Fast Facts about Spaying & Neutering

There's so much misinformation out there when it comes to spaying and neutering, Before you make a decision for your pet, it's important to get the facts straight. Read on for fast facts about spaying and neutering from the ASPCA, the American Humane Association and the Humane Society of the United States.

Medical benefits

• Spaying and neutering helps control our country's pet homelessness crisis
• Spaying your female pet will help her live a longer, healthier life
• Spaying helps prevent uterine infections and breast tumors, which are cancerous in approximately 50 percent of dogs and 90 percent of cats
• Female pets live healthier lives if they never sexually mature
• Neutering your male pet helps prevent certain prostate issues as well as testicular cancer

Behavioral benefits

• Spayed female pets will not go into heat
• For cats, this will eliminate yowling and frequent indoor urination
• Neutered dogs are less likely to run away from home
• Neutered dogs and cats tend to behave better, including decreased aggression

If you're interested in spaying or neutering your pet, contact Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital today. We'll make sure your furry friend is safe and comfortable throughout the procedure! Connect with us by calling 908-464-0023. Don't forget to find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube!

Neutering Your Dog: What You Need to Know

Is it time to neuter your dog? Here at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, we recommend you spay or neuter your pet at 6 months of age. Before you pick up the phone and make an appointment, here's what you need to know about neutering your puppy:

• Neutering is a common surgery that is totally safe. We perform blood work to make sure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia and administer IV fluids throughout the surgery to help sustain body temperature, fluid and electrolyte levels. We also provide sedative and pain management medications as needed. Find out more about our spay and neuter process at our website.
  
• Your pet will be happier and healthier. Neutering your dog will eliminate the risk of testicular cancer and help reduce his risk for prostate cancer. Many pet parents also report improvement in roaming, marking and aggression.
  
• Neutering does not cause weight gain. This is a common myth that needs to be squashed! Dogs, like humans, will gain weight if they're given too much food or are not active enough. To prevent weight gain, be sure to walk your pooch often and provide healthy meals.
  
• Having your pup neutered will help control overpopulation. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) reports that approximately 3.9 million dogs enter U.S. animal shelters every year. Neuter your dog to prevent more homeless puppies!

To make an appointment or speak with one of our veterinarians about neutering your dog, give us a call today at 908-464-0023. Don't forget to find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube!

4 Fall Activities for You and Your Pet

As cooler weather enters our area and we close up our windows and doors, you and your pet might feel a bit cooped up. Just because it's fall doesn't mean the outdoor fun has to end! Here are four fall activities you can enjoy together:

 

1. Get some yard work done


OK, raking leaves may not sound like a whole lot of fun. But when you invite your furry friend along, yard work becomes an entirely new experience! What's cuter than watching your cat or dog chase leaves around the yard?

2. Go for a hike

Is your pet the adventurous type? Take her on a hike to explore the great outdoors! Just don't forget to pack a water dish and some food for your trusty companion.

3. Have a festive photo shoot

Admit it: Your phone's camera roll is filled to the brim with shots of your pet. Unfortunately candid pictures don't always turn out so well, especially if your mushy mutt has a lot of energy. Get him to pose by holding a treat or toy near your camera.

4. Celebrate Sunday football

Is your team's performance subpar this season? Stop screaming at the TV, and play fetch with your dog instead!

What activities do you and your pet enjoy during the fall? Share your thoughts with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital 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!

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!

Fact Friday: All About Felines

In honor of Fact Friday, we're shining the spotlight on our feline friends. There's probably lots you don't know about your cat! Let's take a look at some cat facts you may find surprising:

1. Cats' front paws have five toes, and their back paws have four
2. In the US, there are 88 million cats and 74 million dogs, making them the most popular pet
3. Cats begin dreaming when they're just one week old
4. Kitty litter was made from sand until 1948, when researchers found that clay was more absorbent
5. While the human ear only has six muscles, a cat's ear has 32
6. A cat ran for mayor of Mexico City back in 2013
7. Cats don't like their food too hot or too cold -- they prefer room temperature
8. The cat flap door was created by Isaac Newton
9. The average cat will sleep for about 70 percent of its life
10. An adult cat will only meow in order to communicate with a human

Did you learn anything new about your furry friend? Happy Fact Friday! Share your cat facts with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital on Facebook, Twitter and Google+!

To make an appointment with one of our veterinarians, give us a call at 908-464-0023. We treat your sick pets like family!

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!

Pets Get Allergies, Too!

Lots of people are allergic to pets. But did you know that our furry friends can have allergies, too?

Pets with allergies can have extreme reactions to everyday substances that probably seem pretty normal to us. As autumn approaches, bear in mid that dogs and cats can have allergic reactions to pollen from trees, grass, weeds, molds and mildews -- just like us!

Our sweet companions can be allergic to a number of other substances as well, including:

• Certain foods
• Fleas and flea-control medications
• Certain prescriptions 
• Fragrances
• Cleaners
• Smoke from cigarettes
• Certain fabrics
• Rubber and plastic

Not sure if your pet has allergies? We advise keeping an eye out for the following symptoms in cats and dogs:

• Sneezing, coughing and wheezing
• Scratching more than usual (skin, eyes, tail, ears)
• Vomiting and diarrhea 
• Snoring (due to irritated throat)
• Swelling of paws

It's important to gain control of your pet's allergies as soon as possible. Contact Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital at 908-464-0023 for more information or to make an appointment. We will treat your sick pets like family!

Get more tips on pet health 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.

How to Introduce Your Dog to Other Dogs

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Handle an Injured Pet

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

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

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

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

2. Keep a safe distance away

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

3. Call us up right away

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

Other things to keep in mind:

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

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

Hot Weather Tips for Your Pets

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

1. Schedule a check-up

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

2. Provide lots of shade

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

3. Familiarize yourself with warning signs

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

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

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

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+!

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.