While the cuddles are great, caring for your pup goes well beyond giving them all the love in the world. Here are 6 things our Clinton Township vets recommend to help keep your dog happy and healthy.
1. Ensure Your Dog Eats a Complete and Balanced Diet
One of the main aspects of your dog's health is their diet. To help keep your dog healthy, speak with your vet about the type and amount of food they recommend based on your dog's unique age, size, and lifestyle. The food you choose should be well-balanced and contain high-quality ingredients. Say no to fillers!
If your dog has special dietary or health needs, there are plenty of prescription food options available that can help your dog reach their optimal health. Our veterinary clinic in Clinton Township has a selection of dog food to meet your pup's dietary needs.
2. Manage Your Dogs Weight to Help Keep Them Healthy
Obesity has been linked to a number of serious conditions in dogs including diabetes and cardiovascular disease, so keeping your dog at a healthy weight is essential for optimal health. Not only is the type of food you choose to feed your dog important but the portion size is equally as important. Most food bags come with guidelines based on your dog's size, but it doesn't hurt to check in with your vet to find out your pup's ideal number of daily calories.
You may also want to keep track of how many treats you or your family give to your dog each day. Treats should only make up about 10% of your dog's daily intake and while they are a great training tool, it's important not to feed your dog so many that you're going over their daily recommended calorie amount.
If possible, try switching up standard dog treats for low-calorie healthy snacks such as pieces of apple, baby carrots, or frozen blueberries.
3. Provide Your Dog With Plenty of Exercise
The amount of exercise that your dog needs will depend on their age and breed. While some dogs can stay healthy with one to two short walks a day, high-energy breeds may need an hour or more of vigorous exercise once or twice a day. Adequate physical activity not only helps to keep your dog's body in good condition, but it can also help to prevent mental boredom which can lead to destructive behaviors or anxiety. Walks, backyard games, and social time at dog parks are all great ways to ensure your pooch gets plenty of exercise.
When considering getting a dog be sure to factor in your lifestyle and try to choose a dog that matches your activity level. Speak with your vet in Clinton Township to learn more about the needs of different dog breeds,
4. Bring Your Dog to the Vet For Routine Exams
Bringing your dog to the vet for routine exams is a crucial part of their ongoing health care. Even if your pup seems healthy, you should take them for an annual exam. Annual exams allow your vet to assess your pet's health and screen for any emerging conditions that are easier to treat when caught early.
As part of their annual wellness exam, you should also talk to your veterinarian in Clinton Township about yearly routine bloodwork and a fecal exam. Both of these tools allow your vet to get a better look at your pet's internal health to be sure there are no hidden conditions or parasites that could make your dog sick if not treated.
5. Have Your Dog Fully Vaccinated Against Serious Diseases
Our Clinton Township vets stress the importance of vaccinations as part of helping your pet live a long and healthy life. Regularly scheduled vaccines help to protect your dog from many highly contagious, potentially life-threatening diseases. Most states require by law that all pets be vaccinated against rabies, but there are a number of other serious conditions that vaccines protect dogs against including parvo, distemper, and hepatitis.
6. Keep Your Dog Up-To-Date With Parasite Prevention
Along with regular vaccination, you should also ensure your pet is up-to-date on their parasite prevention measures. There are a host of parasites, including fleas, ticks, and heartworms, that can cause your dog to become seriously ill or uncomfortable. Many parasites also have the ability to spread to other pets or people in your household.
Speak to your veterinarian in Clinton Township township about the most effective ways to protect your dog against the parasites that are common in the area.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.