4 Ways Owners Can Improve the Health of Their Pets

As pet parents, we are responsible for the happiness and welfare of our animals. Whether you have a cat, dog, guinea pig, hamster, or rabbit, these four things will improve the health and happiness of your warm-blooded pet.

1. Flea, Tick & Heartworm Prevention

Fleas and ticks cause severe scratching which causes sores to your dog or cat’s skin. Besides soreness, pets can develop anemia. Fleas bite and suck the blood from your pet. Some animals develop severe allergies to the flea saliva and make your pet sick. And, if fleas are carrying tapeworms, they can transmit the tapeworm to your pet, and transmit the infectious disease to you.

Ticks produce toxins when they bite your pet and suck on their blood. As a result, diseases such as anemia, paralysis, and Lyme disease attack your pet. Mosquitoes transfer heartworms which cause heart and lung disease.

2. Pet Insurance

Your pet needs yearly check-ups, well-care exams, and updates on his/her vaccinations. Despite the importance of these procedures, many pet owners put them off due to the high cost involved. Consider pet insurance as a way to lower these out-of-pocket costs. Many major insurance companies offer a pet insurance plan for policyholders with animals in the house. Pet insurance helps reduce the cost of veterinary bills, particularly during emergencies.

When you insure your pet, you have less out-of-pocket expenses depending on the plan you choose. Most companies offer a reimbursement plan which means you pay at the time of service and get reimbursed after you submit a claim. The higher the plan, the less out-of-pocket expense you will have.

3. Healthy Diet

Maintaining a healthy diet reduces digestive issues. Pets develop gastric issues when they consume human food. This is why it is important that you feed your pet a balanced diet that includes proteins, minerals, and nutrients not found in human food.

There are many food manufacturers selling a plethora of wet and dry food for pets. The prices range from exuberant to cheap. Research the brands of cat and dog foods before you decide on the right one for your pet. Ask your pet’s veterinarian for advice if you are not sure.

4. Exercise

Keeping your pet active maintains them healthy and fit. Pets need exercise like people. By exercising, your pet builds strength and vitality, helps hip joints and digestive system.

Exercise include but are not limited to:

• Running or jogging with your dog

• Chasing and playing with your cat

• Tug-a-war

• Playing fetch

• Entertaining your guinea pig, hamster, rabbit

Failure to exercise your pet will lead him/her to develop obesity, lethargy, and weak muscles. Dogs and cats need to run and play. Even critters such as hamsters need to run their wheel and guinea pigs need to move and hop about.