7 Tips to Keep Your Dogs Healthy and Happy

All pet parents can agree on one thing: Dogs deserve a long, happy, and healthy life! Fortunately, there are things you can do to make your favorite dogs feel happier and healthier. The Insured Pet has a run-down on these dog health tips. Check them out:

1. Have them immunizedFemale dogs naturally pass antibodies to their puppies via breastfeeding. However, these antibodies have been used up by the time the puppies reach three months of age. Thus, they need to be vaccinated to keep their immunity strong against many harmful diseases, like rabies, distemper, and parvovirus.

   Ask the veterinarian on which vaccines are appropriate and when must they be accomplished. Vaccinations have always been a life-saver. Don’t miss out on any important vaccines for your pets.

2. Build a daily exercise routine
   Find more activities than just having a stroll around the block. Consider running, playing fetch, swimming, and enrolling them in an agility camp. Regular exercise can keep them physically fit, maintain a healthy weight, and improve their behavior as well. However, it’s important to know that a dog’s exercise requirement may vary depending on several factors, like health, age, sex, and breed.
3. Protect their heart against worms
   Heartworm is a common fatal condition among dogs. Though it is difficult to treat the disease, it is still very preventable. There are many tablets available against heartworms. Talk to your veterinarian on which one is best for your buddy and how often they must take it.
4. Control their ticks and fleasTicks and fleas carry more harm than the usual skin itch. These parasites are the usual vectors of many bacteria and viruses, aside from causing allergies and anemia.

   Luckily, you can easily engage in flea wars and improve your chances of totally eliminating them! There are many ticks and fleas control products available. Consult your veterinarian on how to apply these treatments properly.

5. Ban those dangerous foods
   It is not only the chocolates that are harmful. There are more foods that must be completely banned from your buddy’s dog bowl: avocado, fatty foods, onions, grapes, garlic, coffee, alcoholic drinks, and etc. Look it up online, make a list, and post it in strategic areas where you and your family can be easily reminded.
6. Undergo de-sexing (spay or neuter)
   De-sexing generally keeps your dog from having an unwanted litter of puppies. Spaying a female pooch prevents her from going into heat, reduce the risk of uterus infections, and avoid breast cancer. Neutering a male fur-ball prevents testicular and prostate cancer, avoids hernias, and loosen up an aggressive behavior.
7. Have regular health screenings
   When was the last time you took your dogs to their doctors? Dogs need regular health screenings, too! This provides early detection, prevention, and treatment of illnesses before they can cause significant emotional and financial stress. It’s a good idea to have a regular veterinarian to supervise your dog’s overall health.

Understanding the basics of your dog’s health and well-being goes a long way in keeping them in optimum condition. Have we missed other health tips? Let us know in the comments.