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.

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.

5 Incredible Reasons To Adopt A Shelter Pet

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital

269 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922

(908) 464-0023

Regardless of where they're kept before finding a loving family, all pets deserve a forever home. Today, though, we're going to focus on those pets that find themselves waiting in a shelter in honor of National Adopt A Shelter Pet Day this upcoming Sunday. If you have plans to bring a new furry friend into your home in the near future, here are few reasons why you should think about adopting from your local animal shelter:

1. You just might save a life. All too often shelter animals are euthanized because too few people are adopting and, as a result, the shelter becomes overcrowded - the Humane Society of the United States explains that 2.7 million adoptable dogs and cats are euthanized each year. By adopting your next pet, you could contribute to the larger effort that is to save sheltered animals from experiencing such an event.
2. You can help fight against puppy mills. The fight against puppy mills is ongoing for animal advocates, and by adopting, you can help. Puppy mills, which are best described as breeding facilities that care more about the money than the welfare of dogs, continue to stay in business when people buy dogs from pet stores or other online sellers. By adopting from your local rescue or animal shelter, you can start to help put these puppy mills out of business!
3. You'll help a homeless animal. Some people think that animals wind up in shelters because they're "bad," but the truth is that animals often wind up homeless because of a struggle the homeowner experiences - for example, they might move into an apartment that doesn't permit pets. We know how great it feels to help a homeless animal in need, and we bet you'll feel the same when you rescue one that lost its first home!
4. You'll experience unconditional love. All animals provide unconditional love to their owners, but one that has gone through a rough patch will thank you more than you may ever even realize. Be the light in what may be a dark time for a shelter animal by welcoming them into your home and providing them with the environment and love they deserve - they'll definitely return the favor!
5. You'll find a new best friend. Animals of all shapes, sizes and breeds wind up in animal shelters, so if you look hard enough, you will for sure find one that is a perfect match to your personality. If you're looking for an animal to be by your side and experience life with you, we're confident you can find this at your local shelter.

Are you thinking about adopting yet? Although animal shelters and rescues work hard to ensure that your new pet comes to you in their healthiest state, it's always a good idea to have your veterinarian look them over too. For those of you in New Providence, Summit, Berkeley Heights and Murray Hill, New Jersey, choose Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital to help you with all of your pet's medical needs - we've been providing exceptional veterinary care since 1976.

For more information about our veterinary services, please visit us at www.berkeleyheightsah.com or call (908) 464-0023 today.

Five Pet Safety Tips For Young Children

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital

269 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922

(908) 464-0023

Did you know? Today is National Kids and Pets Day! While pets are an absolute joy for people of all ages, they are especially beneficial for children as they grow up. For example, The Huffington Post explains that pets can teach children about unconditional love, empathy and responsibility, as well as help children socialize and improve their verbal skills! But since animals are, well, animals, it's important for children to know a bit about pet safety so that they AND their furry friends are safe at all times.

Top 5 Pet Safety Tips For Kids

The following list includes five of what we believe to be the most important safety tips children need to know where pets and animals are concerned:

1. Don't sneak up on or approach an animal, even when they are your own, while they are eating or sleeping. Additionally, if an animal is playing with a toy on its own, children should also allow them to have their personal space.
2. Never touch an animal's eyes, ears, nose or mouth when approaching it for the first time. Instead, children should approach with their palm facing up so that the animal has a chance to sniff first.
3. Avoid making a lot of noise or sudden movements when approaching an animal. Similarly, if a child is approached by an animal that they don't know, they should also try to remain quiet and do their best not to scream.
4. When petting an animal, never pull or tug on any part of their body - always be gentle. When approaching an animal to pet them, also approach from a direction that the animal can see rather than come up behind them.
5. Regardless of how trustworthy a child and an animal is, there should always be adult supervision in case the child or the pet begins to act uncharacteristically.

At Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, we know just how special having a pet can be for children, so we hope you'll share these tips with children you know so that they can enjoy their pets safely! And if you're part of a family who has pets as well, know that we're always here to help you care for them. From vaccines to surgical procedures, spays/neuters, dentistry, microchips and more, we do it all!

To learn more about our practice, please give us a call at (908) 464-0023 today.

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.

How To Celebrate Your Veterinarian on National Doctors' Day

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital

269 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922

(908) 464-0023

Happy National Doctors' Day! Although we are thankful for them every day, today we are especially grateful to have some of the top veterinarians on our staff. From wellness exams to surgery, dentistry, spays and neuters, and emergency care, our vets always view your pets as their number one priority and will do whatever it takes to ensure that they are well cared for.

We know we'll be celebrating our veterinarians and all they do for our practice all day long, but what about you? Here are a few ways that you can thank your vet today and every day:

1. Send a thank you card: Often times it's the simple things that mean the most, and a handwritten thank you card is one of those simple things that can really go a long way! It doesn't matter if you purchase a thank you card to write in or make your own - just the act of showing your vet that you appreciate their dedication to your pet(s) is viewed as something special (don't forget to include your pet's name in the signature!).
2. Bring in snacks: Food is one of those things that can put a smile on anyone's face, so if you want to do something a little more above and beyond, consider bringing your vet an assortment of their favorite snacks - cookies and donuts tend to be a fan favorite! If you want to take it even one step further, you may also want to consider donating some snacks for all of the furry friends the animal hospital cares for.
3. Verbalize your thoughts: The next time you bring your pet in for a visit, remember to verbally thank your vet and the rest of the hospital's staff for all of their hard work. Kind gestures like those in examples one and two are always appreciated, but hearing someone say thank you and recognizing your efforts in person surely means a lot.

Since 1976, the veterinarians here at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital have been providing exceptional veterinary care services. To learn how we can help your pet next, please visit us on our website or give us a call at (908) 464-0023. And don't forget, the first exam for all new clients is FREE! 

Everything You Need To Know About National Puppy Day

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital

269 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922

(908) 464-0023

Tomorrow is National Puppy Day, and we couldn't be more excited! Celebrated every year on March 23rd, National Puppy Day was founded by Colleen Paige, Celebrity Pet and Home Lifestyle Expert and Author, back in 2006 - now it's considered an international holiday!

The Meaning Behind National Puppy Day

Although we certainly don't need an excuse to show our puppies, as well as the rest of the puppies all over the world, some love and affection, National Puppy Day is a day to do just that - according to the National Puppy Day website, it's a day dedicated to celebrating the magic and unconditional love that our puppies bring into our lives. But that isn't all it's about; it's also a day that is dedicated to helping save orphaned puppies and is meant to help educate the public about puppy mills.

How To Celebrate National Puppy Day

As some of the biggest pet lovers around, we'll definitely be celebrating National Puppy Day - will you? If you're looking for some ideas on how to do so, here are a few to consider:

1. Spend the day at your local animal shelter to help care for the puppies in need.
2. Pick out some of your favorite puppy toys and donate them to your local shelter.
3. Take some time to puppy-proof your home to ensure that your furry friends are kept safe 365 days a year.
4. Encourage others to adopt puppies looking for their furever homes and educate your friends and family on the issues surrounding puppy mills. You may even want to consider writing to your local leaders to encourage them to stand up to and ban puppy mills in your area.
5. Shower your puppy with lots of love, and maybe even a new toy or two!

If you've been thinking about sharing your home with a puppy for quite some time, now is also the perfect time to visit your local animal rescue or shelter and find your perfect match.

Adopt, Don't Shop

We couldn't finish our discussion on National Puppy Day without quickly touching on the importance of adopting. According to The Humane Society, there are about 10,000 puppy mills in the United States, if not more, and a major source of encouragement for the development of puppy mills is pet stores that sell what many call "designer puppies." But, if more of us begin adopting rather than shopping at these pet stores, it may result in puppy mills going out of business.

Here at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, we love your pets just as much as you do! We'd love to hear how you're celebrating National Puppy Day this year, so be sure to stop by our Facebook page and share your ideas (and pictures!) with us.

Veterinary Care from Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital provides veterinary care for your pet. In fact, we've been caring for your sick pets since 1976 -- that's 40 years! We offer cutting-edge veterinary care, including surgical procedures, dog and cat spays and neuters and so much more. Let's take a closer look:

Wellness exams

Don't wait for symptoms -- early detection can save your pet's life! Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital recommends yearly wellness exams for pets under 7 years of age. For senior dogs and cats 7 and older, a wellness exam every 6 months is advised.

Preventative care

Our preventative veterinary care focuses on parasite prevention and testing. Roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, ringworms, fleas, heartworms and ear mites aren't just bad for your pets; they can also pose a threat to your family. Even indoor cats and dogs need to be tested! If your pet is not already on a prevention program, ask us how to get started.

Animal surgery

The surgical suite at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art monitoring equipment. Some of our most common surgical procedures include:

• Spays and neuters
• Declaws
• Wart, cyst and mass removal
• Suturing lacerations
• Foreign body removal
• Ear hematoma repair
• Hernia repair
• Cherry eye surgery
• C-sections
• Exploratory abdominal surgery
• Cystotomy
• Splenectomy
• Gastronomy
• Companion animal laser therapy

Dentistry for your pet

Did you know that caring for your pet's teeth is one of the bet ways to extend his or her life? Just like us, our furry friends are susceptible to tartar buildup and gum disease. Moreover, infected gums and abscessed teeth can lead to infection in the kidneys, liver and heart. Take advantage of our $299 dental special, which includes cleaning, scaling and polishing.

Spays and neuters

The doctors of Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital recommend spaying or neutering your pet at 6 months of age. Spays and neuters can help prevent tumors, infections, urinating in the house, spraying on furniture, mounting people or objects, and aggressive tendencies. Plus, by spaying and neutering our pets, we can all help reduce the overpopulation of dogs and cats!

Emergency veterinary care

We're proud to offer emergency care through our sister hospital, Newton Veterinary Hospital. By joining forces, our patients also benefit from the tremendous resources and services of a 24-hour veterinary hospital. All records can be accessed at any time in the event of an emergency, making treatment as quick and safe as possible.

To inquire about one or more of our veterinary services, give us a call at 908-464-0023. Don't forget to find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube!

National Dog Biscuit Day: Healthiest Brands

It's National Dog Biscuit Day, and pet parents across the country are celebrating by treating their furry friends to their favorite goody. But before you allow your pet to indulge, consider this: Just nine years ago, thousands of dogs and cats were poisoned to death by tainted food products.

If we learned anything from 2007's "Great Pet Food Recall," it's that not every pet food brand can be trusted. Below, we outline some of the healthiest options as reported by Rover.com:

1. Ultra

Dog biscuits from this brand are 100 percent all-natural, contain high-quality protein, and even boast added antioxidants, which help to boost your dog's immunity. They come in a number of varieties, too -- including blueberry and pomegranate!

2. Blue Buffalo

In search of dog treats made from real ingredients? Blue Buffalo is just what you've been looking for. In fact, you'll find a definition of each and every ingredient -- including meats and herbs -- at the company's website. Plus, the pet food business offers a variety of dog biscuits for a number of purposes, from dental care to training.

3. Homemade

Let's face it -- nothing beats the taste and nutrition of homemade food. And, thanks to BarkPost, concocting a dog biscuit doesn't have to be difficult! Check out this healthy, no-bake dog treat recipe that calls for just five ingredients.

Now go forth and spoil your pup rotten! (But, remember, even healthy treats should be enjoyed in moderation.)

To make an appointment with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, give us a call today at 908-464-0023. Don't forget to find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube!

Celebrate National Love Your Pet Day

If you're anything like us, you shower your furry friend in hugs and kisses every day. But in honor of National Love Your Pet Day, which only comes once a year, here are a few extra-special ways to show your pet some love:

Shop unique gifts. We're in love with this cute list from Boston.com. A cat DJ scratch post? We can't imagine a more entertaining way to prevent your kitty from clawing away at expensive pieces of furniture. The shark bed and bow tie collar are adorable too!

Spend quality time. As the saying goes, "He may only be a part of your life. But for him, you are his whole life." Give your trusty companion a little extra attention tomorrow in honor of Love Your Pet Day. Go for a walk, hang out in the yard or cuddle and watch a movie.

Bake up her favorite treats. You'd be surprised by how easy it is to make homemade dog and cat treats. Here, The Kitchn serves up nine do-it-yourself (DIY) recipes for dog goodies. For the fancy feline in your life, use this organic spinach and chicken cat treat recipe from POPSUGAR.

How will you celebrate National Love Your Pet Day? Head to Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital's Facebook Page to say hello and share your ideas. You can also find us on Twitter and YouTube.

To make an appointment for veterinary care, give us a call at 908-464-0023.

Tips for a Smoother Veterinary Visit

Pets and pet parents both want the same thing: smoother visits to the vet. Unfortunately, our furry friends can come to fear veterinary care for a variety of reasons, from bad past experiences to general anxiety. It can be hard for us to see our four-legged family members in distress, but sometimes a trip to the animal hospital is necessary.

Follow these tips to prevent your pet's next veterinary visit from becoming a disaster:

• Help your pet become accustomed to his carrier and to traveling in your vehicle
• Perform practice run-throughs at home to make the experience less foreign
• Consider stopping by to say hello -- just be sure to inform the staff of your casual visit to make sure it's a good time
• If your pet behaves aggressively, avoid the waiting room altogether; simply wait in the car until the vet can see you
• Bring your pet's favorite toy or treat
• Medicate if ncessary
• If you're visiting a new veterinarian, bring your pet's medical records

Here at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, we promise to treat your sick pets like family. You and your pet will feel at home in our office, which is located near Murray Hill in New Jersey! To make an appointment, give us a call today at 908-464-0023. 

Don't forget to find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube!

How to Choose the Right Animal Hospital

When it comes to animal hospitals, you have lots to choose from. However, not every veterinary practice is a good match for your pet. Follow this guide to select the perfect animal hospital for your furry friend.

• Reputation— If you want the best for your dog or cat, it's important to research reviews when considering animal hospitals. Testimonials from other pet parents can put you at ease and help you understand what to expect. Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital has a 5-star average user rating! We also have a 4.4-star rating on Google.
• Comfort— Your pet shouldn't fear going to the vet. The animal hospital you choose should not only have a comfortable setting, but also make you and your trusty companion feel safe and at ease. Our cozy office is designed to feel like a home away from home!
• Cutting-edge care— It's important that your pet's veterinarian is knowledgeable and has access to top-of-the-line equipment -- especially when it comes to surgery. Our surgical suite is outfitted with state of the art monitoring equipment.

At the end of the day, you have to choose an animal hospital you trust and respect. Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital has been caring for your sick pets since 1976. To make an appointment and meet our staff, call 908-464-0023 today.

Don't forget to find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube!

Walk Your Dog Month: Safety Tips

January is Walk Your Dog Month! Unfortunately, it's very cold (and even snowy) throughout much of the country right now. With that in mind, here are some safety tips for walking your dog -- and a few that apply specifically to cold weather areas:

1. Get a sturdy leash and collar

This tip is relevant year-round. Make sure your dog's leash and collar are "appropriate for the size and strength of your dog," recommends Cesar's Way. Inspect the collar and leash periodically for damage, rust and rips.

2. Wear reflective clothing

You and your pooch should both don reflective vests -- especially if you walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening. This is especially true during the winter months, when the sun rises late and sets early. Reflective gear will help you stand out to drivers in snow and rain as well.

3. Pick up some dog boots

Some pups do just fine in the cold weather, but others are not designed for frigid temperatures. If you notice chafing on your dog's paws, look into getting him a pair of boots. Your furry friend's footwear will also protect him from salt, which is often used on roads and sidewalks in an effort to melt snow.

4. Avoid icy areas

Arthritic and elderly dogs are likely to have more difficulty walking on snowy and icy surfaces. Prevent slips and falls by sticking to grassy or dirt-covered spots. If you don't have a choice in the matter, keep the walk brief, and keep an eye out for signs of weakness and instability.

Follow these dog walking safety tips during Walk Your Dog Month and the rest of the year to keep you and your pet free from danger! In need of veterinary care? Call Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital today to make an appointment: 908-464-0023.

Don't forget to find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube!

Why Choose Our Veterinarians?

The doctors of Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital have been caring for your sick pets since 1976! Why choose us for cutting-edge veterinary care? We promise to treat your sick pets like family.

Our veterinarians offer a variety of services:

• Wellness exams, lab tests and checkups
• Parasite prevention and testing
• 24-hour emergency veterinary care from our sister hospital, Newton Veterinary Hospital
• State-of-the-art surgical procedures:
  
• Dog and cat spay
•  Dog and cat neuter
• Cat declaw
• Puppy tail dock
• Wart/cyst/mass removal
• Suturing lacerations
• Foreign body removal
• Ear hematoma repair
• Hernia repair
• Cherry eye (third eyelid) surgery
• C-section
• Exploratory abdominal surgery
• Cystotomy
• Splenectomy
• Gastronomy
• Companion animal laser therapy

•  Dentistry services:

• Ultrasonic scaling of the teeth (to remove tartar)
• Ultrasonic polishing of the teeth (after scaling)
• Dental extractions as needed
• Oral surgery
• Periodontal disease
• Gingival tumor removals
• Gingival flap procedures
• The most up-to-date methods of anesthetic, monitoring and pain management protocols

Our caring veterinarians will take good care of your pets. To inquire about one or more of the services we provide, call Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital at 908-464-0023.

Don't forget to find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube!

5 New Year's Resolutions for Pet Parents

A new year is the perfect opportunity to take a step back and reevaluate your habits and routines. As a pet parent, you have a big responsibility -- to make sure your furry friend is happy, healthy and well-taken care of.

So instead of resolving to lose weight or eat more vegetables, why not promise to be an even better pet parent in 2016? Here are some ideas:

1. I will walk my dog daily! Even pets are susceptible to winter weight gain. Vow to walk your dog every day -- this winter and year-round -- to keep his heart in good shape.

2. I will play with my pet! When's the last time you made time to play with your furry family member? Set some time aside every day this year. Even just 30 minutes will help your pet get exercise and strengthen your bond.

3. I will stop feeding my pet human food! Your trusty companion gets all the nutrients she needs in high-quality pet food. Table food will only cause weight gain and other health issues.

4. I will take my pet on an adventure! Take your dog on a hike, or give your cat a tour of the backyard. After all, we could all use a change of scenery from time to time.

5. I will schedule a veterinary appointment! Regular veterinary care is important. To make an appointment with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, head to our website or give us a call at 908-464-0023.

Located near Summit, NJ, our vet can help your sick pet get better through many of our services such as vaccines, surgical procedures, dog and cat spays and neuters, and much more. We will treat your sick pet like family!

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

The Importance of Grooming Your Pet

There's nothing cuter than a freshly-groomed puppy or kitten, complete with a big red bow for the holidays. But grooming your pet is about more than looks; it's an integral part of keeping him or her healthy.

Here's why it's so important to keep your pet well-groomed: 

• Matted fur can lead to pain and health issues
• An accumulation of dirt and oil can cause skin infections
• Extreme matting can affect your pet's vision, mobility and eating habits
• Proper grooming can prevent and treat fleas
• Long nails can become painful and make walking more difficult
• Brushing your cat can prevent fur balls
• Checking your dog's ears can help prevent ear infections
• Brush your pet's teeth to prevent decay and bad breath

For more tips on how to groom and care for your pet, contact Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital at 908-464-0023. Our caring veterinarians will treat your pets like family!

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

This Year's Best Holiday Gifts for Pets

The holiday season is the perfect time to spoil your furry friend. Repay your pet for all the joy he brings into your life by giving him a great gift (or two)! Not sure what to get for your dog or cat? Not a problem.

We've scoured the Web to find this year's best pet gifts:

1. BarkBox

Get your pooch the ultimate holiday gift: a BarkBox subscription. Your trusty companion will receive a surprise bundle of treats, toys and gadgets. Choose from several different subscription levels, from one-month to 12-month.

2. Petzi Treat Cam

This one's for dogs and cats alike! The Petzi Treat Cam allows you to check in on and even interact with your pet -- no matter where you are. Set up the treat dispenser in your home and "see, speak, snap, and treat your pet" through your smartphone or tablet.

3. Ratherbee Teddy Bear Organic Catnip Toy

For cat lovers on a tighter budget, a catnip toy is just right. Your feline friend will find this adorable velveteen teddy bear to be both adorable and intoxicating! Best of all, it's made from 100 percent organic catnip, so you'll know you're giving your pet the best.

Have you found the perfect holiday gift for your pet? Tell us about it on Facebook and Twitter!

To make a veterinary appointment with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, call us at 908-464-0023.

The Case Against Giving Pets as Holiday Presents

The world would be a better place if every stray had a home. And one might argue that giving pets as holiday presents is the perfect way to achieve just that.

But the unfortunate truth is that too many puppies and kittens that were given as Christmas gifts share the same fate: ending up in a shelter. That's because becoming a pet parent should never be a surprise. Adding a new family member needs to be planned for!

Slate explains:

The arrival of a dog changes a household considerably—for years. Someone has to take responsibility for their daily needs—feeding, exercise, health care, grooming. The decision should be thought about, talked about, negotiated. A new dog, not necessarily a puppy, either, should be the result of a process, not an impulse.

That's not to say you shouldn't purchase or adopt a pet during the holiday season. Families that have carefully considered the pros and cons of bringing a four-legged friend home should certainly do so -- this December or any time of year. Just beware of puppy mills and bogus breeders!

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

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.