June is National Adopt a Cat Month — a wonderful reminder to consider opening your heart and home to a furry feline companion. Cats can bring immense joy and comfort to their families, so if you’ve been thinking about adopting one, there’s no better time than now!

This month, our team at Sleepy Hollow Animal Hospital is celebrating the many whiskered faces that purr through our doors each day, and while we are encouraging those who have not yet taken part in owning a ferocious cuddly feline to consider adopting.  Here are some helpful tips for new cat parents to get started on the right paw.

Bringing home a new cat is exciting, but preparation is key to ensuring your new pet settles in comfortably. Here are some essential tips:

1. Prepare a Quiet, Safe Space

Set up a cozy area with food, water, a litter box, toys, and a comfortable bed where your cat can acclimate slowly.

2. Schedule a Vet Visit Early

Book a wellness exam with our team at Sleepy Hollow Animal Hospital soon after adoption to check your cat’s health, vaccinations, and to discuss preventive care.

3. Cat-Proof Your Home

Remove toxic plants, secure loose wires, and keep harmful substances out of reach.

4. Provide Enrichment

Cats love to climb, scratch, and explore. Offer scratching posts, interactive toys, and window perches to keep them happy and stimulated.

5. Be Patient and Gentle

Let your cat explore at their own pace. Use treats and play to build trust and strengthen your bond.

As the sunny season approaches in Sleepy Hollow, New York, it’s a perfect time to enjoy the outdoors with your furry friends. But as temperatures climb, it’s also crucial to prioritize your pet’s safety and health. Our team at Sleepy Hollow Animal Hospital is here to ensure you have the knowledge you need to keep your pets safe all summer long.

Here are some practical, veterinarian-approved ways to keep your pets safe in the heat:

1. Stay Hydrated: Always provide fresh, cool water, and consider adding ice cubes on particularly hot days.
2. Create Cool Spaces: Make sure your pets have access to shaded areas or cool rooms inside your home. Fans or air conditioning can help keep them comfortable.
3. Choose the Right Time for Outdoor Fun: Walk your pets early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower.
4. Watch Those Paws: Hot pavement can burn your pet’s paws. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. Try grassy areas instead.

Never Leave Pets in a Parked Car: Even with windows cracked, a car can become dangerously hot within minutes.

Living near the Hudson River, Sleepy Hollow residents often experience high humidity levels during summer. Humidity can hinder pets’ ability to cool themselves, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. Be extra vigilant on humid days, and limit your pets’ outdoor exposure accordingly.

As the warmth of spring arrives in the Hudson Valley, so does the beginning of tick season. During the spring months, ticks become more active, seeking out hosts to latch onto. This makes it crucial for pet owners to be extra vigilant about tick protection. It is important to understand the risks ticks pose to our pets and take the necessary steps to protect them.

The good news is that tick-borne diseases can be preventable with proper care. By staying ahead of tick season and using the right protection methods, you can greatly reduce your pet’s risk of tick infestations and the associated diseases.

Here are some protective options to consider:

Medications to protect against ticks – There are various tick preventatives available, including oral medications, topical treatments, and tick collars. These products kill or repel ticks, with the ultimate goals of killing the ticks and preventing disease transmission. Your veterinarian can help recommend the best option for your pet based on their species, age, size, and health status.

As we just wrapped up National Tick Awareness Month in March, now is the perfect time to protect your pets from ticks and the diseases they carry. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule a preventative care appointment at Sleepy Hollow Animal Hospital today to ensure that your pet is fully protected for the upcoming spring and summer months. Our team of veterinarians is here to guide you in selecting the best tick protection methods and offer any necessary treatments to keep your furry friend feeling their best!

Let’s keep your pet safe and healthy this tick season, call or click here for an appointment today!

As the days grow longer and flowers begin to bloom, springtime in Sleepy Hollow brings beautiful scenery and refreshing outdoor adventures. However, for many pets, it also means sneezing, itching, and discomfort caused by seasonal allergies. Just like humans, our furry friends can be sensitive to pollen, mold, dust mites, and other environmental irritants that emerge during the Spring months.

Understanding the signs of allergies and taking proactive steps to minimize exposure can help keep your pet comfortable all season long.

Here are some ways to reduce allergens and help your pet enjoy spring to the fullest:

1. Keep Paws and Fur Clean 

After outdoor walks or playtime, wipe your pet’s paws and fur with pet-safe wipes or a damp cloth to remove pollen and other allergens. Bathing your pet regularly with a pet shampoo can also help reduce irritation.

2. Maintain a Clean Living Environment for You and Your Pet

Frequent cleaning can help minimize allergens in your home. Vacuum carpets, wash pet bedding and toys, and use air purifiers to trap pollen and dust. Keeping windows closed on high-pollen days can also prevent allergens from entering your home.

3. Simplify Your Pet’s Space

Minimizing clutter in your pet’s resting area can help reduce allergen buildup. Opt for easy-to-clean surfaces like tile or hardwood instead of carpet, and keep rugs, curtains, and fabric furniture to a minimum. Using an air purifier in this space can further help filter out allergens, creating a cleaner and more comfortable environment for your pet.

4. Adjust Outdoor Time

Check local pollen counts and plan outdoor activities accordingly. Walk your pet early in the morning or later in the evening when pollen levels tend to be lower.

5. Consider Dietary Supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids and other skin-supporting supplements may help improve your pet’s coat health and reduce inflammation associated with allergies. Ask one of our veterinarians about the best options for your pet.

6. Schedule Veterinary Care

If your pet struggles with ongoing allergy symptoms, there are remedies that can help.  These treatments range from topical preparations, oral medications and injectable treatments.  Allergy testing is also an option when other strategies don’t work.  Allergy testing can help pinpoint specific triggers allowing us to tailor treatment specific for your pet’s allergy profile.  Make an appointment today with one of our veterinarians to discuss what treatment options might be best for your pet. 

February is American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart health. While much of the focus is on human heart conditions, it’s also an excellent opportunity to shed light on heart disease in our beloved pets. At Sleepy Hollow Animal Hospital, we believe that knowledge is key to keeping your furry family members healthy and happy.

Heart disease can significantly impact your pet’s quality of life and, if left untreated, may lead to heart failure. While both cats and dogs can suffer from heart-related conditions, it’s important to note that dogs are generally more susceptible to heart disease and heart complications than cats. Recognizing the signs early can make a substantial difference in managing the disease effectively.

Common signs include:

• Persistent coughing
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• Fatigue or reluctance to exercise
• Fainting or collapsing
• Swollen abdomen due to fluid buildup
• Weight loss or poor appetite

Symptoms can be subtle and easily mistaken for other health issues. We encourage you to seek veterinary care if you notice any of these common signs.

Dog Breeds Prone to Heart Disease:

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (prone to mitral valve disease) 

Boxers (prone to arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy)

Doberman Pinschers (prone to dilated cardiomyopathy)

Great Danes (prone to dilated cardiomyopathy)

Dachshunds (prone to mitral valve disease)

Irish Wolfhounds (prone to dilated cardiomyopathy)

As the holiday season approaches, many people consider giving pets as gifts. While the idea of surprising a loved one with a furry companion can be heartwarming, it’s essential to recognize that pet ownership is a long-term commitment that requires careful thought and planning. Here are some important considerations to help ensure that pets are welcomed into homes responsibly.

Is the Recipient Ready for Pet Ownership?

Not everyone is equipped to handle the demands of a pet. Consider the recipient’s lifestyle, living situation, and willingness to care for an animal. Pets need daily attention, exercise, proper nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups. A young child may not be ready for the responsibility, and some adults may not have the time, resources, or energy to care for a pet.

Match the Pet to the Owner’s Lifestyle

Each pet has its own needs. Some breeds require more exercise, grooming, or training than others. For example, a high-energy dog may not be the best choice for someone who works long hours, while a more independent cat might be ideal for someone with a busy schedule. It’s crucial to match the pet’s personality and care requirements with the recipient’s lifestyle.

Consider the Long-Term Commitment

Pets can live for many years. Dogs and cats, for instance, can live up to 15 years or longer. It’s important to consider whether the recipient can care for the pet over its entire lifespan, including any potential health issues that may arise as the pet ages.

Financial Responsibility

Pets come with financial obligations. Food, toys, grooming, medical care, vaccinations, and pet insurance are just a few of the possible costs of pet ownership. Before gifting a pet, ensure that the recipient is financially prepared to cover these expenses.

Prepare the Home

A pet needs a safe, comfortable environment. If you’re considering gifting a pet, help the recipient make sure their home is pet-friendly. This means having a designated area for the pet to sleep, play, and exercise, as well as removing any dangerous items (toxic plants, chemicals, etc.) from the home.

As the holiday season approaches, many families plan to travel to see loved ones, explore new destinations, or simply get away for some rest. When pets are part of the family, they often join the journey, whether by car, plane, or train. While traveling with pets can be a joyful experience, it does require preparation to ensure they’re safe, comfortable, and ready for the trip.

Here’s a helpful guide with tips for traveling safely with pets and a list of essentials to make their holiday journey smooth and enjoyable.

2. Traveling by Plane

Know the Airline’s Pet Policy: Check with the airline for their pet travel policies. Some allow pets in the cabin, while others may only offer cargo travel for animals. Be sure to confirm the requirements for carriers, vaccinations, and travel fees.

Prepare Your Pet for the Carrier: Most airlines have specific guidelines for carriers that fit under the seat. Get your pet accustomed to this space ahead of time, and place a familiar blanket or toy inside for added comfort.

Consider Sedation Carefully: If your pet tends to experience extreme anxiety, talk to your veterinarian about safe sedation options, but avoid self-medicating, as sedatives can have unexpected effects during air travel.

3. Traveling by Train

Check Pet Policies in Advance: Not all trains are pet-friendly, and some may only allow certain sizes or breeds. It’s best to contact the train company in advance to confirm.

Reserve a Pet-Friendly Spot: Many rail companies have designated areas for pets. Be sure to reserve a spot that will accommodate your pet comfortably, and keep them leashed or in a carrier throughout the trip.

Prepare for Restroom Breaks: Since train stops can be few and far between, plan accordingly. For smaller pets, training pads in the carrier can be helpful. For dogs, take advantage of longer station stops to give them a short walk.

Halloween isn’t just for humans—our pets love to join in the spooky fun, too! Dressing up your pet for Halloween can be an adorable way to celebrate the season, but it’s important to prioritize their safety while they rock those cute costumes. In this blog, we’ll share the top 10 trendiest Halloween costume ideas for your pet, with a safety tip for each one to ensure your furry friend has a safe and spooktacular time!

There’s nothing quite like the joy of having a pet. Our furry companions quickly become cherished members of our family, sharing in our daily lives and bringing endless joy. As they grow older, their place in our hearts only deepens. However, just like us, pets face new challenges as they age, and it becomes our responsibility to ensure their well-being during their senior years. Here are some tips that will help ensure they stay healthy throughout their golden years.

As temperatures soar during the hottest months of the year, ensuring your pets stay hydrated is more crucial than ever. Just like humans, pets need plenty of water to maintain their health and well-being. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues and, in severe cases, can be life-threatening. At Sleepy Hollow Animal Hospital, we want to help you keep your furry friends safe and hydrated all summer long.

It’s crucial to recognize the signs of dehydration in your pets. Early detection can prevent severe complications and ensure your pet receives timely care. Here are some signs to watch out for:

Dry Nose and Gums

A healthy pet’s nose (the part leading into the nostril) and gums should be moist. Dryness can be an early indicator of dehydration. This will vary by age and breed, but generally there should be a feeling of moisture on the nose and gums of all pets.

Lethargy and Weakness

Dehydrated pets often lack energy and may seem unusually tired or weak. This can show up as unwillingness to walk or get up from laying down, a slowness to their activities or unsteadiness when they are walking around.

Loss of Appetite

Pets that are dehydrated may not show interest in food. This is worrisome since not eating can lead to further dehydration.

Sunken Eyes

Eyes may appear sunken and lack their usual brightness. We all know what our pets’ eyes look like normally so if you don’t see that normal shine in their eyes, this can be a sign of a problem.

Panting and Rapid Heart Rate

Excessive panting and an unusually fast heartbeat can be signs of overheating and dehydration. All dogs will pant and all cats and dogs will have an elevated heart rate when exercising, but when their body is working harder to make up for a lack of water and electrolytes, these symptoms will be persistent and rehydration is necessary.

Loss of Skin Elasticity

Gently pinch the skin on the back of your pet’s neck; if it doesn’t spring back quickly, it could indicate dehydration. The skin will lose water when the body is in a dehydrated state and this shows up as a loss of elasticity to the skin.