Pets are members of our family, and some people even refer to them as their “fur babies,” so it’s only natural that we want them to live for as long as possible. The best way of doing this is by caring for your pet to ensure they always remain in excellent health. Learn great tips for keeping your dog healthy so you can live a long and happy life together.
Feed Them Right
Sometimes, denying those big puppy dog eyes is hard as your pooch begs for the slightest bit of “people food” while you eat a meal. However, some human foods are dangerous for pets and can cause sickness. Besides the well-known and forbidden chocolate, dogs shouldn’t eat:
- Avocados
- Macadamia nuts
- Caffeine and alcohol
- Garlic
- Grapes
Remember that these are just some of the many foods you should avoid feeding your dog. Canines require a balanced diet that’s rich in protein and nutrients. Your pup’s age also impacts the type of food they should eat based on nutritional value. When in doubt about what to feed your dog, consult your vet.
Pro Tip
Avoid giving your dog foods with artificial sweeteners like Xylitol (sometimes referred to as birch sweetener). Xylitol can cause severe illness or death. Knowing this ingredient is vital because some peanut butter brands include this in their ingredients, and you never want to give your pup a treat that could harm them.
Understand Their Health
Like people, dogs can have different health conditions like allergies, diabetes, arthritis, etc. If your pet receives a diagnosis, talk to the vet about the disease and ask for resources so you can learn more. For example, if your dog gets diagnosed with diabetes, Pet Test has outlined the many benefits of having at-home health tests; they also have the needed care products so you can check and maintain your dog’s blood sugar levels.
The more you understand your pet’s condition, the easier it is to provide them with the treatment they need. Helping your pup feel better is as simple as swapping out your dog’s kibble, especially if they have an allergy to the one you currently give them.
Give Them a Workout
Dogs need physical and mental workouts to look and feel great. Regular walks give your pooch an outlet to burn off some extra energy and engage their mind. On rainy days when getting outside is impossible, you can exercise their mind. Remember, dogs are working animals, so teach them new commands or invest in feeding mats so they must search for their food.
Vaccinate Your Dog
One of the most vital tips for caring for your pup is to vaccinate them regularly. Dogs can contract dangerous diseases like parvo or distemper, harming their health. You can prevent many deadly canine diseases through vaccinations and by administering parasite repellents.
Your pet is a family member, and their health is as important as everyone else’s. With the proper care, your pup can live a long, happy life enjoying every adventure you two go on!
