A few hours before surgery

The office called me at home, “Dr. Funk – we have new patient here, a really friendly English Bulldog named Miss Muffin, who may need urgent surgery. The pet parents are working hard to find her help – Miss Muffin’s condition can’t wait until next week – are you available to come in this weekend?” It’s not that simple as I need an emergency team to come in with me for the surgery, but my Oath Animal Team circled the wagons. We were lucky we were able to coordinate a surgery team on very short notice to help.

Time of surgery

“What are you doing here?!” the regular Saturday team asked. I told them I was here to help a pet and my emergency technician was setting up the Operating Room as we speak. The unique feeling of ‘doing surgery when you don’t usually do surgery’ was only overshadowed by the task at hand – remove Miss Muffin’s severely infected uterus before she goes septic. A good  surgery was only the first step to success.

Recheck two weeks later

Miss Muffin had recovered without complications, her incision healed beautifully, and her true personality flourished. I had only seen her sick and infected so seeing her happy, playful, and pain-free was delightful. You couldn’t tell she has a life-saving surgery only days beforehand!

If the infection in her uterus spread, she could have become septic and could have died. One can imagine just how painful that must be and how that would make anyone feel!

Dog owners aim to provide the best possible life for their pets through good health and longevity. Intact female dogs face a significant yet avoidable health threat known as pyometra. Recognizing the severity of this disease along with the necessity of spaying your dog can save her life.

Unspayed female dogs can develop pyometra –  a dangerous uterine infection that can lead to death. The condition arises from hormonal changes after a female dog’s heat cycle which causes bacteria and pus to build up inside the uterus. Untreated pyometra develops rapidly and it poses a risk of causing sepsis or kidney failure and can lead to death. Common signs include, but are not limited to:

• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Increased thirst and urination
• Vomiting
• Abdominal swelling
• Fever
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge (in open pyometra)

Pyometra develops quickly which necessitates immediate veterinary treatment, making the condition significant and dangerous. Without treatment the infection will enter the bloodstream which results in septic shock followed by organ failure and death.

The best way to treat pyometra is to perform immediate surgical removal of the infected uterus through an ovariohysterectomy (spay). Surgical procedures on ill animals present higher risks compared to standard spays – internal blood vessels are more friable translating to bleeding being more likely and more difficult to stop. If not extremely careful, the infected uterine contents can spill into – and contaminate –  the abdomen, leading to ongoing infection.

The only way to guarantee prevention of pyometra is through spaying which involves the surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus. By spaying your dog you stop the hormonal changes that lead to pyometra development and protect your pet from this dangerous condition. The surgical procedure of spaying also lowers the threat of mammary tumors while eliminating the potential for uterine cancer and stopping unexpected pregnancies. Breed and size dictate the optimal time to spay dogs is between 6 and 18 months of age and coordinated at least 6-8 weeks after any estrus (heat) cycle occurs. Consistent with the phrase, better late than never, spaying older dogs remains beneficial because it continues to reduce their risk of developing pyometra and other reproductive-related diseases.

Dog owners need to know about pyometra since it is a dangerous and life-threatening condition that can generally be prevented. Spaying your dog protects her long-term health and well-being. If there are no plans to show or breed your female dog, please schedule a consult with Oath Animal Hospital to explore treatment options and create a plan. Taking proactive steps today will help maintain your pet’s health, avoid a painful, life-threatening potential, and keep her happy throughout her life.

View Miss Muffin’s recovery below!

On Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/DrMikeFunk/videos/1096398782288886

On Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/p/DGy_kfzi7W_

Dr. Mike Funk
DVM, Medical Director, Owner
Oath Animal Hospital

MARCH 2025

It was a year that stands as a testament to Oath’s expansion and strengthened community trust through perseverance and growth. When I wrapped up with the team, we all had a deep satisfaction and thankfulness as we completed the year. Our hospital, us as individuals, and our surrounding community experienced our significant growth throughout the last year.

Despite facing a few unexpected obstacles, my team demonstrated remarkable strength and resilience throughout the year. One doctor down for most of the year, we maintained our unwavering dedication to exceptional care despite all obstacles that came our way. The support from pet owners and our community members through conversation, online reviews, and a kind smile, often provided us with the motivation to just keep moving forward.

Adversity paled in comparison to our dedication to community programs. Despite logistic obstructions, we still expanded our presence beyond our hospital premises. Our primary focus has been to make a significant positive difference beyond veterinary services by organizing educational tours for children, sponsoring fundraisers for local animal rescues, and giving back to our community. Our mission at Oath is fundamentally centered on creating long-lasting connections with our community members not only through sharing the responsibility of pet ownership, but also engaging them outside the walls of our hospital. Girl Scout hospital tours, Dr. Funk’s Fantasy Football Invitational, and Brie-Bear’s Bear Repair are quickly becoming woven into the fabric of Oath Animal Hospital’s history.

A tremendous amount of pressure and perseverance in 2024 helped me narrow our larger focus on growing the hospital – we know we had room to provide our local area with more doctors and services. Reflecting back on the year, the difficult journey that was 2024 was the definitive process needed to set up Oath for a tremendous year to come! In early 2025, we have already doubled Oath’s veterinarians with the addition of an exceptional veterinarian, Dr. Olivia Grittani. We deepened our support team thus, expanding and developing the synergy that’s needed to provide the level of care we set as standard at Oath Animal Hospital. Our young hospital reflects our journey from simple origins to veterinary excellence through its embodiment of perseverance and dedication. We do things differently here – it has already come to be known as “The Oath Difference.”

No growth and increase should be done without acknowledging the shoulders that held you up. Reflecting on the year reminds me how thankful I am for the trust our clients have placed in Oath Animal Hospital. Your faith in my team – in me – Inspires our daily passion and commitment to both clients and community partners. We take great pride in being an integral part of your pet’s healthcare journey and promise to keep surpassing your expectations throughout the future years.

I am grateful for your engagement and support of Oath Animal Hospital to be – and surpass – the differences we can bring to pet medicine and veterinary client services. Let’s continue to celebrate the future filled with compassion, care, and excellence as Oath Animal Hospital continues to grow. Watch us narrow the distance between it being an amazing and exceptional animal hospital on Long Island and the future goals we have set for ourselves.

Thank you,

Dr. Mike Funk
DVM, Medical Director, Owner
Oath Animal Hospital

JANUARY 2025

Thanksgiving is the day of love, thanks and feasting so there is no doubt we’d like our furbabies to be part of the festivities. Despite all the festivities, we still want our pets to be healthy. Here, we will give you the important safety advice and activities that will make Thanksgiving special for you and your furry friends.

Thanksgiving Tips

Remember the Menu: While we feast on gallons of goodies, not everything on the Thanksgiving menu is pet-friendly. Don’t give them onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, liquor, or anything that is xylitol-sweetened. Rather, use pet-friendly treats or provide small amounts of healthy foods such as cooked turkey, bland sweet potatoes, or green beans.

Beware of Bones: You may want to share a turkey bone with your pet but it is incredibly dangerous. Dried bones break apart and may lead to choking or serious internal injuries. Instead, give them boneless, skinless bits of fried turkey.

Clear Countertops: In the clamoring kitchen, pets might steal a bite! Keep countertops clean and place all food away from the counter to ensure that it does not get eaten accidentally and exposes you to toxic chemicals.

Tie up that Trash: Drop turkey bones, food wrappers, and other potentially dangerous materials into a safe trash can. Excited pets might try their hand at exploring the rubbish and they can end up consuming toxic stuff.

Make a Safe Space: When you’re hosting guests, set up a quiet and comfortable place where your pets can go to escape the crowd. You should offer them the toys, bedding and water they love.

Don’t Use Decorated Plants: Many common Thanksgiving plants, including poinsettias, holly, and lilies, are poisonous to pets. Use dog-friendly décor or keep them away from kids.

Restrict Table Scraps: You may want to throw a little bit of everything out but don’t mess with table scraps. Consuming too many high-calorie or saturated foods can upset the stomach or worsen health conditions. Stick to small, safe portions.

Thanksgiving Fun for Furry Friends

Treats: Create a few homemade pet friendly treats to give your pets a special Thanksgiving meal of their own.

Thanksgiving Walk: Take your dogs for an autumn walk and enjoy all the sights and smells of the season. It’s a fun way to share and expend some extra holiday energy – not to mention good for our own digestion post-meal!

Gratitude Playtime: Spend time with your pets playing at their favorite activities. Give them some extra affection and love to show them that they’re a part of your family.

Thanksgiving is the day to enjoy our families, pets and friends. You will make the most of your safe holiday by heeding these safety precautions and throwing in some treats for your pets. Doing so will avoid what we in the veterinary field call the day after Thanksgiving, “Happy Pancreatitis Day!” We at Oath Animal Hospital want to wish you and your pet a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving!

NOVEMBER 2024

A Recent Discovery in Our Community

Recently, a feral cat in Nassau County tested positive for rabies. This incident underscores the importance of awareness and caution when encountering wild animals. At Oath Animal Hospital, we are committed to educating our community about potential risks and promoting preventive measures to ensure the health and safety of both pets and people.

The Risks of Rabies and Feral Animals

Rabies is a deadly viral disease that can affect all mammals, including humans, cats, and dogs. It is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, usually via bites. Feral cats, and even stray dogs, can be carriers of rabies, especially if they are unvaccinated and have been exposed to wildlife. The recent case in Nassau County highlights the importance of being cautious around feral animals and other wild creatures.

According to local health authorities, the rabid cat was found exhibiting symptoms consistent with the disease and subsequently tested positive for rabies. This finding serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by feral animals and the importance of public health measures. Source: Nassau County Health Department.

If you encounter a feral cat or dog, it’s crucial to remember the following:

1. Do Not Approach: Feral cats and dogs are not accustomed to human interaction and can react unpredictably. They may scratch or bite if they feel threatened.
2. Avoid Contact: Never attempt to pet or capture a feral animal, especially if it appears sick or behaves unusually (such as being overly aggressive or lethargic).
3. Report Suspicious Animals: If you see a feral animal displaying unusual behavior, contact your local animal control or public health department.

The Importance of Vaccinations for Cats and Dogs

This incident underscores the importance of keeping your pets up-to-date on vaccinations, including the rabies vaccine. Vaccinations are a vital part of your pet’s overall health and can prevent the spread of deadly diseases.

Why Vaccinate Your Pets?

1. Protect Your Pets: Vaccines protect against various diseases, including rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. These diseases can be fatal or cause long-term health issues in both cats and dogs.
2. Protect Your Family and Community: Vaccinating your pets helps prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Rabies, for instance, poses a serious risk to both pets and people.
3. Legal Requirements: In many areas, rabies vaccination is required by law for both cats and dogs. Keeping your pet’s vaccinations up-to-date ensures compliance with local regulations and protects public health.

How to Keep Your Pets Safe

• Regular Vet Visits: Schedule regular check-ups for your pets at Oath Animal Hospital. Our team can provide up-to-date vaccinations and preventive care tailored to your pet’s needs.
• Indoor Living for Cats: Consider keeping your cat indoors to reduce exposure to feral cats and wildlife.
• Supervised Outdoor Time for Dogs: When outside, ensure your dog is on a leash or in a secure, fenced area to prevent contact with wild or feral animals.
• Proper Identification: Ensure your pets have proper identification, such as collars with tags and microchips. This can help if they accidentally get outside or become lost.

In Conclusion

The recent case of rabies in a feral cat in Nassau County serves as an important reminder of the need for vaccination and safe practices around wild animals. At Oath Animal Hospital, we are committed to the health and well-being of your pets. If you have any questions or need to schedule a vaccination, please contact us.

Let’s work together to keep our pets and community safe!

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit us at Oath Animal Hospital or call us at 516-951-0254. Stay informed and keep your pets healthy!

JULY 2024

In the bustling world of veterinary medicine, finding the perfect fit can be akin to a puzzle with missing pieces. For me, the journey has been one of exploration, growth, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Four months into a busy year, three hospitals later, two medical record system overhauls, and one Dr. Funk to go between*. This is a threshold to a new chapter – one driving to redefine the landscape of pet care on Long Island and beyond.

Oath Animal Hospital is happy to be the new addition. Amidst the backdrop of Oath’s large, easy parking, beautiful waiting area with separate dog and cat seating, and a modern, state-of-the-art facility, a hospital like this needs more to have the community presence our team knows it can have. I am excited to announce I will only be seeing patients at Oath Animal Hospital from now on! The decision to exclusively practice here represents more than just a professional commitment – it’s a testament to a shared vision and unwavering dedication to the well-being of every pet patient that walks through our doors. I invite you to continue reading into the story behind this pivotal decision, the values that drive our Oath team, and the boundless potential that lies ahead for Oath Animal Hospital leading to limitless opportunities to give back to our community.

The team chemistry at Oath Animal Hospital has been unmistakable. There is teamwork between colleagues and bidirectional support as human beings. This has become the cultural foundation that Oath used to put down roots last year. In 2024, I am blessed to turn my full attention towards growing Oath in a way that allows clients and patients to experience The Oath Difference. In order to be a part of bringing Oath to the forefront of the veterinary community, I will no longer be seeing patients elsewhere. Instead, I am beyond thrilled to be seeing patients full-time at Oath Animal Hospital now!

By dedicating my full attention and expertise to this exceptional facility, I am confident that we will continue to provide outstanding care and service to our patients and their loving families. Together, with the unwavering support of our incredible team, we will uphold the values and principles that make Oath Animal Hospital truly special. Thank you for joining me on this journey and I look forward to many more years of serving this community and its pets with the highest standards of care. Here’s a bright future ahead at Oath Animal Hospital!

With gratitude and excitement,

Dr. Mike Funk
DVM, Medical Director, Owner

* Acknowledgements are necessary for all individuals who continue to support and cheer for Oath Animal Hospital. Thank you for your collegiality, wonderful ideas, positive input, motivation, and support. Oath Animal Hospital is a special place with a special future because of this collective effort!

MAY 2024

Hi Pet Parents!

We couldn’t wait to share the good news with you! The entire team is proud to announce that Oath Animal Hospital has been awarded the prestigious title of “Best Pet Hospital” on Long Island (2024) in its very first year of operation! This remarkable achievement is a testament to our personal goal of making a difference in your pets’ lives, protecting the human-animal bond you share, and giving back to our community! It’s been an incredible journey already and to win this honor in our first year of practice speaks volumes. We are deeply grateful for your support and value entrusting us with the care of your treasured pets.

Dr. Mike Funk was also voted “Best Veterinarian” on Long Island for the impressive 10^th time! To have been named “Best Veterinarian” for a decade worth of patient care is a monumental achievement. Rest assured that Dr. Funk knows there are always higher levels to unlock!

“I remain deeply appreciative of the trust placed in me to care for your cherished pets. My approach remains the same: approach every year of serving pets and pet parents with the mindset that trust has to be earned every year. This makes each award a truly special honor.” – Dr. Funk

The strong chemistry between Oath Animal Hospital and Dr. Funk has been undeniable, demonstrating how teamwork enhances patient outcomes and client services.

But wait, there’s more! We’ve been busy spreading love and care beyond the walls of our hospital. From attending community events like the Long Island Pet Expo to participating in educational sessions at local schools and senior communities, we’re dedicated to giving back and making a positive impact wherever we go.

Now, mark your calendars because we’re celebrating our one-year anniversary and you’re invited to join in on the fun! We will have hospital tours, meet-and-greets, freebies, swag, and refreshments! Please have fun at our pet photo booth with props or just come for the ice cream! New clients are welcome to a free Wellness Exam as well! Stay up-to-date with our monthly newsletter – call us to add you to our newsletter email list!

Please RSVP by May 8^th to secure your spot and ensure we have enough swag bags and goodies or all our guests. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

At Oath Animal Hospital, your pet’s well-being is our top priority. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re doing something special at Oath – it’s The Oath Difference. Together we’ll keep tails wagging and purrs strong!

With gratitude and excitement,

Dr. Mike Funk
DVM, Medical Director, Owner

MAY 2024

In the heart of Long Island, amidst the bustling communities & cherished pets, there’s a beacon of excellence in veterinary care: Dr. Mike Funk. In 2024 & for the tenth time, Dr. Funk has been honored with the prestigious title of “Best Veterinarian on Long Island.” This remarkable achievement not only highlights Dr. Funk’s unwavering commitment to animal welfare but also underscores the profound impact he has made within multiple communities.

Dr. Funk’s journey is marked by dedication, compassion, & expertise. With a passion for animals that ignited at a young age, he pursued his dream relentlessly, earning his veterinary degree & continually expanding his knowledge & skills in the field. His genuine love for animals shines through in every interaction, earning him the trust & security of pet owners across Long Island.

What makes this achievement in 2024 even more remarkable is the fact that Dr. Funk’s practice, Oath Animal Hospital, has only been open for less than a year. In its inaugural year, Oath Animal Hospital has already emerged as the epitome of excellence in pet care, winning the title of “Best Pet Hospital on Long Island.” This incredible feat speaks volumes about Dr. Funk’s vision, leadership, & the dedication of his team to providing top-notch veterinary services.

At Oath Animal Hospital, every furry friend is treated with the utmost care & attention. From routine check-ups to complex medical procedures, Dr. Funk & his team go above & beyond to ensure the health & well-being of their patients. Their state-of-the-art facility, coupled with a compassionate approach to veterinary medicine, have set a new standard for pet care in the region.

But Dr. Funk’s impact extends beyond the walls of this practices. He is actively involved in community outreach programs, promoting responsible pet ownership & advocating for animal welfare initiatives. Whether it’s offering free clinics for the local SPCA, participating in educational seminars, or lending a helping hand to island-wide animal shelters, Dr. Funk is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of animals & their human companions.

Receiving the title of “Best Veterinarian on Long Island” for the tenth time is a testament to Dr. Mike Funk’s unwavering commitment to excellence in veterinary care. It is a recognition of his tireless efforts, his passion for animals, & his profound impact within communities he serves. As one of Long Island’s beloved veterinarians, Dr. Funk continues to inspire & uplift both pets & their owners, ensuring that every furry friend receives the care, attention, & compassion they deserve. Cheers to Dr. Mike Funk & the entire team at Oath Animal Hospital for their outstanding achievement & dedication to the well-being of animals.

FEBRUARY 2024

You’re Having A Baby!

You’ve had fur babies forever but this is a “human” baby! “What can I do to make sure both baby & dog enjoy each others company?” Believe it or not, your dog probably already knew you were pregnant. They too, are baby-makers & sense the changes in & around you. For a smooth transition, focus on (i) familiarizing your dog with the expected new addition, (ii) keep dogs’ minds at peace so they know they have nothing of which to be jealous & (iii) take your pets to your veterinarian. There are going to be plenty of things about having a baby to stress you out – don’t let this be one of them! Let’s look at what can be done before your baby arrives so you have more time to take those once-in-a-lifetime pictures, capturing those special moments shared between both your babies.

Familiarize To The “New”

If your dog hasn’t had many interactions with babies, it’s a good idea to get them familiar with the newIf your dog hasn’t had many interactions with babies, it’s a good idea to get them familiar with the new sights,, sounds, and , and smells that will be a part of their lives just as much as they will be part of yours. Create a positive association with furniture by letting dogs sniff new baby items & then offer them a treat you know they like. The same goes for infant swings, toys, & baby mats. Doing so helps dogs make the connection that these foreign objects are nothing to fear but rather something that gets them a reward! You can substitute the treats for toys or praise if either holds higher value for your particular pooch. Spend time in the nursery once it’s prepared. Spend time on your tablet or read for leisure. Your pets will grow to know it’s just another room you spend time in. It’s all about helping your pets ease into the “new normal.”

The same goes for sounds – get your dogs ( & yourself ) used to common baby sounds by placing a mobile device in the crib to play baby crying, laughing, & cooing. Remember to pair the new sounds with a treat, toy, or praise. Invite friends to bring over their young children to help your pets get used to having an infant, or small children, in the home. It also gives you the opportunity to see how your pet reacts to babies – just be sure to monitor them closely!

Your dog relies on their sense of smell for a lot – this includes picking up the scent of all the new baby things they see. Don’t forget to let them sniff diapers, powders, baby oils, & lotions. Key tip: nothing is as authentic as bringing the blanket & hat home in the car seat. Carry the car seat into the house with you, put it down and let your dog sniff and investigate the new smells of the blanket/hat in the car seat. Then move the blanket/hat to other areas where the baby will be spending time & making noises like the bassinet & crib. There is less chance your dog will be bothered by the change if they already accepted the changes you’ve gradually been making.

Months before the baby arrives, begin varying feeding schedules & exercise times to make your dog more flexible. For example, begin to slowly shorten walk length, walk frequency & move the times you feed them an hour earlier or later. You don’t have to start paying less attention to your dog either, but if your dog follows you like velcro don’t be afraid to start behaving more independently so your dog can develop a little independence, too. Doggie daycare can be an option for dogs who need a place to burn off cooped up energy. Keep in mind the physical demands of pregnancy over the months may have already helped your dog get used to less attention.

Eliminating Jealousy

Dogs are usually fine with a little more independence. It may be tempting to spend as much time with them as you can before the baby arrives but it’s easier on them if you gradually reduce the doggie doting. Your partner can also help by forming a stronger bond with your dog. Not only does this redistribute the attention a bit, but it also can help establish another person your dog feels comfortable going to for needs like food & walks – making them less reliant on only you.

Don’t feel guilty about shifting your attention – there are still activities you can share once the baby is born! Take the baby & dog for a walk in nice weather. Walking is a bonding experience for dogs & provides exercise, fresh air, & sunshine. Also set aside some individual time for your pets – they will understand you still love them & that they just have to be a little more patient to get that special attention.

Vet Care

It is very important, for your baby, to make sure your pets are seen by your veterinarian – they need to be properly dewormed, up to date on shots, & thoroughly examined to make sure there are no health issues. Pets can carry & spread intestinal parasites without obvious outward signs. If I am your veterinarian, you have heard me talk about leptospirosis, rabies, & other pet infections we need to be concerned about because people can catch them, too. Pets who may have underlying medical conditions can also exhibit behavior that isn’t “their normal.” My goal is to help protect your baby by helping protect your pets, making sure they are as healthy as can be. It’s also the perfect time to address any animal behavior concerns since my focus is to start your baby’s human-animal bond off on the right foot!

It is also important to ask any questions you have about your pets recent behavior & address any concerns about past behavior. Recognizing & acting quickly makes the behavior easier to correct & less stressful for both pet & parent. Your veterinarian can help you with any issues & also connect you to a trainer if recommended. This highlights the importance of practicing basic commands like sit, stay, & leave it (or, drop it). Commands are not only useful for the face-value action you want from your pet, but they can also be used in so many other ways. For example, teaching your dog to sit or “place” on a designated area does the same thing as teaching them not to jump on the crib or into your lap without permission. Kitty Tip: aluminum foil or double-sided tape on the crib & changing table helps train cats not to jump up.

Remember to frequently massage your pet’s feet, ears, & tail. Much like yours, your dog’s sleep schedule may also be interrupted by a newborn & if lack of sleep can make you cranky, we can bet it can make your dog cranky, too! Your tired dog may have a shorter fuse for the exploring hands of babies that like to grab dog’s feet, ears, & tail if they haven’t been desensitized to it beforehand.

You Had The Baby!

Congratulations! … “now what?!” Welcoming your baby home is a special moment. There will be a lot of excitement & possibly a lot of fanfare with a lot of people. This is an opportunity for your dog to meet his or her little sibling but you should do it in a very specific way. Dogs can be territorial but you don’t necessarily need to introduce them outside the home. Don’t let your dog jump on you as you walk through the door – it is helpful if your dog is crate trained. Wait to introduce the baby to the dog when everyone is calm, quiet, & settled to create a less stimulating or stressful experience.

Don’t forget family building experiences your dog can understand. Besides the bonding exercise of going for a stroller walk with your baby & dog, eat your meals together. Since dogs can sense inequity, give your dog a treat or toy when your baby gets something new. All these things help reinforce that there is no need for your dog to develop any jealous feelings.

By this point, you are doing a lot of work with your dog to accept & respect your baby. The same is true that your baby should learn how to accept & respect your dog. Work with your baby to teach the proper way to pet & handle your dog & your dog’s belongings. Doing both helps produce a home filled with love, peace, & serenity!

Remember

It’s OK to spend more time on baby & a little less on doggie. If you’ve taken the time to do the things above (or in the checklist below), it’s just an adjustment & most dogs will do just fine. By setting some ground rules for both dogs & babies, you’re on your way to creating another unique human-animal bond between your child & dog. Even though it may take some time to adjust, remember to relax & have faith that everything will work out fine. Now go & create memorable experiences that involve everyone. Enjoy It’s OK to spend more time on baby & a little less on doggie. If you’ve taken the time to do the things above (or in the checklist below), it’s just an adjustment & most dogs will do just fine. By setting some ground rules for both dogs & babies, you’re on your way to creating another unique human-animal bond between your child & dog. Even though it may take some time to adjust, remember to relax & have faith that everything will work out fine. Now go & create memorable experiences that involve everyone. Enjoy all the babies in your life – your new ones, your furry ones, & the growing family you’ve become.

This is a topic I aspired to write about for quite some time. No time like the present when you’re expecting the first of your very own this July 2019!

Thank you for reading my article on how to make family adjustments when a baby is on the way. I hope you found it helpful & informative. Please comment & let me know what you think!

Checklist

1. Familiarize to sights, sounds, smells, & flexible schedules
2. Reduce feelings of jealousy by redistributing attention, giving rewards when giving something to baby, sharing activities, & saving some individual time for just you & your pets
3. See your veterinarian soon, consult a trainer if recommended, & anticipate making boarding reservations if needed
4. Desensitize your dog by frequently massaging their feet, ears, & tail
5. Remember to teach your baby how to respect your dog & your dog’s belongings, too
6. Never leave your child and pets unsupervised

Resources

1. Wooten, Sarah. “Preparing for a kiddo… when you have a doggo.” DVM360. 2018 May 16.
2. Walters, Erin. “How to Prepare Your Pets for Baby’s Arrival.” The Bump. 2019 April 21.
3. Fox, Paul. “This is What Happens When Babies And Dogs Meet For The First Time.” Honest to Paws. 2019 April 26.

FEBRUARY 2024

As I approach the end of our first year in operation, I find myself reflecting on the moments that shaped our journey together. It’s been a year filled with firsts – triumphs, challenges, & most importantly, the privilege of caring for your pets. As we say goodbye to 2023, I want to express my gratitude for entrusting us with the health & well-being of your cherished family members.

Celebrating Milestones

This year was marked by significant milestones for Oath Animal Hospital. We signified our arrival in the community & Long Island, at large, by raising our sign in March. & proudly celebrated our Grand Opening in May. We continue to ramp up & attribute this success to the support you’ve placed in us. Your trust motivates us to provide the best veterinary care possible. We achieved AAHA Accreditation for meeting special standards of veterinary care & facility capabilities. Only 1 of 8 hospitals achieves this distinction.

Community Outreach

We actively engaged our community within & beyond the walls of Oath Animal Hospital. Our team presented educational initiatives at schools (Our Lady of Guadalupe). We shared insights on responsible pet ownership, preventive care, & the importance of regular veterinary check-ups with our presence at the Long Island Pet Expo & Fall Festival, & ran in the 5K “Girls on the Run.”

We offered pics with Santa, held food drives (Long Island Cares), & provided Oath gift baskets for charity events (Little Shelter, John Theissen, Nassau Cnty SPCA). We also held a Nassau County SPCA spay/neuter day. Oath Animal Hospital was proud to host a Microchip Clinic as well as Brie-Bear’s Bear Repair to collect 162 stuffed animals for sick children while repairing the cherished stuffies of our client’s children. We raised $1000.00 for one lucky animal rescue by starting a charity fantasy football league, affectionately named, Dr. Funk’s Fantasy Football Invitational or, “The Triple-F.I!”

Our mission will keep us present in the community because we believe that a well-informed community is a key partner in promoting the health & happiness of our pets. Your pet’s best health is a team effort!

Gratitude and Acknowledgment
Lastly, as we close out this year, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our clients, both two-legged & four-legged. Your trust & loyalty inspire us daily. We are honored to be part of the stories that make your pets’ lives extraordinary. The coming year promises continued growth, innovation, & most importantly, the joy of serving you & your pets. We are excited to show you all that we have in store for you to materialize in the year ahead. I look forward to strengthening our bond with each member of the Oath Animal Hospital community.

We wish you & your furry friends a great start to your new year!

Warm Regards,

Dr. Mike Funk
DVM, Medical Director, Owner

JANUARY 2024

The winter holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, amidst the festive decorations and cheerful gatherings, it’s crucial for pet owners to be aware of potential dangers that can lurk in the tinsel-draped corners of our homes. Here are a few of the common hazards of tinsel, ribbon, electrocution, strangulation, and hypothermia, providing insights on how to keep our pets safe during this peaceful time of year.

Tinsel Trouble

Tinsel, with its sparkling allure, can turn a Christmas tree into a mesmerizing playground for our feline and canine companions. However, what may seem like harmless fun can quickly take a serious turn. Cats, in particular, are notorious for batting at and chewing on these decorative strands. Unfortunately, if ingested, tinsel can wreak havoc on a pet’s digestive system.

The thin, flexible nature of tinsel can allow it to easily wind around the intestines, creating a potentially life-threatening obstruction. Symptoms of tinsel ingestion include vomiting, lethargy, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the obstruction.

To safeguard your pet, consider alternatives such as pet-friendly decorations or place ornaments out of their reach. Additionally, closely monitor your pet’s interactions with the tree and promptly address any signs of interest in tinsel.

Ribbon Woes

The colorful curls of ribbon may add a festive touch to gifts and decorations, but these seemingly innocent adornments can pose significant risks to our pets. Cats, known for their love of batting at dangling objects, may be particularly drawn to ribbons. However, if ingested, ribbon can lead to choking or, more critically, gastrointestinal obstruction.

To mitigate the risks, secure ribbons tightly on gifts and avoid leaving loose ends that pets might find tempting. Consider using cloth ribbons instead of the shiny, metallic varieties, as they are less likely to cause harm if ingested. Always supervise your pets when ribbons are present, and promptly discard any small, chewable pieces.

Electrocution Risks

Holiday lights and electrical decorations can transform our homes into winter wonderlands, but the cords that power these displays can pose a serious threat to curious pets. Dogs and cats may be enticed to chew on wires, leading to electric shocks, burns, or even fires.

To minimize the risk of electrocution, ensure that all cords are securely fastened and hidden from your pet’s reach. Consider using pet-proof covers for electrical outlets and investing in cord management systems to keep wires organized and out of sight. If you notice any signs of chewing or fraying, promptly replace damaged cords to prevent potential hazards.

Strangulation Dangers

Decorations like stockings, garlands, and hanging ornaments contribute to the festive atmosphere, but they can also pose a strangulation risk for pets, especially cats. Cats, with their innate curiosity and love of climbing, may inadvertently become entangled in hanging decorations, leading to serious injuries or even fatalities.

Be mindful of where you place these decorations, keeping them well out of your pet’s reach. Avoid hanging decorations in areas where your pet likes to explore, and secure decorations securely to prevent accidental entanglements. Supervise your pets closely when they are around festive displays, and intervene immediately if you notice any signs of distress or entanglement.

Hypothermia Awareness

While many holiday celebrations take place indoors, winter also brings opportunities for outdoor activities with our pets. However, exposure to cold temperatures can pose risks of hypothermia, especially for smaller or short-haired breeds.

When venturing outdoors, keep outings brief, and be mindful of your pet’s tolerance to the cold. Dress them in warm, weather-appropriate layers, including sweaters or jackets for added insulation. Provide sheltered spaces where your pets can retreat from the cold, and avoid extended exposure to harsh weather conditions.

Monitor your pets for signs of hypothermia, including shivering, lethargy, disorientation, and cold extremities. If you suspect your pet is experiencing hypothermia, seek veterinary attention promptly.

While the winter holiday season is a time of warmth and joy, it’s essential for pet owners to be vigilant about potential hazards that can arise in the festive decorations and activities. By staying informed and taking preventive measures, we can create a safe and enjoyable environment for our furry family members. This season, let’s ensure that our pets are not just part of the celebration but are also protected from potential holiday hazards. Keep the holidays peaceful and magical.

DECEMBER 2023