5 Ways to Help Your Dog Live Its Best Life
All the dogs want to know, will there be bone-broth cake during National Dog Week? Celebrate the week of September 20-27 with special treats for the dogs in your life and learn more about how to keep them happy and healthy. Here are some of our favorite ways to celebrate one of our favorite weeks of the year:
#1. Give a Dog a Home for National Dog Week
Giving a dog a good home is the first step toward a great life for a dog that needs you! Adopt a new pet from a shelter or reputable breeder or help a rescue pup that needs a permanent new home.
#2. Feed, Train, Love
Good nutrition is important to the health and wellbeing of your pet. The right food can:
- Keep your dog’s coat healthy and shiny
- Help build muscle, organs, and keep your pet’s whole body in good condition
- With added vitamins and minerals, good food can help prevent disease and promote healing
Ask us for diet recommendations for your pet.
Once you’ve got the food covered, start training your dog early. Training will not only help build a strong bond between you and your canine companion, but good training could also save your dog’s life. Learning to stay and to come when called can keep your dog out of harm’s way.
Love is the key to happiness for everyone. Your dog needs affection from you and more. The love you give your pet will not only bond you together, but will bring you joy and give your dog a happy life.
#3. Groom, Walk, Play
Did you know that regular grooming helps keep your dog’s skin free from pests and matted fur? Additionally, frequent walks can strengthen the bond between you and your pet, promote muscle tone, and increase your dog’s happiness score! Playtime, whether chasing, catching, fetching, jumping, swimming—whatever form it takes—keeps your dog fit and reduces the chance of depression from boredom.
With a regular regiment of grooming, walking, and playing, your dog will look AND feel his/her best.
#4. Wellness Visits, Pest Preventives, and Healthy Treats
Regular visits to the vet for wellness checkups can detect any health issues that might be brewing. Early diagnosis means early treatment for better outcomes. Inside and outside dogs are vulnerable to parasites such as fleas, ticks, and heartworms. Ask us to recommend appropriate preventive products for your pet.
Remember—not all treats are good for dogs. Make sure you offer treats that won’t make your dog sick. Some human foods are highly toxic, and others are beneficial and tasty. Be sure you know what treats are safe for your furry friend!
#5. Safety First at Home and Outside
Your home is full of plenty of potential hazards for your new dog. The best way to prevent an unnecessary accident is to educate yourself on what could harm your pup. Here are some ways to get started:
- Keep your yard clear of animal waste and brush and wood piles that can house predators and parasites
- Learn about toxic treats—what you eat may not be safe for your dog
- Always offer water and food in clean bowls, especially outside bowls that could be alive with toxic bacteria!
- Use a breakaway collar on your outside dog, when traveling, and even inside, to reduce the risk of strangulation if the collar gets caught on something
- Know the risks of heat, sun, and extreme cold for your dog
- When you’re out running errands, leave your pet at home if outside temperatures exceed 70 degrees. Your dog won’t know what he’s missing, especially if you offer a healthy treat and a hug when you return.
We Are Here to Help Your Pets Stay Healthy Throughout Their Lives
At Leon Valley Animal Hospital, our staff and veterinarians are here to answer your pet care questions. We want to partner with you to help your dog live its best life with medical care and educational resources.
Call us at (210) 681-1391 to schedule an appointment or use our online Appointment Request form. We look forward to your next visit!