some shelters even offer discounts on adoptions, like on National Mutt Day! The Humane Society of Port Jervis/Deerpark Shelter offers 50 percent off of adoption of a mutt today, for those with an approved adoption application. For more information, click here.

Tranquility - Mutts are not as extreme in their behavior as purebreds are. When scoring friendliness, protectiveness, shyness, aggression, and stability, mixed breeds perform better. Purebreds also tend to be predictable in their extreme temperament that is specific to their breed. Mutts will have different characteristics from many of their different breeds of ancestry.

Adopting a mutt won’t just change your life for the better, but it could save their life as well. For every dog that is adopted from a shelter, that’s another dog that won’t be institutionalized, or worse, euthanized. Make a difference in a mutt’s life and they will for sure make a difference in yours.

When a dog finally gets a home, the owners need to make sure that they bring them to a veterinarian for routine visits. Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital has been providing veterinary care for your pets since 1976. Deciding that you want to adopt a mutt or already have a pet? Let our veterinarians treat them like they’re family! Call us at (908) 464-0023 to make an appointment today.

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

Tips and Tricks for Traveling with Your Pet

Considering taking your pet with you on your summer vacation? If you're flying, follow these tips for a safe and smooth trip:

Book early. Every airline has its on rules when it comes to flying with your pet. Do some research to see which has the options you're looking for. When it's time to book, double-check that there's a sweat available for your dog or cat!

Stop by our office. You'll want to make sure your pet is fit for flying before takeoff. Call Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital at 908-464-0023 to make an appointment. Flying out of the US? Ask us about vaccinations.

Make it comfortable. Flying can be scary for a pet. Providing a comfortable carrier will make the journey a little less anxiety-provoking. Look for a crate that's large enough for your furry friend to stand up, turn around and lie down in.

Feed him four hours in advance. This should leave enough time for your cute critter to go to the bathroom before takeoff. If there's time, allow your pet to exercise as well.

Your summer vacation should be relaxing, not stressful. Follow these steps for a pleasant flight and a happy pet.

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

Pool Safety Tips for Pets

It is getting hot out there and a quick dip in the pool can be a great way for you and your furry friend to keep cool this summer. While a day by the pool sounds like fun, it can easily turn into disaster if you do not take the right precautions when it comes to pool safety for you pets!

Here are a few tips on keeping your pet safe this summer:

1. Limit access to the pool area

Putting a fence around your pool and keeping the gate closed is the best way to keep your pet safe from any accidental fall-ins. With a fence they can only get into the pool area if they are being supervised.

2. Get your pet a life jacket

Don’t just assume that your pet is a good swimmer. Buy your pet a life jacket, and then try to teach him how to swim. Even if your pet is a good swimmer, he can easily get cramps or become exhausted. By wearing a lifejacket, your pet will be less at risk.

3 .Keep the pool water drinking to a minimum

Pool water contains chemicals, chlorine and even sometimes algae. It is important to try and prevent your pet from drinking this water as it can cause her to become sick. Keep a bowl of clean water outside of the pool for your pet to sip from!

4. Pay attention to the heat

Heat from the sun becomes more intense around water. Make sure you keep an eye out for sunburn and heat stroke. Also be sure the surface around the pool is not too hot. Walking on hot surfaces can cause blistering on your pet’s paws.

5. Create an easy way in and out

It’s best to have steps that your pet can easily climb to get in and out of the pool. If he falls in, he needs to have easy access back out of the pool. While you are in the pool with your pets, teach them the proper way to enter and exit.

We want your pets to stay cool and healthy all year round. To learn more about pool safety for your pets give Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital a call at 908-464-0023. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ & YouTube for more tips!

It's All American Pet Photo Day!

Let your pet show off his pearly whites: It's All-American Pet Photo Day! Today, July 11, is a day to celebrate our furriest family member's photogenic side.

But not just any old pet photo will do. On All-American Pet Photo Day, try to get a few special photos of your pet or pets. Snap some pictures at your pup's favorite dog park, or get a shot of your cat doing something curiously cute. Whatever you do, use your imagination!

Before you grab your camera, read the following pet photography tips from California-based pet and landscape photographer Josh Norem:

Grab an assistant. Ask a friend or family member to help direct your pet's eyes in the camera's direction. No volunteers? A squeaky toy or noise-making smartphone app should work.

Be patient. Getting the perfect shot might require a bit of waiting around. You don't want to miss that perfect moment!

Focus on her eyes. "If the eyes aren’t in focus, the shot is wasted, end of discussion," advises Norem. You might need to take your camera off of auto-focus to accomplish this.

For more tips and tricks, read the full Digital Trends article here.

If your pet's teeth aren't quite photo-ready, then contact us at 908-464-0023. We can clean his teeth and help prevent tartar build-up and periodontal disease.

Are you celebrating All-American Pet Photo Day? Share a photo of your pet with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital on Facebook, Twitter or Google+!

Why It's Important to Walk Your Dog

Your dog doesn't just want to go for a walk. He needs it!

According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), approximately 52.7 percent of dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese. Unfortunately, as Americans become more overweight, so do their pets.

Because our pets are gaining weight right along with us, they are more at risk for diabetes, heart disease and other weight-related health issues. It's important to walk your dog regularly -- at least once a day -- to manage her weight and prevent conditions caused by obesity.

Other reasons to walk your dog include:

• Improved obedience skills
• An opportunity to bond with your dog
• Better social skills
• Fewer separation issues

Aim to walk your dog for about 20 minutes to keep him healthy and reap the benefits listed above. If your pooch is more active than the average dog, you may need to take her on longer, more strenuous walks. 

To learn more about why it's important to walk your dog, give Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital a call at 908-464-0023. Don't forget to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube!

Pet Appreciation Week: Ways to Celebrate Your Pet!

Pet Appreciation Week is the perfect time to think about just how important pets are. Our furry friends offer unconditional love, help relieve tension, and even get us up to exercise! Looking for ways to celebrate your pet? Keep reading for ideas.

How to show your dog appreciation:

• Extend his walk by 10-15 minutes. Not only will he love the extra attention, but you'll get some added exercise!
  
• Give her a massage. This might sound strange, but sometimes dogs need to be pampered too! Click here for tips and techniques from Modern Dog Magazine.
  
• Find a local dog park. Socializing is very important for pups. Two dog parks near Berkeley Heights include South Mountain Dog Park and Lewis Morris Dog Park.

How to show your cat appreciation:

• Give him a good brush. Use a good grooming brush, which serves as a massage and offers hairball prevention. Do this for a few minutes every day.
  
• Invest in a laser pointer. Cats love chasing the laser beam around! Plus, it's good exercise for your favorite feline. Just be sure to avoid shining it into her eyes.
  
• Pick up a scratching post. Scratching posts offer a number of benefits to your cat, including stress relief and claw maintenance. It's also a smart way to protect your furniture. 

Whatever you choose to do, make sure your pet feels loved -- during Pet Appreciation Week and every week. After all, pets bring us health and happiness every day!

Don't forget to schedule your pet's next veterinary appointment with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital. Call us today to make an appointment: 908-464-0023. We're on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube too!