What pet owner wouldn’t want to maximize the time they have with their beloved animal companion? Use these five tips, as discussed by your Floyds Knob, IN vet, to keep your furry friend around for as long as possible.
Veterinary Visits
The importance of regular veterinary visits cannot be stressed enough. They allow your veterinarian to catch any health problems early, before they’re allowed to develop into major medical issues. Office visits also let your vet keep you updated on the latest pet-care techniques and insights. Most veterinarians recommend that they see pets at least twice a year, so set up an appointment today.
Preventative Medicine
Vaccinations and preventative pest medications are two of the best ways to keep your pet healthy throughout their lifetime. Vaccinations protect against worrisome and costly disease, and pest medications avoid the hassles of infestations and infections. If your pet needs vaccines, booster shots on the vaccines they already have, or preventative medications against fleas, ticks, or parasites, call your vet.
Quality Diet
Feeding your pet an age-appropriate, well-balanced diet throughout their lifetime is key to maintaining good health over the years. Ask your veterinarian to recommend a premium cat or dog food for your pet, and see if specially formulated diets for specific health benefits would be useful. Also be sure to ask about proper portion sizes and scheduled mealtimes.
Regular Exercise
Every pet needs their exercise to stay healthy. Obesity is one of the leading causes of health issues amongst today’s domestic pet population; avoid it with regular exercise, coupled with a great diet. Take your pet on walks, romp around on the living room floor, or play fetch the backyard. However you accomplish it, be sure to get your pet moving for several minutes at a time, at least once per day.
Dental Health
Dental health is an often-overlooked aspect of pet care, and oral issues are some of the most commonly diagnosed medical problems in pets as a result. Don’t let your pet fall victim to the dangers of dental issues—check the teeth and gums regularly, brush your pet’s teeth with a canine- or feline-formulated toothpaste, and provide your pet with good chew toys to help scrape off excess plaque before it can harden into tartar.
Your Floyds Knob, IN veterinarian is here to answer any further questions you have about your pet’s health and well-being. Call the clinic today!
