Have you ever perceived the proverb ‘you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? Don’t let that folktale discourage you. Sometimes, changing a routine, especially a pet’s, can seem impossible when you’ve been following it for a while.
Sometimes, small mistakes—like not taking your dog for a daily walk—can become the new rule. Over time, you and your pet get used to this unhealthy life routine, but things can improve.
Here are six healthy pet behaviours to keep your pet happy and healthy.
Regular Vet Visits
Maintaining a relationship with a local primary care veterinarian is crucial, visiting every 6-12 months, depending on the pet’s type and healthcare requirements. Your family veterinarian will provide regular wellness exams, vaccinations, dental cleanings, and x-rays and become familiar with your pet’s behaviour.
Your family veterinarian is a source of information – especially vital if your pet has health issues, constant pain, or a chronic disease. Your family veterinarian can recommend reputable hospitals and specialists for emergency vet care or speciality services for your pet.
Slowly Phase Out Unhealthy Treats
Treats are the best method to get your dog’s attention when you need them to accomplish a specific task. They are great rewards for finishing those tasks. However, some may get too excited about the treats.
Those huge puppy eyes can sometimes grow the better of us, and you may overindulge in your pets. While occasional treats are good, overdoing them can harm your pet’s health.
Going on, not all treat was made equally. If you must indulge your pet, you can care for their health by choosing treats that are healthier. Carrots, green beans, peas, and other vegetables or low-calorie sweets are better choices. Biscuits and protein-heavy treats can be reserved for exceptional events.
You can also talk with your vet about this, and they can suggest healthier treatment options. A word of guidance: You may notice your pet refusing these treats primarily because they are drastically lower in sodium and sugar. However, over time, they’ll learn to love and anticipate them! All you need to do is keep it up.
Keep Up with Vaccinations
One of the finest ways you can shield your pet from illness is with vaccines. Some diseases you can prevent through pet vaccinations are:
- Bordetella
- Distemper
- Heartworms
- Intestinal worms
- Leptospirosis
- Lyme disease
- Parvovirus
- Rabies
Some vaccines are essential depending on where you live. Your vet may suggest an additional one based on your pet’s danger of numerous diseases. To provide the best protection, follow the pet vaccination regimen. Every several years, some vaccines may require booster shots.
Exercise Your Pets
Regular exercise and a nutritious diet are essential for your dog or cat. They help your pet stay fit and robust and enhance its mood. Your pet’s activity level depends on size, age, breed, and general health. There is a broad guideline that you can apply.
- Dogs should spend 30 minutes to two hours on exercise daily.
- Cats should enjoy two play sessions every day for 10 to 15 minutes.
Groom Your Pets
Whether you employ professional or at-home grooming, grooming helps keep your pet healthy by keeping their nails clipped and their furs good. It is also an admirable method to watch for changes in your pet’s coat or skin, like dandruff, bald patches, dry skin, or pests. And it’s a perfect moment to look for lumps and bumps that may cause worry.