How to Keep Your Pet Happy and Healthy Top 10 Ways
From proper nutrition and preventative medications to
grooming and mental stimulation, these tips will keep your dog or cat in tiptop
shape.
1. Proper nutrition.
Feeding your pet the right amount
and type of food helps him maintain a healthy weight, which is one of the best
ways to prevent obesity-related illnesses and extend his lifespan. Pets can
usually meet their nutritional needs from a balanced diet of quality food, but
check with your veterinarian to see if he needs any supplements. Also be sure
your pet gets enough fresh water, and keep an eye on the amount of treats you
give him; most veterinarians suggest they should make up no more than 10% of
your pet’s daily calories. Find a vet to reach out to for consultation.
2. Exercise.
Regular walks, hiking, playing fetch and
swimming can keep your pet physically active and fit. But don’t forget about
mental stimulation! Providing toys to play with, hiding treats, building
obstacle courses and practicing new tricks all keep your dog or cat interested
and engaged. You can also change up your walking routine to expose your pet to
new scenery and smells.
3. Regular checkups.
An annual wellness exam provides
the best opportunity for your veterinarian to perform a variety of health
screens that can lead to early detection of diseases and to spot warning signs
of serious illness. Yearly dental appointments may also be recommended to
remove plaque and tartar buildup.
4. Preventative medications.
Taking preventative
measures go hand in hand with regular veterinarian checkups. Preventative
medications can keep your pet free of unwanted health issues, like heartworm,
flea-related diseases and tick-borne illnesses. In addition, regularly brushing
your pet’s teeth and giving him dental chews help prevent periodontal disease,
which can lead to more serious health problems.
5. Grooming.
This involves keeping your pet’s nails
trimmed, brushing him a couple times a week and giving him regular baths.
Grooming is also a good way to keep an eye on changes in your pet’s fur or
skin, like dandruff, bald patches or dry skin. And it’s an ideal time to check
for lumps and bumps that may be cause for concern. Check with your veterinarian
for the best grooming protocol for your particular pet.
6. Affection.
Establishing a strong bond with your dog
or cat is good for both of you. Cuddles, petting, belly rubs and even brushing
his coat are great ways to show your pet some love. Not only does this
strengthen the emotional connection with your pet, but it promotes your pet
having positive interactions with other animals and humans.
7. Socialization.
According to the American Animal
Hospital Association, “Early socialization [in dogs] and appropriate exposure
to various people and situations at a young age decreases the odds of
antisocial or fearfully aggressive behaviors as an adult.” A puppy’s or
kitten’s formative years — from a few weeks old to about 16-18 weeks — is the
most critical period for socialization. So be sure they get enough people and
animal interaction, not just in the early months but throughout their life. A
few options include visiting family and friends, taking a trip to the dog park,
going for a walk around the neighborhood or letting your pet spend an afternoon
at daycare after they’ve received the all clear from your vet.
8. Spay/neuter.
Getting your pet fixed has several
benefits. It can prevent some cancers and diseases, extend your pet’s life
expectancy and cut down on aggressive behavior in males. For females, it can
prevent them from going into heat and reduce unwanted behaviors associated with
their cycle, such as irritability, yowling and spraying urine.
9. Know what’s “normal.” Has your pet’s behavior changed recently?
Is he scratching more than usual? Is he eating more or less
than he normally does? Changes from the norm could be cause for concern and
indicate an underlying issue. If you notice abnormal behavior in your dog or
cat, give your vet a call to see if an exam is necessary.
10. Pet safety.
There are several ways to keep your
pet safe: collars with ID tags, microchips, making sure your home is free of
safety hazards and putting toxic substances out of reach. Along with the other
tips above, you’ll be able to keep your furry friend happy, healthy and with
you for many years to come!