Did you know owning a pet can ease loneliness and lower stress and anxiety? Yes, and having a dog as a companion is said to boost your physical activity, not to mention the likelihood of exercising. Pet ownership also benefits your children by instilling the heart of caring and developing a sense of responsibility. There are numerous benefits!

We may agree on the advantages of owning a pet, but we have our preferences. Some of us are dog lovers; we adore their loyalty, while others are more partial to cats. Some love birds, and still others colourful, tropical fish does it for them. Wherever we swing on the pendulum, a point that cannot be disputed is that our pets must get the proper care.

Of course, an important part of pet care is ensuring they are healthy and happy. Like any other family member, we want them up, about and around for as long as possible. Now, if you’re more inclined towards the four-legged kind, that’s excellent because we want to guide you in keeping your furry friend healthy.  

Here are four quick tips on how to keep your pet healthy.

Know the benefits of getting regular check-ups done. There are significant benefits to having your pet undergo routine checks with a veterinarian. First, it will help ensure they are treated for internal and external parasites. Also, regular visits help detect and diagnose early signs of disease, thereby leading to successful treatment.

Know the importance of vaccinations in protecting your pets. Vaccinations are crucial in preventing and treating diseases in pets. There are several life-threatening diseases against which your pet should be inoculated. Here’s a list to keep in mind:

Dogs

• Parvovirus
• Canine Distemper
• Leptospirosis
• Adenovirus
• Para influenza
• Canine coronavirus

Cats

• Viral rhinotracheitis
• Panleukopenia
• Calicivirus

Also, be sure your veterinary practitioner provides you with a health card after the first vaccination.

Know when your pet needs deworming; get to know the signs. Deworming is critical in maintaining our furry companions’ health, which we often overlook. However, doing so can result in disastrous consequences, from not eating to death in extreme cases. Some signs you can be mindful of are a pot belly or distended stomach, pale gums, which indicate anaemia or dehydration, weight loss, vomiting, appetite loss, or lethargy. Consult with your local vet to determine the deworming medication most suitable for your pet and to establish a deworming schedule to keep your pet on the right track.

Know when to examine and treat your pets for parasites. Ticks and fleas are external parasites that affect dogs, cats, and livestock at all life stages. They can transmit fatal diseases to these animals. Early signs your pet is under attack include itching, skin irritation, listlessness and sometimes even loss of appetite. If you notice any of these, it is best to contact your local veterinary clinic for an examination and to discuss methods you can use to prevent them from recurring. Do keep a record of your pet’s vaccination and parasite control.

We may focus on grooming and feeding when we think of pet care. While these are essential, we can’t afford to neglect the medical aspects of pet maintenance. Routine check-ups, scheduled vaccinations, deworming and parasite control help keep your pet healthy. You can stay abreast with your pet’s clinic card. Store it safely and remember to present it at each visit to the veterinarian.

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Do you need to find a vet for your furry friend? Search your FindYello Veterinarian listing.

Sources: Pet Paradise & Livestock Supplies and Help Guide.