It’s always nice to have extra time to spend with your pets. After all, most of us are so busy that we have to make time for our pets -and ourselves- to simply relax and enjoy the moment. However, there are times when life slows down a bit and we can take time to sit back and enjoy hanging out with our pets.
But now that you have the time to just hang out with your pet(s) what are some things you should do? After all, one can only walk to so much each day! Here are some ways to ensure that your downtime with your pets is time well spent – for both you and your family’s fur babies.
7 Ways to Keep Your Pet(s) Happy and Healthy
- Depending on where you live, there may be more wildlife moving around. Be sure to keep your dog on a leash when walking in parks as you don’t want them to ‘stumble’ upon a skunk or porcupine. Have a cat that doesn’t respond well to a leash? Consider getting a stroller that can be zipped shut but still has a mesh or screened opening.
- Pay attention to debris. You don’t want your pets sniffing around something that could be harmful. After all, germs are everywhere!
- Lyme disease is real and can be a serious problem for your pets (and you!). Be sure they have the proper collars on. Then take time to inspect their coats for those pesky parasites when you return home.
- Just because you have more time to cook, it doesn’t mean now is a good time to introduce people-food or even a significant amount of new pet foods into their diets. Giving your dogs or cats food they are not accustomed to can cause stomach/digestion issues. Big food no-no’s are grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and chocolate.
- Be sure your pet is up to date on their vaccinations! Not sure? Contact your vet. Being sure your pet is up to date on their shots can, in turn, help protect you as well.
- If you plan on planting a garden or introducing houseplants to your space, be sure to only have ones that are pet-friendly and safe. There are several plants that can cause illnesses in pets.
- Take time to go the extra mile – activities like brushing their hair, extra-time spent playing with them, or just cuddling is healthy for you and your pet. So why not indulge yourself – and them!
Keeping your family’s four-legged members happy and healthy doesn’t have to be difficult. It is just a matter of thinking and planning ahead and then being sure to have the supplies available. Talk to your veterinarian, an experienced pet sitter, or even just someone who has had pets for a long time, and learn all you can about how to make your time with Fluffy and Fido as wonderful as it can be!
