Keeping your household pets fit and healthy

Your pets are members of your family, so you no doubt want to keep them as fit and healthy as possible. Here are some tips for making sure the animals you love remain in top condition.IMG_20141125_074436

Be aware of the special needs of your breed

Understanding the characteristics, health traits, grooming and physical needs of your pet is essential to assure them a healthy life. You would have to know about the breed and understand your dog or cat as an individual pet. Certain breeds may need special care, while others are relatively hassle-free to take care of. Their size is also a factor to consider. Smaller dog breeds like the havapoo, Miniature Schnauzers, and Shi Tzus are rather easy to take care of simply because of their small size. But larger breeds like the Cane Corso, American Bullies, English Mastiffs and others require more attention as they’re much larger and tend to be more active.

It is important to note that all dogs and cats are the same. Breed-specific issues are something that you need to be aware of. Long-haired animals will need regular brushing or even haircuts during the hotter times of the year. Some breeds are not supposed to have regular haircuts. As well as haircuts, some dog breeds are prone to have orthopaedic problems, such as German Shepherds so you may want to make sure that you cater to their needs by buying them an orthopaedic bed, from somewhere like Animals Matter (https://animalsmatter.com/collections/orthopedic-beds) to ensure that they are as comfortable as possible. By knowing any needs that your breed has, you are able to care for them in the way they should be cared for.

Train your dog

Training your dog could greatly benefit you and your dog. But what makes it so important is that it could avoid potential behavioural problems, keep them in good mental and physical shape, and it could help you communicate with him/her better. Having a professional Dog Trainer Southampton (or from elsewhere) train your dog could teach them certain mannerisms, dos and don’ts, and make him/her more obedient overall. Obedience can play a major role in the physical fitness of a dog. This is because it should obey you when you command him/her to come out to walk, exercise or play. Else, it could become stubborn which leads to disobedience and laziness, and the worst-case scenario being violent.

Avoid overfeeding

Table scraps and too many treats can lead to overweight pets. Just like people, when pets become overweight, they can experience related health issues. While giving treats might make them very happy, you could be decreasing their life span. A good-quality pet food and occasional treats made for them will ensure that they have a better quality of life.

Get into a good exercise routine

Both you and your pet need regular physical exercise in order to be fit. Pets do well with a routine. If you don’t have a yard for your pet to exercise in, you should walk them regularly. Right before work or after dinner are usually good times for a lot of people. The breed of your dog will determine how much activity they really need. If you don’t have the time for a high-energy breed, it can be very hard on them. When picking out a dog, you should take activity requirements into consideration.

Visit your veterinarian regularly

Cats and dogs both need regular checkups to ensure they are in good health. At the very least, an annual exam is recommended. This allows for annual vaccinations and tests for heartworms. Many health issues can be treated much more easily and at lower cost if they are caught early. Your veterinarian can prescribe medications that can prevent and eliminate common health issues such as fleas, ticks, and parasites. Bob Martin can process your prescription and give you the convenience and cost savings of buying your pet’s medications online.

Make sure you feed your pet a diet suitable for their age

Cats have three different stages of life: kitten, adult, and senior. A cat is a kitten until one year of age. Senior cats are 7 years old or older. The nutritional requirements for a growing kitten are much more intense than an adult cat. Senior cats often have lower activity levels, so they need a diet that is not as calorie dense.

Spend time with your pet

We all get busy and sometimes don’t have the amount of time we would like with our pets. If this lack of attention occurs a lot, you may find yourself with a depressed pet that acts out. Dogs and cats that have been raised as pets need regular attention and love in order to be in their best state of health. During busy times, you may consider soliciting the help of others to spend time with your beloved dogs and cats.