To keep your pets healthy and happy as they age, take them to the veterinarian at least once a year. Preventative care can detect future problem or prevent certain aliments from worsening. Some pets may need to go to the veterinarian more often depending on their health conditions.
To be their healthiest, pets need to maintain a healthy weight. An overweight pet has a tendency to have debilitating health problems, such as joint pain, arthritis, diabetes or liver and kidney malfunctions.
Reduce the amount of special treats you feed your pets. Pets love their treats and may be hard to resist, but every extra treat brings along extra calories they will have to burn off to be at a healthy weight. So, when they are begging for kibble keep in mind their health is at stake.
When feeding your pet, it’s best to give it one meal a day or several small meals throughout the day. Be sure to remove any food in the bowl after it has finished eating. Tell your children not to give the pet any extra food and explain why it’s a bad idea.
Be sure to provide your pet with a consistent supply of fresh, cool water. Older pets may have trouble reaching the water bowl. Pet owners can make it easier on infirm pets by buying elevated water bowls and keeping them in central locations so pets don’t have to go far to get a drink.
A daily walk is beneficial to your pet and to you. Regular exercise improves circulation and provides a change of scenery so your pet doesn’t get bored. Your pet enjoys spending time with you as much as you enjoy spending time with it.
As your pet ages you may find they can no longer digest dry food or it may be too hard on its teeth. When that happens, switch to moist or canned dog food.
No matter what your pets’ age, regular visits to the veterinarian will help detect potential problems and keep them their healthiest.
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