It seems there is always news about an approach to staying healthy. Be it getting more of a particular type of exercise, increasing how much you eat of a specific type of food or food group, or encouraging more or less time for sleep or leisure -there’s always something to improve. When it comes to having a healthy pet, the action items stay a bit consistent, but it never hurts to be sure you are doing all you can to protect the health of your beloved furbabies.
9 Things You Can Do to Keep Your Pet Healthy
Being sure your pet has proper nutrition and taking preventative action can go a long way to your pet having a healthy and happy life.
- Be Active – Going on walks, hiking, running and swimming are great ways for your pet to get exercise – and us, too! But beyond these activities, don’t forget to keep them actively engage mentally as well. Make time to teach your pets new skills, play a game of tug-o-war or fetch, pick up some new toys, etc. so that they can be active both mentally and physically.
- Be Proactive – Be sure your pet is safe with identification options like microchipping and collaring to help them be returned in the event you get separated from your pet. You can also be proactive by keeping your home free of items/toxic substances that can harm your pets.
- Bonding – People and animals both need affection! Cuddling, petting, playing and just chilling out next to your pet is not only healthy for your furbaby’s emotional health but can improve yours as well. Better yet, when you spend time bonding with your pet, it teaches them how to have positive interactions with other people.
- Checkups – Most of us don’t enjoy going to the doctors, and chances are your furbaby isn’t any different. However, they still need to go for regular checkups. By having yearly health screenings, you can be aware of any potential health concerns and have a better chance of them beating or avoiding a serious health problem.
- Grooming – Keeping your pet’s nails trimmed, bathing them, brushing their coat, taking time to gently massage them and checking for any unusual bumps is important. Your pet will feel better with clean fur and you will know sooner versus later if there is a health concern.
- Mouth Disease – Be sure your pet is getting the oral health care they need. Failing to do so can cause your pet to quit eating, and can even lead to heart and kidney problems. Talk to your vet about product design for your pet’s dental needs.
- Nutrition – Being sure your pet eats the correct amounts of food, as well as food that is perfect for his/her breed and lifestyle, is a must. Sadly, obesity is not just something that affects people, it is unhealthy for our pets, too. Talk to your vet to learn if there are any supplements or a specific type of food that can help your pet be healthier. Also, be sure that your pet gets enough water, and minimize the number of treats you give him.
- Social Life – It has been found that the earlier young pets are introduced to new people and animals the less likely the risk of aggressive behavior is. The prime age for this type of interaction is from birth to around 18 weeks as this is when most pets are forming their view of the world.
- Spay/Neuter – This can extend your pet’s life expectancy, reduces the risk of disease, can prevent some forms of cancer, -in males- minimize aggressiveness and in females help reduce unwanted behavior such as irritability, yowling and spraying urine.
These 9 actions can make a big difference in your pet’s health. Make time to implement them. Your pet is worth it!
