Being a dog owner is really a joy. It guarantees years of enjoyment and companionship to owner and dog alike. But it’s also a heavy responsibility and a long-term devotion. Below are eight ideas on how best to care for this “friend” to which you have made such a commitment. 

1. Keep Up-to-date on Rabies and Other Vaccinations

This is critical to your dog’s well-being. Rabies remains a threat for our pets. Each summer brings reports of findings of rabid bats or other wild animals. Rabies is especially prevalent if you live on acreage or in a wooded area more inhabited by wild animals.

Owners have the option of having a one year or even a two-year rabies shot — or, if they are worried about the side effects of rabies taken another option is to get their dog a titer test, a blood test that indicates if the creature’s previous vaccine remains active or satisfactorily protecting him. This prevents the owner from having to receive a vaccine before it’s necessary. Heartworm also is a very real danger to your pet and may be prevented by a heartworm pill.

2. Regular Vet Check-Ups

This is sometimes combined along with your dog’s vaccination appointment. A checkup will assist the vet to identify some issues while they are still in the early phases if it is a tumor or fleas. Looking for pet surgery? Click this link to find out more.

3. Healthy Diet

This isn’t to be dismissed lightly as we hear so often about dog foods that have melamine or are somehow contaminated. Many dog foods aren’t nutritionally balanced and fillers such as ground corn and other grains are inserted simply for volume. The main ingredient in your pet’s food ought to be meat.

4. Proper Training

A well-trained dog is a happy dog. He understands what is due to him. He doesn’t annoy guests with a display of bad manners or repel them by jumping on them or slobbering on them. Good obedience training keeps him safe.

5. Socialization

Thus, go to the dog park, go to dog events, walk him in your neighborhood and let him visit with his or her neighbors. It’ll make him a sure

6. Grooming

Grooming is essential to your pet’s health. If he’s his or her nails need trimming, he’s uncomfortable. He will be constantly chewing on himself and panting from agitation. Also, a fantastic groomer that grooms your dog regularly is going to detect abnormalities or signs of illness or distress. If caught early these discoveries do not have to equate to a death sentence.

7. Exercise Your Dog

He will sleep well when it’s bedtime and not be agitated and excitable. Exercise is also good for his overall health.

8. Obey the Leash Laws

They’re for your pet’s protection. His coaching will let him walk with you and obey your orders.

These are only a few of many tips to assist you to make sure that you have a happy, healthy dog and with impeccable manners! Follow them and you’ll be exemplary as a dog owner.

Physical Examinations

An annual physical exam is a vital element of preventive healthcare for all pets.

Conducting an annual physical examination allows us to monitor your pet’s health and diagnose any possible illnesses or conditions. By bringing your pet to regular examinations, you allow us to identify and treat developing issues early before they get serious.

During the exam, we’ll also ask questions regarding your pet’s lifestyle, fitness, activity levels, and nutrition so we can create a care plan that fulfills their needs.

Blue Mountain Veterinary Hospital believes in prevention first. Physical exams, vaccinations, and parasite prevention are at the core of your pet’s long-term health and wellbeing. Visit our website bluemountainvet.ca for more information.