If you are a pet owner, you know the relationship between a person and their dog. So, how can you keep them around for as long as possible? There are some pet care tips that can improve holistic health, while also extending life quality and longevity for dogs.
Experts assert that dogs are living twice as long as they did back in the ’70s and ’80s. This is good news for anyone that owns an older dog; typically, this increase in lifespan is due to veterinary advancements, better nutrition, and more restraint when it comes to keeping dogs leashed and fenced-in.
Here are some tips to extend quality of life for your canine companion:
Watch Their Weight
The first thing that you can do to help your pet live longer and better is to keep an eye on their weight. Obesity brings a wide range of health issues that can impact both the length and quality of your dog’s life. Some of the issues caused by excess weight are high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney problems, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. The best way to trim-down an overweight dog is with fewer treats and more physical activity.
Get Moving
Speaking of exercise, most dogs need some physical activity each and every day. Certainly, account for your dog’s age, conditioning, and breed before beginning a new exercise regimen, but try to get them up and moving around for a minimum of 30 minutes daily.
Challenge Them
Challenge your pets with games and puzzles that will keep their mind active. Dogs can become bored. Provide toys that will engage them and that rewards them, such as those that contain treats. This may also help provide some much needed physical activity and bonding time with their humans.
Brush Their Teeth
Dental health has serious impacts on overall wellbeing. Your dog should have their teeth brushed daily with pet-approved brushes and toothpastes. Never use human products on your pet; some toothpastes contain sweeteners that are toxic for dogs. Plaque and bacteria on your pet’s teeth can travel through the bloodstream causing problems with their heart, lungs, and other organs. Plus, tooth decay can cause your pet pain and infection.
See Your Vet
Perhaps the most important thing that owners can do to extend their pet’s best life is to take them for regular and routine veterinary visits. Wellness exams, preventative care, and emergency treatment are all key in keeping your pet well throughout the lifespan- find a vet that will treat your pet as they age.
Use these tips to keep your pet around as long as possible. When the time comes, talk to the caring professionals at Midlands Pet Care, a family owned and operated company, helping owners say ‘goodbye’ to their cherished pets and specializing in burials and cremations.