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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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!

3 Reasons to Choose Us for Your Pet's Surgery

Whether you're ready to spay your pup or you're looking to declaw your cat, choose Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital for a safe and thorough surgery. Our surgical suite is equipped with state-of-the-art monitoring equipment.

Some of our hospital's more common procedures include:

• Dog and cat spay (ovariohysterectomy)
• Dog and cat neuter (castration)
• Cat declaw, puppy tail dock and dewclaw removal
• Wart/cyst/mass removal
• Suturing lacerations
• Foreign body removal
• Ear hematoma repair
• Hernia repair
• Cherry eye surgery (third eyelid)
• Caesarean section (C-section)
• Exploratory abdominal surgery
• Cystotomy
• Splenectomy
• Gastronomy
• Companion animal laser therapy

Why choose us for your pet's surgery?

1. We require pre-anesthetic blood testing 

Because a physical exam alone may not identify all health problems, Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital requires pre-anesthetic blood tests be performed within 30 days of your pet's procedure. We use this information to tailor an anesthetic protocol especially for your pet, ensuring he's safe and comfortable throughout the surgery.

2. We offer post-procedure assistance

We understand that surgery can be stressful -- for you and your pet. That's why we go the distance to make the surgical procedure as painless as possible. In fact, we'll send pain medication home for your pet if we foresee that she will need them following the procedure. We also encourage you to monitor your pet for signs of pain or discomfort. Don't hesitate to contact us with concerns!

3. We've teamed up with Newton Veterinary Hospital

By joining forces with Newton Veterinary Hospital, clients of the Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital will also benefit from the tremendous resources and services of a 24-hour veterinary hospital. In case of post-surgery emergency, Newton Veterinary Hospital offers the following:

• Intensive care ward
• Animal blood bank
• Specialists
• In-house laboratory

Your pet's surgery -- no matter how big or small -- is important to us here at Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital. Call us today to make an appointment​: 908-464-0023.

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 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.

Hot Weather Tips for Your Pets

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

1. Schedule a check-up

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

2. Provide lots of shade

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

3. Familiarize yourself with warning signs

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

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

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

Why National Mutt Day Matters

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips and Tricks for Traveling with Your Pet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pool Safety Tips for Pets

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

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

1. Limit access to the pool area

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

2. Get your pet a life jacket

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

3 .Keep the pool water drinking to a minimum

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

4. Pay attention to the heat

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

5. Create an easy way in and out

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

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

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.

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!