Daily Pet Care Tips

Tips to Keep Your Pets in Good Health

Welcome to a world where every wag of a tail and every purr of contentment is a testament to the love and care we give to our beloved pets. As veterinarian specialists and pet parents ourselves, we understand the joy and responsibility that comes with nurturing our furkids. In this article, we'll go through essential daily pet care tips designed to maintain your pet's well-being. From holistic nutrition to enriching activities, let's dive into the world of pet care and ensure our pets thrive each day.

Our pets cannot tell us what they need, and more often than not, we tend to fall back on a low-fuss daily routine to make sure their basic needs are met. I did that with my little dog. She was my world, my child. I saw to it that she ate good organic food, got her walks three times a day - when she sniffed every patch of our walk path for mental stimulation, got fuss and cuddles, enjoyed playtime with tug of war and chasing one another around the house, and watching TV together. To me, it was all good. To me, that was good pet parenting. Unfortunately, I was only half way there.

What I should have done for her daily care was to make sure she had good gut health, started her on integrative veterinary care earlier (rather than going to a solely standard veterinary clinic) instead of exploring deeper only after she had a stroke and lost her eyesight, made sure she had wellness checks once a year at least — and asked Dr. Bhatt what I needed to do daily so I could make sure my dog’s health was maintained and optimized in-between her appointments. I blame lack of knowledge.

Awareness and Education

Many pet parents have a mindset that we should take our dogs and cats to the vet only when they show bad symptoms of sickness, mainly because vets are expensive. That’s just not right thinking, because they depend on us to care for them, and they do not show us the true extent of their suffering until they can’t anymore and by then, it’s usually pretty bad. If we can afford cute pet outfits, Starbucks, organic food, expensive holidays, Amazon on a daily basis, entertainment - we can also afford to put aside an emergency fund for our precious pets as pet parents, or get the recommended pet health insurance, at the very least.

Now that we’ve established that regular visits to the veterinarian are crucial, daily care at home plays a significant role in maintaining our pets' well-being in-between wellness checks. I thought I’d put together this set of guidelines. We’ll explore ten daily pet care tips tailored to keep your beloved dogs and cats thriving between veterinary appointments with some holistic suggestions.

1. Balanced Nutrition:

A nutritious diet is the foundation of good health for our pets. Opt for high-quality pet food - or home cooked food if budget is an issue - that meets their specific dietary needs. Consult with Dr. Bhatt for personalized recommendations based on factors like age, breed, and any existing health conditions.

When it comes to pet nutrition, variety is key. Consider rotating between different types of protein sources and incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables into their diet. Supplements such as fish oil or probiotics can also provide additional health benefits.

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2. Regular Exercise:

Just like us, our dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Make it a habit to engage in physical activities with your dog, such as brisk walks, interactive play sessions, or even agility training. Exercise not only keeps them fit but also provides mental stimulation. One thing to mention is to please be careful around lawns in your neighborhoods - pesticides are a hazard. In the winter, be careful of anti-freeze and salt - which are both harmful. Washing paws after is highly recommended.

I will say, walk time was my favorite thing to do with my little dog, we explored way beyond our neighborhood and made so many friends along the way. It was also beneficial to me because I got my daily exercise. When she got tired, I would carry her - which kept my arms strong too! We did a 30 minute walk around 2 - 3 times a day, if I could manage it based on my schedule. She loved it!

In addition to daily walks, consider incorporating other forms of exercise into your dog’s routine, such as swimming or hiking. These activities not only provide physical benefits but also allow your dog to explore new environments and stimulate their senses. If not possible, perhaps a small home obstacle course will do the job!

3. Dental Care:

Don't overlook the importance of dental health in your dog and cat’s daily routine. Brush their teeth regularly using pet-safe toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Consider providing dental treats or toys to promote oral hygiene and prevent tartar buildup.

In addition to brushing, consider adding dental chews or water additives to your pet's routine to help maintain their oral health. Ask Dr. Bhatt for her recommendations because not all dental chews are good. Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Bhatt can also catch any potential issues early on.

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4. Mental Stimulation:

Keeping our pets mentally stimulated is key to preventing boredom and behavioral issues. Incorporate activities that challenge their minds, such as puzzle toys, interactive games, or training sessions. Mental stimulation is essential for their overall well-being.

Incorporating training sessions into your pet's daily routine not only provides mental stimulation but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet. Consider teaching them new tricks or commands to keep their minds engaged.

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5. Grooming Routine:

Maintaining a regular grooming routine is essential for your pet's hygiene and comfort. Depending on their breed and coat type, grooming needs may vary. Establish a grooming schedule that includes brushing, bathing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning using gentle, pet-friendly products.

Regular grooming not only keeps your pet looking and feeling their best but also helps prevent skin issues and matting. Be sure to use products specifically designed for pets and avoid any harsh chemicals that could irritate their skin.

If you’ve got a dog or cat who hates grooming, research ways to make it a positive experience for them. Some people find it cute or funny when a dog slinks down and hides at the very mention of bath time. To me, that just shows that the dog is stressed. Instead, it can be a great and positive experience for them with positive reinforcement. Ask Dr. Bhatt about behavioral adjustments and helping your pet avoid stress. It will make a world of difference for your pet and you.

6. Preventive Healthcare:

Stay proactive about your pet's healthcare by scheduling regular check-ups. Keep vaccinations and parasite prevention treatments up-to-date. Explore holistic approaches, such as acupuncture or herbal remedies, to complement traditional veterinary care.

A general rule of thumb for your traditional wellness checks, neutering/spaying, dental and so on. 

In addition to regular veterinary visits, consider incorporating preventive measures into your pet's daily routine. This includes regular flea and tick prevention, heartworm medication, and keeping their vaccinations current. We are an integrative veterinary clinic and use only what is necessary. There are essential vaccinations that will benefit your pet, and some are even required by law. Discuss your pet’s requirements with Dr. Bhatt.

Integrative care is more intricate. For example, if your dog is getting acupuncture treatments, then for general supportive care cases we recommend acupuncture every 3 months; or in cancer cases we recommend acupuncture on a monthly basis after the initial acupuncture series is complete. 

Ask our team about your pet's customized wellness plan for optimal care based on his or her specific needs. We know time and budget are considerations, let's work together to keep your dog in the best of health through his or her lifetime with the right plan 

7. Environmental Enrichment:

Create a stimulating environment for your pets by providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and play. Set up indoor and outdoor spaces with toys, scratching posts, and hiding spots to keep them engaged. Incorporate natural elements like plants for sensory stimulation.

To enhance your pet's environment, consider rotating their toys regularly to keep things interesting. Introduce new toys, puzzles, or interactive feeders to provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom.

8. Bonding Time:

Make time for quality bonding experiences with your pets each day. Whether it's cuddling on the couch, playing fetch, or going for a walk together, nurturing your relationship strengthens the bond between you and your pets.

In addition to physical activities, consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as massage or gentle grooming sessions into your bonding time. These activities not only help you connect with your pet but also provide physical and emotional benefits for both of you.

9. Stress Management:

Pets can experience stress and anxiety, so it's important to create a calm and safe environment for them. Use techniques like aromatherapy (ask Dr. Bhatt to recommend safe products) and calming music to alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation during times of change or upheaval.

If your pet experiences anxiety during certain situations, such as thunderstorms or fireworks, consider providing a safe space for them to retreat to. This could be a quiet room with their favorite toys, blankets, and comforting scents.

10. Monitor Health Signs:

Stay vigilant about monitoring your pet's health and be on the lookout for any changes in behavior or physical appearance. You can also keep a journal or use a pet health app to track their daily activities and symptoms. Early detection of health issues allows for prompt intervention and better treatment outcomes.

In addition to physical symptoms, pay attention to any changes in your pet's behavior or routine. This could include changes in appetite, energy level, or social interaction. Trust your instincts and don't hesitate to consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Incorporating these daily pet care tips into your routine will help ensure that your furry friends remain happy, healthy, and thriving between veterinary appointments. Remember, the love and attention you give your pets contribute to a lifetime of companionship and well-being.

BONUS TIP: RELAX

You absolutely need to take care of yourself too. Once you have the right information and plan in place, your routine is that much more enriched for the sake of your pet and you. You can relax knowing that you are following the right path to doing everything you can to give your pet a long, healthy, and happy life. Talk to Dr. Bhatt and our team during your next visit to plan out the best at-home wellness care plan you can manage in between appointments.

We love to #IntegrateEducateCommunicateHeal because we strongly believe that prevention is better than cure. ❤️