For many people, pets are the center of their world. They’re like our fluffy adopted kids that bark and tear up the house and pee on the floor—a lot closer to real kids than you’d think—and like our kids, it’s natural that we’d want to keep them happy and healthy. Are you doing everything you should in order to keep them that way? Here are a few ways you can guarantee it.
Give Them Exercise
Unlike most of us, your dog will likely be eager to go outside for some much-needed exercise. It’s important to take your dog for a walk every day in order to keep them physically active, and it probably won’t hurt you, either. Cats are a little trickier, but you can certainly put a harness or leash on them, too, as they will likely be curious about the great outdoors and enjoy seeing what nature has to offer. Although you may not need to walk your cat as often as a dog, it’s still good to give them some sort of exercise, even if that’s just playing until they can’t play anymore or chasing a laser pointer.
Annual Check-Ups
Just as you go to the doctor for physicals or potential surgeries, like the kind offered at Northwest Surgery Center, so too does your pet. Typically you should only need to take them to the veterinary clinic once a year so long as they are healthy. They will receive a physical to make sure everything is in tip-top shape and be given their yearly booster shots. As much as your pet will undoubtedly loathe going, it’s all to keep them safe, so give them some good pets afterward.
A Balanced Diet
Diet is just as important for your pets as it is for you, which is why you want to invest in high-quality food for them to munch on daily. It’s also crucial that you do not give them any scraps or “people food” that could potentially make them sick, or worse, poison them. Watch how much you feed them, and ensure that they are getting enough to eat, but are also not being overfed.
Hair-Cuts and Baths
As many pet owners will be aware, their fluffy companion may have a tendency to shed. Make sure to keep their fur under control with regular grooming. Keep an eye on their claws as well in case they need to be clipped or trimmed. You can even wrap it all up with a soothing bath that they will most likely not enjoy, but it’s all part of the routine and will keep their fur healthy, soft, and smelling fresh.
Love and Attention
What more could your pet need than undivided love and attention? Be sure to socialize with them every day to keep them happy and excited to be around people. No, you don’t have to ask them about the weather—unless you really want to—but giving them plenty of time to play, sit on the couch with you, or simply be in your presence is sure to boost their mood.
And the Pet Parent of the Year Award Goes to…
Happy? Check. Healthy? Double-check. If you’re currently doing all of the above, then you can rest easy knowing that you’re a pretty good pet owner and can all but guarantee that your pet will be living its best life.
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