Your pet, whether it is a dog, cat, bird, or reptile, is an important part of your life. Many people even consider pets as part of the family, and rightfully so! Just like any other living and breathing thing, pets need to stay healthy in order to have the most comfortable life possible living in your home. Chances are that you have already taken the necessary precautions to make sure your pet is healthy and strong, which is already a great start. However, just to be sure that your pet is getting the adequate care it deserves, consider the following points when checking up on your furry little friend.
Visiting the Vet Annually
Just like you or your children should get a wellness checkup once a year, your pet should be checked up at the vet on an annual basis, even if they appear extremely healthy. You vet will often spot any necessary treatments to maintain your pet’s health, like an update on vaccines or giving some dental care for their teeth. Your veterinarian will also be able to help you know if there are any other additional medications you should be giving your pet to improve their health as well.
Heartworm and Fleas
Heartworms and fleas are common in pets with fur. Even if your pet stays indoors their whole life they could run the risk of having heartworm or fleas. The best way for your pets to avoid getting either of these conditions is to simply prevent them from getting them. The typical method is by giving your pets a year-round medication to help prevent heartworm or fleas. Additionally, there are special soaps, collars, and foods you can give your pet that will help them stay away from either of these conditions.
Other Checkups
Be sure to stay up to date on the health of your pet’s eyes and mouth. As long as your pet is eating healthy foods that are designed to keep your pet’s teeth in good condition, then you will likely never need to worry about their oral care. However, it is always safe to check their mouth and their teeth for any possible conditions that may not be apparent. Additionally, it is important to check for any eye discharge on your pet. Whether it is a green discharge from dog’s eye or a clear discharge from cat’s eye, it is important to have it checked by your pet’s veterinarian to make sure there are no medical problems with your pet.
Spay or Neuter
It is important to help extend the life expectancy of your pet as well as help prevent the overpopulation of dogs and cats in the world. Most of all, spaying or neutering your pet will also help prevent unwanted litters, which can cause unnecessary challenges in your home and with your pet. Most pets that come from adoption centers have already been spayed or neutered, but if you adopted your pet from off the street then it is important to take it to the vet in order to go with this affordable procedure.
Bathing and Entertainment
Healthy animals do not require a bath very often, while older pets may need a bath monthly or weekly. Whether your pet is old or young, it is important to give them a bath every so often in order to make sure their fur is healthy and their skin is getting the best sanitation possible. Keeping your pet entertained and happy is also just as important as keeping them clean and fresh. Be sure to get the proper toys to help keep your pet entertained. Your pet may not need much to be entertained, but keeping them active is another way to keep them healthy.
Your pet is an important part of your home, so it is vital to help them stay healthy and happy while they are in your life. Ensure that your pet is healthy and safe, especially by going about the suggestions above.
