Guest post by Nick Burton of ourbestdoggo.com
As pet parents, we want the best for our barking babies. This means we have to pay attention to their health from the moment that they come into our lives, no matter what age that might be. Today, we take a few moments to discuss some common health issues and offer general advice on how to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
Feed them well
Just like you, your dog has to eat well to stay healthy. Your dog's veterinarian can help you make the most informed decision about the types of food and treats your animal should have. They can also discuss how much and how often they should be fed. If you’re looking for healthy treats, The Classic Pooch has them, and you can choose from anything from collagen chews to whole-grain biscuits.
Manage your own stress
Did you know that your dog can pick up on your emotions? They can, and you must learn how to manage your own stress to keep anxiety at bay for your animal companions. Dogs are especially keen at reading subtle signals that indicate you’re not in the best mood. If you’re struggling with stress at the office, consider working from home one or two times each day or going for a mood-enhancing walk with your pet every afternoon.
Look for signs of hearing loss
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from hearing loss. And, according to Forever Vets, deafness is a fairly common condition, affecting up to 10% of dogs in the US. If you think your dog might be suffering from hearing loss, look out for a few key signs. These can include decreased response to verbal commands or a lack of reaction when calling your dog's name. You may also notice that your dog misses certain sounds, like a doorbell ringing or the vacuum running. Other signs like avoiding physical contact, increased aggression, and changes in behavior can also point to hearing loss. If you notice any of these signs in your pet, it is important to consult with a veterinarian for further guidance.
Pay attention to your dog’s eyes
Something else that aging humans and dogs have in common are eye problems. Dogs can develop cataracts, glaucoma, conjunctivitis, and other issues that can cause discomfort or even blindness. If you suspect that your dog is having trouble with their vision, look out for a few key signs. Your pet may be increasingly bumping into objects or struggling to navigate familiar places. You may also notice an increase in aggression or signs of distress when there is a lot of movement around them. Additionally, changes in behavior such as not recognizing people they know and avoiding stairs can be indicators of vision loss. Also, look at your dog's eyes every day, and make sure their environment is free of dust, smoke, and other irritants. If you notice signs of eye irritation, like discharge or redness, visit your veterinarian.
Exercise together
Exercise is important for keeping your dog healthy, both physically and mentally. (Same goes for humans, and we are starting to see a pattern here!) It’s important to help your dog maintain a healthy weight, build muscle mass, and keep their immune system strong. Your veterinarian can talk to you about the types of exercise your dog needs, but a good place to begin is by running or playing with them 30 minutes each day. Finding activities you can do together will help keep your dog's mind sharp, too.
Understand the importance of veterinary care
Regardless of age, your pet should have a relationship with their veterinarian. Routine checkups can help keep your animal healthy as your veterinarian can detect health problems early on. And, as we’ve already asserted, your veterinarian is your greatest ally when it comes to giving you guidance on your pets nutrition, exercise, and preventative health measures. Your veterinarian can also ensure that your pet is up-to-date on their immunizations.
We all want our pets to be healthy, happy, and whole. And it’s our job to ensure they get and stay that way. For managing your own stress to exercising and keeping your veterinarian close at hand, today’s tips are just a few ways that you can make life better for the adopted addition to your family.