Your pet is a part of the family, which means that their health is just as important as yours or your children’s. But, emergency veterinary care can become very expensive, with medication like chemotherapy, and even kidney or hip transplants for your pets costing thousands of dollars. Luckily, as the adage goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and the better preventative steps you take toward keeping your pet’s health good, the less likely it is that your pet will need extreme procedures. In recognition of Pet Health Awareness Month during February, let’s take a look at a few tips for keeping your pet healthy and happy at home.
Of course, good hygiene is also important. Brushing your pets teeth regularly and having good grooming habits overall can go a long way to keeping your pet healthy and happy. Brushing can remove plaque buildup and bacteria, helping prevent the onset of gingivitis. Don’t feel comfortable with brushing? There are a wide variety of dental treats available that offer many of the same effects and can help keep your dog or cat’s mouth clean and disease free.
Don’t forget the routine veterinary appointment. The Humane Society implores pet owners not to skip the annual check-ups at the vet. If certain issues go unchecked for long periods of time, your pet will only have more pain and suffering to deal with, and it’ll likely impact your wallet. You see your doctor for annual well-care appointments to make sure that you’re doing well, so it makes sense that your pet would stand to benefit the same way from seeing his or her doctor, too!
The American Veterinary Medical Association also says it’s important to vaccinate your pet, and make sure that your pet’s diet is healthy and balanced. If your pet reaches an unhealthy weight, it may be time to adjust their diet and exercise to prevent health problems. Overweight pets can suffer from a wide range of conditions, from joint damage and weakness to canine or feline diabetes or even heart disease. Keep your pet active and their diet managed to prevent obesity issues.
If your pet needs a bit of extra TLC while you’re away from home during the day at work, or traveling for the weekend, Hill Country Pet Sitters Plus may be able to help. Offering in-home care and on-site appointments for pet care, walking or even grooming, we can make sure that your pet is well taken care of in the comfort of your home when you can’t be there. To learn more, check out our services page or give us a call today at 830-624-9284.