Pet health is vital for a happy and vibrant pet. So, with a new year upon us, how can you resolve to keep your pet happy and healthy? We have great tips that are sure to bring the barks, purrs, and love that will last all year long!

Create A Schedule For Regular Doctor’s Visits For Your Pet

You as a pet owner know that your furry friend needs medical visits; therefore, it may help to create a schedule for them, as the new year approaches. While many of us need a regular checkup once a year, veterinarians recommend medical check-ups twice a year for older pets.

Additionally, kittens and puppies should be vaccinated by a veterinarian every three to four weeks. These vaccinations should be a staple until the animal reaches 16 weeks old. Vaccinations are vital for humans as well as pets to ensure that certain pet diseases can be kept at bay. Illnesses such as pet heartworm disease and even pet allergies won’t be a factor, as long as regular check-ups are a part of the plan.

Regular medical check-ups for your pet that are scheduled at the beginning of the year, can help you plan family vacations, commitments, and other duties in a more streamlined fashion. Your local animal center can offer you convenient times and days that won’t hamper your activities.

Regular medical care will also help to keep your schedule intact. You may even schedule your own medical appointments at the start of the year.

Dental health is also important. Animals need healthy teeth in order to chew food adequately and thrive. Studies show that approximately 80% of dogs and 70% of cats begin to show signs of a dental disease once they hit age three. Unfortunately, if left untreated, dental disease in a pet can lead to tooth loss, dental abscesses, and even chronic pain. So, be sure to ask about a regular dental brushing regimen for your pet.

Pet Health & Exercise

When it comes to pet health, it’s all about a daily walk. If you are able to, the plan should be to walk your dog each day. The walks don’t have to be lengthy excursions. A 20-to-30-minute walk can do wonders for not only your pet but for you as well.

Do you live in an area of the country that sees lots of sunshine? Are you in a region famous for crisp autumn days and beautiful snowfall? Whether you’re in a New York state of mind or ready to waltz under the Tucson sun, a dog needs regular walks. So, you should take your pet out so that they can enjoy the air, nature, and freshness each day brings. You and your furry companion will both enjoy the results of brisk walks, on a regular basis.

Learn About Healthy Food Choices For Your Pet

Another aspect of maintaining pet health, is learning about the best food choices for your pet. Do you have a puppy or a kitten, that’s just beginning the journey to food discovery? Ask your veterinarian what foods will provide the vitamins and nutrients your puppy or kitten needs in order to grow healthy and energized. Do you have a dog that is growing older and needing additional supplements? Share that with your vet and find out the best food choices for your pet, and what to feed a dog.

Perhaps you have been exploring a vegan diet for yourself and would like to know if it is also safe for your pet. The answer is almost always going to be no, but you can speak with your vet for more information on the best course of action for feeding your pet. Your animal’s vet can offer you the best course of action and guide you through healthy food choices for your pet. Be sure to ask as many questions as you can about your pet’s diet. You never want to compromise pet health in the name of food.

You have a furry companion that is looking to bring you years of comfort, joy, support, acceptance, and joy. You owe it to that furry little one to give it the care it needs. Make regular medical care and love a part of the plan, and watch as the years are filled with unforgettable furry memories!

At Southern Arizona Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center we are happy to provide a wide range of veterinary specialty and emergency services. It is important to have a “primary care” veterinarian to keep your new family member healthy and happy with routine vaccinations and health checks. But if you find yourself in the midst of a veterinary emergency, our team of experienced veterinarians is here to help. When it comes to visiting animal hospitals, we understand that the experience can be full of stress and worry, so we aim to make things as simple as possible. For more information, get in touch with one of our experts today.