We all want the best for our furry family members, as pet owners. Every pet parent wants to know that their pets are getting everything they need to be happy and healthy. Today, our Sharpsburg vets will provide you with a checklist of responsible pet ownership.
1. Take Time to Train Your Dog
Obedience training not only teaches your dog good manners, but also keeps your dog happy, healthy, and safe. Positive reinforcement dog training is also a fun, enriching activity for dogs and a way to engage their brain. Positive reinforcement training entails rewarding your dog with treats for performing the desired cue.
2. Have Some Playtime
Playing with your pet is an important part of developing and strengthening your bond. You must determine, however, what gets your pet up and moving because not all pets enjoy the same types of play. This means you'll have to experiment with various cat or dog toys until you find something they enjoy.
3. Take Your Dog on Daily Walks
Dog walks, in particular, are an important part of your dog's exercise and socialization routine. You must schedule daily walks for your dog as a responsible pet parent. When taking your dog for a walk outside, keep in mind the importance of using a dog leash. You should also ensure that your dog is trained to return to you and respond to cues if he manages to escape.
4. Clean Up After Your Pet
When walking your dog, keep dog poop bags on hand to clean up any mess he makes on the sidewalk or a neighbor's lawn. There are numerous dog poop bag dispensers on the market that can be attached directly to your dog's leash. Pet parents must pick up after their dogs because it not only keeps walkways clean but also prevents disease spread. Make sure to clean the litter box daily for cats.
5. Groom Your Pet
Never use cotton swabs to clean your pet's ears. Before attempting it at home, it's always a good idea to have your veterinarian demonstrate the proper technique. The frequency with which you bathe your pet is determined by their coat and routine activities. If your pet dislikes having their nails clipped, contact a groomer or your veterinarian; they are always happy to help.
6. Microchip Your Pet
You should take every precaution as a pet owner to ensure that your pet is easily identified. From ID tags on their collars to GPS tracking equipment, you can help to ensure your pet never goes missing. If your dog or cat isn't already microchipped, you should get it done as soon as possible.
7. Take Them For Routine Checkups
As the owner, you are responsible for your pet's health, which includes regular veterinary care. Veterinarians will be able to prevent disease and treat problems as they arise if you bring your pet for regular veterinary visits. Depending on their age and lifestyle, adult pets may require yearly vaccinations in addition to regular physical exams. Adult pets may also require yearly vaccinations depending on your location, health concerns, disease risk, or travel plans.
8. Make Sure You Keep Up With Dental Care
Regularly brushing your pet's teeth and gums can help keep them healthy. Use dog dental chews or cat dental treats between brushings to help fight dental disease. Annual dental cleanings with your veterinarian are essential for their overall health too.
The Convenience of Wellness Plans
Pet Wellness Plans combine all of the preventive services, including those listed above, that keep your pet healthy throughout the year into a simple monthly payment plan, allowing you to save money and better manage your budget. At East Coweta Veterinary Hospital, our wellness plans for dogs include:
- Bi-annual Wellness Exam
- Annual Core Vaccination
- Intestinal Parasite Screenings
- Heartworm
- 12 Month Supply of Flea & Tick Prevention
- 12 Month Supply of Heartworm Prevention
And our wellness plans for cats include:
- Annual Core Vaccination
- Bi-annual Intestinal Parasite Screenings
- Bi-annual Wellness Exam
- 12 Month Supply of Flea & Tick Prevention