Seven ways of making a healthy new year for your pet

One of the most important things you can add to your list of New Year resolutions is to think about a few concrete solutions for ensuring that your pet has a stress free and healthy lifestyle. We all love our pets and we think that we are taking proper care of them like any other member of the family, but the truth is that animals have special needs and we need to increase our awareness levels about their health demands.

1. What not to feed

Poultry bones and fat can lead to severe gastric problems and distress. The broken bones might injure the delicate viscera of your pets. The normal ingredients in human consumption like garlic, onions and other herbs can prove to be health risks if taken in large quantity. Methylxanthines, a substance present in cocoa and chocolate, is highly toxic for cats and dogs. So, keeping our diet and theirs separate is the first step.

2. Designing a healthy diet

There are many good options in the market but you can make a balanced nutritional meal for your pet at home also. While dogs love to gorge on meat, you can include rice, cereals and green leafy vegetables which will provide fiber for healthy bowel movements.

3. Exercise

It is estimated that 60 percent of the pets are usually obese or overweight which can lead to many problems specially related with heart, kidneys and bones. If you live in a city, walking the pet down a couple of blocks can work wonders for your pet and yourself! If possible, three times a week. Find an open space (of course, not near bushes or you will lose them if they are small) and let them free up their muscles.

4. Understanding and giving more time

We should also understand the fact that animals are also subject to acute stress which can affect them severely. As a sensitive owner, indulging in a little chit-chat and spending quality time with them will definitely boost up their mental state and thus their health.

5. Grooming

All pets require periodic bathing, grooming of their coats, proper brushing and cutting, and cleaning of nails and ears. This will make the pet look beautiful and also makes possible to discover external parasites and take remedial measures.

6. Oral Care

Pets do need regular oral care which if neglected might result in tooth loss. An infected tooth can lead to further complications if the bacteria get into the blood stream. Regular brushing is necessary but if your pet is a bit difficult to handle then oral rinses and chews are other options.

7. Regular vet visit

Do not wait to visit your vet until your pet is seriously ill. Remember, a disease in initial state is easier and cheaper to tackle rather than a full blown case. Also interact with your vet on a variety of issues regarding general health care, diet, dos and don’ts to get more insight about the well being of your pet.