Last updated 1 year ago
Animal Fair magazine has rated New York America’s pet-friendliest destination. While this is proof that it is possible to keep a pet happy in the Big Apple, the lifestyle you live in New York may induce restrictions on which pet you can own and care for properly, restrictions that people living elsewhere in the United States do not have to consider. This guide can help you choose the right pet for you and your family’s New York lifestyle.
Consider your home.
Some animals, like horses and even large dogs, require a lot of space to be able to live comfortably. If you, like many other Manhattan homeowners, have a small living area, then consider choosing a small dog, cat, or rabbit that will not be claustrophobic in your home.
Think about your lifestyle.
Do you spend ten hours a day at work and have an hour-long commute? Some pets are higher maintenance than others, and you do not want to own a pet unless you can give it the care it deserves.
Know what type of pet is right for your children.
If you have small children in your home and you are considering getting a small or medium-sized dog, then it is a good idea for your children to meet any dog you plan on bringing home before you agree to buy it.
Consider family allergies, preferences, and fears.
After determining what pets you can potentially accommodate and care for, further narrow down your options by ruling out those pets that may flare up allergies or frighten someone in your household. Discuss your remaining options and consider you and your family’s personal preferences.
Do not rush.
Once you have decided what type of pet you would like to care for in your home, start looking for the newest member of the family. Be patient and do not decide on a specific pet until you and others in your family connect with a pet that you know will be the perfect addition to your clan.
Once you have made arrangements to buy or adopt a pet, schedule an appointment with your local veterinarian to assess your new pet’s health and take care of any necessary vaccines. For the best medical care a Manhattan pet can receive, use the vet services available at the Heart of Chelsea Animal Hospital. Call us at (917) 675-3708 to find out more about our veterinary care.
Last updated 1 year ago
If your pet is your best friend, then check out these resources for more helpful hints on maintaining your pet’s health. For expert veterinary services to keep your pet healthy, contact Heart of Chelsea Animal Hospital at our website or call (917) 675-3708.
- Find a dog-friendly park near you through the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation.
- Learn about some new activities you and your dog will love from this DogTime.com article.
- Don’t let bad weather stop playtime for you and your dog. eHow.com has tips on how to exercise your dog indoors.
- Check out this WebMD slideshow about foods that you should keep away from your dog.
- Keep your cat healthy by knowing what’s healthy. Dummies.com has the rundown on the ideal diet for your cat.
Last updated 1 year ago
Come check out Heart of Chelsea's cat and kitten adoption event on Friday, August 5 from 12-6 p.m., and pick out your irresistibly cute family member.
Last updated 1 year ago
There are so many types of food available for dogs and cats; it’s hard to know which ones are going to provide the health benefits you desire for your pet. Your veterinarian is the best resource for deciding on the best food for your pet, but there are some general guidelines you should consider when shopping for pet food.
- Know What to Avoid: There are some foods you should never feed to your pet. It’s easy to let your pet persuade you to share your food, but establishing the boundaries of people food and pet food will ultimately benefit your pet’s health.
- Seek a Balanced Diet: Much like people, animals require a balance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and other nutrients. Get into the habit of reading pet food labels to ensure that the food you buy offers the nutrients your pet needs. Most pet foods will follow the guidelines set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials, and these foods will have an AAFCO adequacy statement on the label.
- Shop for Your Pet’s Age and Size: Cats and dogs both come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and different foods will cater to the varying needs of pets small and large. Your pet’s nutritional needs will also vary depending on age. Most pet food brands produce foods for various stages of a pet’s life.
- Trust Your Pet’s Taste: Ultimately, your pet will let you know if you are feeding it the best type of food. Allow your pet time to adjust to any dietary change. Give a new food a 4-6 week trial period. Your pet will appear healthy and have a shiny coat if it’s properly fed. Healthy stool will indicate that your pet is digesting their food properly. Diarrhea or abnormal droppings are a sign that your pet is not digesting food properly.
A healthy diet will help your pet enjoy a long life. Taking a trip to the vet is the best way to establish an individualized diet that is most beneficial to your pet. Heart of Chelsea Animal Hospital offers expert pet care to keep your pet healthy. Give us a call at (917) 675-3708 or visit our website for more information.
