Maintaining your pets’ health and well-being is of the utmost importance for their overall wellbeing. This involves providing them with food, exercise, grooming, and regular veterinary visits.
Older pets are especially vulnerable to developing health issues. Regular checkups and screenings allow vets to detect these problems early, when they may require more specialized treatment or even hospitalization.
Feeding
When it comes to feeding your pets, there are a few steps you can take to guarantee they get the best nutritional value for their money. For instance, avoid giving them table scraps as these tend to not be beneficial for dogs and cats and could lead to obesity or begging behavior.
Additionally, it is best to avoid giving your pet milk as it contains high fat levels and may lead to pancreatitis. Furthermore, many small animals are lactose intolerant; giving them a glass of milk could prove problematic for them.
No precise amount of treats should ever be given to your animal, but it’s generally accepted that treats shouldn’t exceed 5% of their overall diet. Treats are an excellent way to show your pet that you care and build a bond with them but don’t go overboard as this could become an unhealthy habit for them.
Treat your furry friends to some nutritious treats such as Cheerios, low-sodium peanut butter, and whole-grain rice. You could also offer them some fresh produce like fruit or veggies from the garden!
One of the most promising trends in pet food is the rise of more natural, whole ingredients. These can include fruits, vegetables, legumes, and other dietary components of human origin that are better suited for small pets. As this industry matures, Veterinary Nutritionists are witnessing more pet parents using these natural-based components to improve their companion’s overall well-being.
Exercise
Exercising your pet is one of the best ways to keep them healthy and contented. Not only will it build their muscles, improve heart health and lower their vulnerability to various medical issues, but it can also reduce risks for various illnesses.
Exercise for your pet has numerous benefits, from improving their mental health to deterring destructive behavior. Not only that, but exercise makes them feel more relaxed and eager to join you on walks or plays with you.
Exercise on a daily basis not only makes your dog more hungry, but it can also prevent them from being picky eaters and lead to obesity. Exercising also has other beneficial effects for your pup such as increased muscle mass and bone density, reduced pain, inflammation, and stiffness.
As your pet ages, they may need to adjust their daily exercise regimen in order to reduce the strain on their sore joints and stiff muscles. This could involve switching up games like fetch or chasing a feather wand from high-impact activities that could be more detrimental for an aging body.
Dental Care
Dental care is often neglected in veterinary services, yet it’s essential for your pet’s well-being. Brushing their teeth not only keeps them fresh breath, but it may also help them avoid other health issues like heart and kidney failure.
Preventing dental disease starts with regular examinations and professional cleanings for your pet. Our veterinarians check for loose teeth, red gums, mouth sores, and other signs of oral infection during a dental exam.
Our veterinarian team may also recommend a yearly dental cleaning, which eliminates plaque and tartar buildup on teeth and mouth. All dental cleanings are done under anesthesia to make them safe and painless for your pet.
At a dental cleaning, your pet’s teeth are scaled (tartar removed), cleaned ultrasonically, and polished. Furthermore, dental X-rays are taken to identify any areas that might need additional attention.
Your pet’s teeth can be gently brushed with a special pet toothbrush and toothpaste that are meant to be swallowed. Many veterinary hospitals provide various dental products designed to promote good dental health.
Vaccinations
Vaccinating your pet is an integral part of providing them with essential health care. Not only do these shots protect them from serious illnesses, but they can save you money in the long run on vet bills.
No matter if your pet is a cat, dog, or rabbit, they need vaccinations to stay healthy and prevent certain illnesses. Vaccinations help strengthen their immune system and build protective antibodies against various diseases.
Puppies and kittens should begin receiving vaccinations around six weeks old since their immune systems are still developing and they cannot get antibodies from mother’s milk. After weaning them from nursing, booster shots will be administered every month or two until they become fully protected.
Core vaccines include rabies shot, parvovirus, distemper, and hepatitis. Your vet may suggest additional vaccines based on your pet’s risk factors.
Your veterinarian will administer vaccinations to your pet according to their age, weight, and how often they’ve been exposed to other animals. We’ll also take into account any boarding or grooming facilities your pet attends, training classes they might attend, or outdoor activities they might engage in.
Thankfully, most pets experience only mild side effects after receiving vaccinations. They may experience fever, pain in the injection site, lethargy or coughing.
Health Care
Pets require regular health care in order to remain healthy. This includes vaccinations, regular check-ups, and dental care as well as making sure they get enough food and exercise, as well as taking their medications on schedule.
In addition to regular health care for pets, they should receive plenty of affection as well. Doing this will help foster the bond between you and your furry friend while also keeping them contented and contented.
Once you start to notice changes in your pet’s health, it is essential to take them in for a checkup and screening. This will give your veterinarian the chance to diagnose and address any issues before they become major problems.
It is especially crucial for older pets, who may be more prone to health issues. With early detection from a veterinarian, owners can ensure their furry friend enjoys an improved quality of life as they age.
At least once every six months, senior dogs or cats should receive a routine veterinary visit from your veterinarian to monitor their health more closely and detect any early signs of diseases before they become serious issues.
Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect your pet against diseases. Be sure to adhere to all recommended vaccine schedules and consult with your veterinarian about which vaccinations are suitable for your pup.