If you are looking for tried and tested techniques to help your pet live longer, then you have come to the right place. Although nobody likes to think about the day when their beloved pet will no longer be with them, unfortunately, animals have a much shorter lifespan than people, and sadly there will come a time when you have to say goodbye.
That being said, with the right care, you can help your pet to live a long and healthy life. This guide looks at how you can increase your pet’s life and enjoy more precious time with your four-legged friend.
Watch their weight
According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, a whopping 60% of cats and dogs in the United States are either overweight or obese. Leading to a whole host of health problems, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, breathing problems, and arthritis, being overweight has the potential to shorten a dog’s lifespan by as much as 2.5 years.
Instead, make sure that you feed your pet a balanced and nutritious diet that is specifically designed for them and that you keep an eye on their weight.
If you are concerned that your pet is overweight, Colonial Animal Hospital offers routine check-ups for a wide variety of different animals, as well as wellness exams that can help determine any minor health issues before they become more problematic.
Provide regular exercise
Depending on what type of pet you have and what breed, the amount of exercise your animal needs will vary. That being said, all animals benefit from being physically active, so you should look for ways to help your pet get more exercise.
For dogs, this may include regular walks, and for cats, you could play with using a laser pointer or give them another toy to chase and play with.
Brush their teeth
A vital part of your pet’s wellness routine that many pet owners forget, up to 68% of cats and 76% of dogs in the United States have dental disease. Although this may not seem like a life-threatening issue, dental disease in animals can lead to the development of both heart and kidney disease.
Avoid this by brushing your pet’s teeth and gums every day using a pet-friendly toothbrush and pet toothpaste. You can also have your pet’s teeth professionally cleaned by your vet once a year for even better protection against gum disease.
See your vet regularly
As briefly mentioned above, when it comes to your pet’s health, you need to be vigilant and identify any issues before they develop into something more serious. The easiest way to do this is by attending regular check-ups at your local veterinarian center.
Most adults dogs and cats only need to be checked over once a year. However, it is worth asking your vet if they think your animal needs to be seen more regularly.
Show love
A happy pet is a healthy pet, and there is no better way to make your animal happy than to show your love for them. Even if you are away from them for the majority of the day, make sure you take the time in the mornings and evenings to spend time with your pet and give them the love and attention they deserve.