How to Tell if a Stray Cat is Spayed or Neutered

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital

269 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922

(908) 464-0023

Spaying and neutering is so important for cats and dogs for a number of reasons:

1. Females that are not spayed have a higher risk of developing mammary tumors and uterine infections.
2. Female dogs and cats never stop going into heat completely, so there is a risk of potential pregnancy problems at an advanced age.
3. Males that are not neutered can develop behavioral problems, such as urinating in the house and being aggressive.
4. It helps to reduce the overpopulation of dogs and cats.

All that said, if you've gone out intentionally to bring an animal home, then you were probably given all of the information you need about when it would be time to spay or neuter them if the procedure wasn't done already. But what about those stray animals that you see sitting on your front porch sometimes or soaking up some sun in your driveway? 

If you come across a stray cat and are considering rescuing it, here's how you can tell if it was already spayed or neutered:

Inspect the cat's abdomen.
If the cat is cooperative and will let you hold and handle them, flip it onto its back and look at its abdomen area. The fur on this part of the cat is typically shaven before a spay or neuter procedure, so if the fur here is mostly missing or looks shorter than the rest of the cat's body, that could mean they were recently spayed or neutered. However - keep in mind that this isn't the only surgical procedure that requires fur to be shaved, so you'll want to check the cat in some other ways too in order to confirm what has actually been done.

Look for a scar.
Particularly in female cats, a scar should be visible in their lower abdomen if they were spayed recently. You may have to move some of the fur on the cat's abdomen to get a good look if it's already started to grow back, and you should be looking for a straight, thin line that runs down the center of the cat's lower abdomen.

Compare the cat's ears.
A rather obvious way to tell if a cat has been spayed or neutered is to check their ear - if one of the ears looks like it's been clipped, that's a sign that the procedure was most likely already taken care of. You may also find a tattoo within the cats inner ear, or for females, a tattoo marking may be near the scar. Tip - if you find an "M" tattoo, this does not give insight into spaying and neutering, and rather means that the cat has been microchipped.

Aside from all of the self-checks you can do, one surefire way to figure out if a cat has been spayed or neutered is to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. They certainly know everything to look for and can give you their professional insight on the situation!

For those of you in Summit, Berkeley Heights, Murray Hill, New Providence, Plainfield or Westfield, New Jersey, you can always count on the team here at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital to help with spays and neuters. 

To learn more about our spay and neuter services, as well as our other veterinary care services, please call (908) 464-0023 or visit our website today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spays and Neuters

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital

269 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922

(908) 464-0023

Welcoming a new pet into the family is one of the most exciting things we can do, but with it also comes a lot of new challenges and responsibilities - starting with your first trip to the vet! You want to make sure that your new pup or kitten is as healthy as can be, so you'll need to make an appointment with your veterinarian to start learning about routine check-ups and vaccinations. Then, there's having your pet spayed or neutered.

As this is a surgical procedure, we know that families have a lot of questions about the process and how it affects their furry friends. That's why today, we're here to answer a few of them for you:

Q: When should I spay or neuter my pet?

A: We recommend that you spay or neuter your pet once they reach 6 months of age. 

Q: Why should I spay or neuter my pet?

A: Spaying or neutering is important for a few reasons: 1) it can help prevent overpopulation of cats and dogs, 2) it can help prevent health problems, and 3) it can help prevent behavior problems.

For example, female animals that are not spayed have a higher risk of developing mammary tumors and uterine infection, which require very critical surgery. Additionally, since female dogs and cats do not completely stop going into heat despite their age, there is a chance that they can become pregnant when it is not safe for their bodies. Lastly, male animals that are not neutered are more likely to develop behavior problems, such as urinating throughout your house or being aggressive towards you and perhaps even your other pets. 

Q: Is having my pet spayed or neutered safe?

A: Absolutely. Spaying and neutering is an extremely common surgical procedure, and the veterinarians working on your pet will always put their health and safety first. Here at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, we require pre-operative blood work to ensure that your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia, and we follow a number of safety precautions throughout the procedure. For example, we:

• administer IV fluids during surgery to sustain body temperature, fluid and electrolyte levels
• use sterile surgical packs to minimize the risk of post surgical infections
• monitor your pet while they are under anesthesia to check on their heart rate and oxygen levels

Q: Is my pet going to be in pain?

A: When spaying and neutering we give your pet a sedative as well as pain management medication in order to help minimize any anxiety they feel as well as to reduce feelings of discomfort - we do everything we can to make the procedure as comfortable and painless as possible!

Q: Will my pet's personality change after undergoing surgery?

A: No, and if it does, it's usually for the better! As we mentioned earlier, male animals in particular are likely to develop behavioral problems by not being neutered, so having the procedure done can actually help to keep them happy and chipper!

We know that it can be easy to worry about your pets in surgery, but when you choose Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, you can rest assured knowing that they are in great hands. Our highly trained veterinary technicians monitor your pet both during and after the procedure, and are committed to making this experience easy for both you and them.

Still have questions? We'd love to be able to answer them and put your mind at ease - just call (908) 464-0023.

The Benefits of Adopting a Cat

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital

269 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922

(908) 464-0023

Did you know? June is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month! As is explained by the ASPCA, June begins the height of kitten season, which means there will be tons and tons of felines out there looking for their forever homes. That said, there's no better time than now to start your search for the perfect addition to your home if you've been thinking about adopting! But if you haven't been, here are 7 reasons why you should adopt a cat right now:

1. Adopting a cat helps you contribute to the larger effort that is to minimize overpopulation in shelters.
2. Animal shelters are truly focused on the best interests of the animals rather than making a sale, so you can rest assured knowing that your kitten has been well taken care of before they enter your home.
3. If you find the right place, sheltered cats may already be spayed or neutered so that you don't have to take on the responsibility of having it done (if your cat hasn't had this type of medical attention yet, though, we can help with that!).
4. Between their sweet, soothing purrs and soft fur, cats are awesome stress relievers for their owners.
5. Cats can be extremely independent, so your schedule won't be too heavily impacted by having one to care for.
6. Cats can be the best friend you never knew you were missing and will stand by you every step of the way.

And most importantly, the seventh reason why you should consider adopting a cat is that you'll be saving a life.

Do we have you convinced yet? If you're ready to rescue a kitten and make them the newest member of your family, know that the team here at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital will be there for all of their medical needs! From spays and neuters to dentistry, other surgical procedures and emergency care, we truly do it all.

For more information about our veterinary care services, please visit our website or call (908) 464-0023. And don't forget, the first exam for all new clients is FREE!

How To Make Your First Vet Trip Easy On Your Cat

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital

269 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922

(908) 464-0023

If you have a cat at home, then you already know how difficult it can be to try and get them in the car to go anywhere, let alone to go the vet. But what if we told you that it doesn't actually have to be hard? That's right! As long as you know how to properly handle your cat and prepare them for their visit, you'll find that bringing them in for a check-up or procedure isn't so bad after all.

For those of you who recently brought a new cat into your home, read on to learn how to make their first trip to the vet an easy one.

Introduce your cat to their carrier: Your cat should be comfortable on the car ride to and from the vet, so make sure that their first visit isn't also the first time they're placed in a carrier. If it is, they could experience some additional unwanted stress! Once you make an appointment with the vet, start encouraging your cat to use the carrier as a place to nap or spend some of his/her free time so that it becomes associated with pleasurable activities.

Take short drives around town: Although there are some cats who will just never be a fan of the car, you can help them get used to the idea of it by taking yours on short trips around town every once and a while. Even if you only drive around the block for your first few trips, just having your cat in the car for a few minutes will help them become more comfortable with the idea of driving.

Pack toys and treats: You probably don't enjoy the feeling of being poked and prodded at the doctor, so it's no surprise that cats feel the same way too. But since your vet will need to handle your cat for a bit to ensure it's in good health, it's always helpful if you bring one of their favorite toys and a treat or two that you can use to take their mind off of what's really happening.

At Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, our veterinarians understand that a pet's first visit to the doctor can be difficult - that's why we'll provide only the best care and do everything we can to help keep them calm! To schedule an appointment for their first exam (FREE for new clients!), contact us at (908) 464-0023 today.

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.

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!

Learn More About National Veterinary Technician Week

Did you know that National Veterinary Technician Week is October 11-17, 2015? The nationwide observance honors veterinary technicians, who are crucial to the day-to-day success of veterinary practice. Learn more about the celebration below:


National Veterinary Technician Week began back in 1993, and it takes place every year in the third week of October. It's the perfect opportunity to acknowledge the contributions made by veterinary technicians across the nation.

Veterinary technicians help keep our pets healthy and safe!  According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, veterinary technicians assist with all the following tasks:

• Obtaining and recording patient case histories
• Collecting specimens and performing laboratory procedures
• Providing specialized nursing care
• Preparing animals, instruments and surgical equipment
• Assisting in diagnostic, medical, and surgical procedures
• Exposing and developing x-rays
• Advising and educating animal owners
• Supervising and training practice personnel
• Performing dental prophylaxes

We'd like to take a moment to recognize Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital's spectacular veterinary technicians. Thank you for all you do, and Happy National Veterinary Technician Week!

To make an appointment for your pet, give us a call today at 908-464-0023. Keep up with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital by connecting with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube!

The Best Age to Spay or Neuter

Here at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, we recommend spaying or neutering your new furry friend at or around 6 months of age. Some argue that spaying and neutering pets too early can have negative consequences, but no studies prove this to be true.

So what makes 6 months old a good age for spaying and neutering? Proponents assert that performing the surgery earlier in life can help curb obesity, prevent behavioral issues and reduce the risk of cancer in dogs and cats.

If you're considering whether or not to have your cat or dog spayed or neutered, keep the following points in mind:

• Unspayed female pets are at a higher risk for mammary tumors and uterine infection
• Female dogs and cats never completely stop going into heat, so there are potential problems of pregnancy at an advanced age
• Unneutered males can develop behavior problems such as urinating in the house or spraying on the furniture; mounting people or objects; and aggressive tendencies making them less desirable companions
• By spaying and neutering our pets, we can all help to reduce the overpopulation of dogs and cats.

Have additional questions for Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital? Dial 908-464-0023 to make an appointment or speak with a veterinarian.

Don't forget to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube!

When Can I Expect My Puppy to Calm Down?

Anybody who's invited a puppy into their home knows it can be chaotic. You may at first be taken aback by his seemingly boundless energy and keen curiosity. Don't worry! As your new four-legged friend grows and matures, she'll also calm down.

Until your pup is about 16 weeks old, there will be a lot of boundary testing. Don't be alarmed if rules aren't always followed and commands are forgotten. Bear in mind that dogs will also start losing their teeth between 10 and 16 weeks of age.

At 4-6 months, puppies will begin play fighting with one another. This is not a red flag, but rather a way for dogs to establish where they fit in.

From months 6 to 12, your young furry friend might look like a full-grown dog, but he's still a pup! Dogs in this age group require a lot of structured play and exercise. Keep training and socializing to improve your companion's behavior.

Once your puppy has reached 1-2 years of age, she's likely to start calming down. (Congrats!) Sure, she'll still have a playful attitude, but she'll have a better understanding of boundaries and rules.

If you'd like to talk to a veterinarian about your pet's energy levels, give Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital a call today at 908-464-0023. Request an appointment at our website.

For more tips from Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, connect 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.

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!

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.

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!

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital Is LIVE on Social Media!

Whether you want to keep up with all of our updates or you simply love Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, we invite you to join us on social media! We're LIVE on all of your favorite platforms.

Facebook

What could be better than pet care tips and tricks popping up on your News Feed? Like us on Facebook today to stay on top of the latest and greatest in veterinary care. You'll also learn a bit more about the services we offer.

Twitter

Follow Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital on Twitter @BHanimalhsptl for information from our animal hospital and retweets from some of the top names in pet care. (Plus, we throw in lots of cute photos of our furry friends!)

Google+

Do you use Google's social network? If so, follow Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital today. We'll add you back to our circles!

YouTube

For all you video lovers, we'd love it if you'd subscribe to our YouTube channel. In fact, here's a peek at one of our videos:

Of course, if you'd rather get in touch on the phone, we have one of those too. Dial 908-464-0023 to make an appointment with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital.

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!

The Benefits of Having a Pet

Those of us who have a pet already understand some of the more basic benefits -- companionship, stress relief, and affection. But there are lesser-known benefits of having a pet as well. Below, we outline a few:

1. Protection against heart disease

According to the American Heart Association, owning a pet is associated with a reduced risk for heart disease. There are a number of factors that influence this relationship, including physical activity and social support.

2. Pain management

Marty Becker, DVM, veterinary consultant for Good Morning America, tells Woman's Day that pets can actually help ease pain! People dealing with migraines and arthritis may find that having a dog or cat around reduces pain intensity. In fact, a recent study from Loyola University found that those who incorporate pet therapy into their post-surgery recovery may need less pain medication.

3. Allergy prevention

A new study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that "mice exposed to dust from homes with dogs were protected against allergens known to trigger asthma," reports Prevention. Apparently the dust helps to enrich a variety of stomach bacteria that will help protect airways against allergens.

What do you think -- what are some benefits of having a pet? Share your ideas with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube!

Spaying and Neutering: Fact vs. Fiction

There are a lot of rumors out there about spaying and neutering. Today, we're taking the opportunity to separate fact from fiction.

FICTION: Having your pet "fixed" is bad for his or her health.

FACT: Spaying and neutering reduces a pet's risk for cancers in the breasts, uterus, testicles and prostate.

FICTION: I should let my female have a litter before spaying her.

FACT: There is no evidence that allowing your pet to have a litter before spaying offers any benefit.

FICTION: I can't afford to spay or neuter my pet.

FACT: You can't afford not to spay or neuter your pet. According to the MSPCA, "The cost of caring for just one litter of puppies or kittens will far outweigh the one-time cost of this important surgery.  You'll not just save money in the long run, you'll save time and energy, too."

FICTION: My pet will mourn the loss of his or her reproductive capabilities.

FACT: Pets don't dream about raising a family. "Female dogs nurse for a few weeks, teach the puppies rules, boundaries, and limitations and send them off to join the pack. Male dogs are not 'fathers' in the human sense of the word; they do not even recognize puppies as their own," advises dog expert Cesar Millan.

Why should you schedule your pet's surgery at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital? We provide a number of benefits you won't find elsewhere, including:

• Sedative and pain management medications
• Choice of laser surgery
• Heated surgery table
• Monitoring of heart rate and oxygen level
• ICU cage for recovery
• Complimentary pedicure
• Suture removal, if necessary, in 10 to 14 days.

Dial 908-464-0023 to schedule your pet's appointment. Remember, by spaying and neutering our pets, we can all help to reduce the overpopulation of dogs and cats.

Connect with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube for more tips!

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital: Our History

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital has a strong history of cutting-edge veterinary care! We've been caring for pets since 1976.

Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital: Our History

Located at 269 Springfield Ave. in Berkeley Heights, NJ, our animal hospital serves Summit, New Providence, Scotch Plains, Murray Hill, Plainfield, South Plainfield, Chatham, Westfield, Mountainside, Warren, Stirling, Watchung, Gillette and Fanwood.

Since we opened our doors in 1976, we've maintain a friendly and helpful staff. We go out of our way to help your pets simply because we have a genuine love of animals! Berkeley Heights Animal ospital offers a "small town" feel combined with cutting-edge veterinary care.

We're owned by Newton Veterinary Hospital, and connected with Budd Lake Animal Hospital and the Upper East Side Animal Hospital. This allows us to offer 24-hour veterinary service to all clients.

We've come a long way since our start in the 1970s, but our mission has remained the same: To treat you and your pet like family!

Learn more about our animal hospital at our website, and dial 908-464-0023 to make an appointment. Don't forget to connect with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube!

How Neutering Affects Your Pet

There are lots of rumors about how neutering affects your pet -- low energy levels, high cost and resentment being just a few. But the truth is that neutering your pet offers a multitude of benefits. Below, we outline how neutering will change your pet for the better!

1. Medical benefits

Neutering your pet can help prevent testicular cancer and prostate cancer. These diseases are fairly common in older male dogs. Having your pet neutered at a young age is a smart move in terms of keeping him healthy.

2. Behavioral improvements

According to the ASPCA, "Neutering won't affect your dog’s working abilities, friendliness, playfulness or personality." In fact, it will likely have a positive impact on your pet's testosterone-driven behaviors like urine marking and roaming.

3. Control pet overpopulation

Far too many pets are euthanized each year because they can't find a home. Neutering your pet helps control the overpopulation crisis we're experiencing here in the United States.

The experts of Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital offer dog and cat spays and neuters. We make the experience as painless as possible; your pet is given a sedative and pain management medication prior to surgery to minimize anxiety and discomfort. Learn more about our spaying and neutering services here, or give us a call at 908-464-0023.

Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube for more tips!