We’ve all heard of Lyme disease. For many of us in the New York area, the term can elicit worry, or cause a shudder down the spine. That’s because the condition, caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, can cause serious disease in people and pets alike. And, since Lyme disease is endemic in our area, [...]

After being homebound for the last year, normality is gradually returning. While this is good news for humans, your dog may not agree. Dogs are social creatures and love their humans being close at paw. When you return to your regular routine, your dog may find the transition difficult. And, if you adopted a “pandemic [...]

While we have learned a great deal about COVID-19 and its causative pathogen, the SARS-CoV-2 virus, there is still much to discover. To ensure your pet and your family remain as safe as possible from this threat, our Best Friends Veterinary Care team provides updates on the global pandemic. Let’s take a look at your [...]

With the overwhelming amount of pet food choices available, choosing the right product for your pet can be extremely difficult. Many pet foods claim to be “all natural,” “organic,” or “grain-free,” but does this mean they are healthier options for our furry friends? Choosing a healthy diet for your pet is an important decision that [...]

Your dog’s bones and joints withstand a lot of wear and tear, especially if they are an energetic Labrador retriever or rambunctious German shepherd. In addition, some dog breeds are genetically predisposed to orthopedic problems and more likely to be affected. If your dog develops a sudden lameness or seems painful, a thorough exam and [...]

Pet dental disease is preventable and treatable, yet 85% of pets have tooth problems by age 3, and dental disease is the most commonly diagnosed pet problem. Best Friends Veterinary Care wants to answer this question: Why do so many pets suffer with tooth problems? One of our most knowledgeable patients, Darren the dachshund, lists [...]

Regular veterinary wellness visits—and not only visits when your pet is sick—are fundamental to their health and general well-being. Annual or biannual visits give your veterinarian the opportunity to track your pet’s health and identify problems early. Learn what a veterinary wellness visit entails, and its importance to your pet’s health. Thorough physical exam Our [...]

Losing a beloved pet is an experience no one wishes to endure. Most pet owners anticipate an eventual loss when they bring home a new pet, but facing the actual event is never easy. And, as difficult as this process is for us, did you ever consider how your other pets would handle this transition? [...]

Here at Best Friends Veterinary Care, we’re excited to use treatment modalities that create the fewest side effects, but are still extremely effective. We’ve embraced traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM), acupuncture, and herbal medicine, and we also offer laser therapy. You may not have heard much about this treatment modality for cats and dogs, especially [...]

As you look at your tubby tabby lounging in the windowsill, you probably think your cat has the life—every day they have a full food dish, endless cat naps, and a handy servant who scratches behind their ears. Your feline friend may appear content, but as time goes on, they pack on the pounds and [...]