Table of contents
Having a pet sounds interesting and fun. But adopting a pet and caring for it is a big responsibility. Here are some tips to help you care for your pet and keep it happy, active and healthy:
Regular check-ups are essential
Just like you, your pet may have heart problems, develop arthritis or have toothaches. The best way to prevent these problems or detect them early is to visit your vet every year.
Annual visits to the vet should include nutrition and weight control, as well as recommended vaccinations, parasite control, dental examinations and health screenings. If you would like to know more, click here to read.
Preventing parasites
Fleas are the most common external parasite for pets. They can cause skin irritation, hair loss, hot spots and infections. Fleas can also introduce other parasites into your cat or dog. All it takes is for your pet to swallow a flea to become infected with tapeworm, the most common internal parasite in dogs and cats.
Prevention throughout the year is essential. Regular flea and intestinal parasite checks are important, as is heartworm prevention in endemic areas.
Maintain a healthy weight
As with humans, obesity in pets comes with health risks, including diabetes, arthritis and cancer.
Overeating is the main cause of obesity. Keeping your pets fit can add years to their lives.
Get them vaccinated regularly
For optimal health, pets should be regularly vaccinated against diseases such as rabies, distemper, feline leukemia and canine hepatitis.
The frequency of your dog or cat's vaccinations depends on its age, lifestyle, health status and risk; talk to your vet about the right vaccines for your pet.
Provide an enriched environment
Pets need mental stimulation, which can mean daily walks for your dog and scratching posts, perches and toys for your cat. It also means playtime with you, which not only tones your pet's muscles and keeps boredom at bay, but also strengthens your bond with your four-legged friends.