Wouldn't be nice if you could communicate with your dog and they could tell you whether they are happy, sad or in pain?!
Unfortunately our dogs can't talk to let us know how they are feeling but we can take simple steps to ensure that they are happy and healthy.
Here are 10 important tasks to do that will help keep your pup taken care of:
PROVIDE A SAFE AND CLEAN LIVING ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR DOG. Shelter from the elements and hazards, as well as good hygiene, are basic to a dogs quality life.
ALWAYS HAVE FRESH WATER AVAILABLE. Maintaining optimal hydration is important for your dog's health and energy.
MAINTAIN A QUALITY DIET FOR YOUR DOG. There are many different food types and brands available for your pup but it is important to remember to follow the dietary recommendations on the food bags or that your veterinarian makes. The nutritional needs of your dog are all based on size, age, level of activity and breed. It's important to also remember to provide healthy treats rather than table scraps, as rewards.
TAKE YOUR PUP TO THE VET OFTEN. Your veterinarian will provide you with the information on vaccination schedules, deworming and external parasite control. Keep a copy of your pet’s vaccination records in your home and with you when you take your pet to travel. It is important to have these documents on hand if anything goes wrong while on vacation or at home. Contact your veterinarian if you believe that your pet may be ill, injured, or if something just doesn’t seem right.
EXERCISE. Although diet is very important for your dogs health it is equally important to make sure they get ample exercise to stay fit and healthy. Exercise can be as simple as playing fetch daily or taking your furry friend along on a run/walk with you.
COMMUNICATE. Dogs are very social creatures and they need to interact with their owner. Quality time will help you get to know your dog and understand particular needs that it might have, as well enhance your ability to recognize early signs of an illness that could be developing.
TRAIN YOUR DOG TO FOLLOW THE SIMPLE COMMANDS. Puppy and dog training classes can be very helpful. The better your dog is at following basic and necessary commands, the greater the chances are that your dog will live a safe and long life.
PRACTICE REPRODUCTIVE CONTROL. If you do not intend to create puppies, spaying or neutering is an option. If you plan to breed your dog or are opposed to spaying and neutering for other reasons, take appropriate measures to prevent mismatings. Consult with your veterinarian in regard to other options that are available.
TAKE CARE OF THEIR TEETH. Many dog breeds are prone to gum disease, which can have serious implications. Infection resulting from this condition leads to premature tooth loss, and can commonly cause infections in major organs, including the heart valves.
DON’T OVERLOOK GROOMING AND NAIL TRIMMING. Long coated dogs are prone to developing matts and ice balls in their hair. Overgrown nails are common in elderly dogs and can make it more difficult for them to walk. In addition, such nails are much more prone to breaking, which can be quite painful.
