Keeping Your Dog Healthy

Many people consider their dog their best friend, and why
shouldn’t they? Our dogs greet us at the door as though they
haven’t seen us in years, even if we’ve only been gone ten
minutes. They put up with our moods – good, bad, and in-between
- and they tolerate our bad habits. So, it’s natural that you’d
want to keep your dog around for as long as possible. So, how do
you do that?

First and probably most important of all, unless you’re planning
to breed your dog, you should look into spaying or neutering
your pet. Every year, too many unwanted pets and accidental
litters have to be put down. As a responsible pet owner, it is
your duty to help control this practice on your end.

The thing that causes your dog the most misery by far is the
common flea. If your dog has fleas – you know it! He’s miserable
- biting and scratching, often to the point of whining in pain.
Only a few fleas can flare up into a major allergic reaction.
Fleas should be treated right away. There are so many excellent
options available for flea treatment – sprays, collars, lotions,
ointments, baths, powders – the choice is virtually limitless!

Did you know that dogs are susceptible to about sixty different
types of diseases? Twenty of those diseases are transmittable to
humans. To help protect your dog (and yourself) against these
diseases, make sure your dog is protected by vaccination. These
vaccines also have to have boosters. However, discuss the
concept of yearly boosters with your veterinarian. Many vets
believe yearly boosters are unnecessary and they can actually
cause disease.

Routine grooming and daily exercise are a must for any dog.
Keeping your dog’s skin, coat, teeth, gums, and nails healthy
make your dog look its very best, and does wonders for the dog’s
mental and physical health. Exercise, like a daily walk, will
help keep your dog physically fit.

You should include routine checks on your dog, such as examining
his hair and skin for dandruff and his mouth and teeth for
dental problems and bad breath. Your dog’s behavior is also an
important thing to check for. If your dog seems out of the
ordinary, or you feel the slightest bit worried, your vet is the
person to see. Only your vet will be able to give your dog a
proper check-up, and calm your fears.

You love your dog. Caring for him properly and ensuring his
health is just another way showing him just how much.