Essential Tips for Keeping Your Pet Healthy

Prioritize Preventive Care for Your Pet

Staying on top of preventive care like annual vet checkups and monthly heartworm, flea, and tick treatments is a key part of being a responsible pet owner. Vaccines are especially important, protecting your dog or cat from serious, potentially deadly diseases even if they live indoors.

Many illnesses are airborne or can linger in the environment, so prevention is crucial. As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”, and it’s usually far more affordable, too. A healthy pet truly is a happy pet!

Fixing Is Caring: Spay or Neuter Your Pet

Spaying or neutering your pet is a key part of preventive health care. It can lower the risk of certain cancers and help reduce unwanted behaviors like roaming and marking, especially in male pets. It also plays a vital role in controlling pet overpopulation and reducing the number of homeless animals.

In fact, spaying or neutering is required by law in Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Clark County, and Henderson. It’s a simple step that supports your pet’s health and your community.

Keep Your Pet’s Teeth Clean and Healthy

Just like people, pets need good dental care to prevent bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay, and to keep their teeth healthy as they age. Dental issues like cracked teeth or infections often go unnoticed by owners, which is why yearly dental checkups and cleanings are essential.

To protect your pet’s teeth, choose soft toys and treats that won’t cause damage. Preventive care can help you avoid costly procedures like tooth extractions down the road. While vets now recommend brushing your pet’s teeth daily, even doing it a few times a week or using dental products can make a big difference especially if brushing is a challenge.

Prioritize Daily Playtime for Your Pet

Don’t let a busy schedule keep you from making time to play with your pet! Play isn’t just for puppies and kittens it’s essential for adult cats and dogs too, and it’s a great stress reliever for you as well. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity, so try teaching your dog a new trick or engaging in more structured activities like agility or obedience training.

You can also challenge your pet’s brain with puzzle toys or turn everyday items into games, like playing hide-and-seek with their favorite toy or treats. A few minutes of play each day can make a big difference in your pet’s happiness and well-being.