As we move into the New Year, it is a perfect time for resolutions and looking at the year as a whole. Just as for ourselves, and the goals we may set, the New Year provides a moment to pause and consider how we can plan for our pet’s health and wellness for the next twelve months. Here are some steps you can take to help your pet have a healthy year ahead!
Wellness Checks
During wellness visits, we will check for any potential health issues, conduct a parasite screening, perform a physical exam, and discuss any concerns you may have about your pet’s health. Not only do these exams help to identify illness, but they establish a baseline of health to compare with future examinations.
These visits can also be a good time to ask us about behavioral concerns that you may be seeing in your pet. We can assist with getting to the root cause behind those behaviors, and help develop a plan to resolve them.
Dental Exams & Professional Dental Cleaning
Dental care is essential for all pets, just as it is for people. Poor dental health can lead to a host of oral diseases including periodontal disease and tooth decay, and eventually even cause damage to pets’ internal organs, such as their kidneys and heart. Regular brushing at home and professional dental cleaning from your veterinary team can help prevent these problems from developing.
Vaccinations
Vaccines are an important part of keeping our pets healthy and safe from contagious diseases such as rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and many others. Vaccines are tailored to each pet based on age, breed, lifestyle factors such as indoor/outdoor status, travel plans, etc., and local ordinances which may require specific vaccinations. The best way to determine which vaccines are best for your pet is to consult with us and we will be able to provide personalized advice based on your pet’s unique needs.
Parasite Prevention
Parasites such as fleas and ticks can cause serious harm to both humans and pets. Fortunately, there are several methods available for preventing parasites including topical treatments, chewable tablets, or even injections. It’s important to consult with us before using any parasite prevention products as some may not be appropriate for use in all cases (e.g., puppies under 8 weeks old).
Physical Activity & Mental Enrichment
Exercise helps keep our pets healthy both physically and mentally! Activity levels vary greatly between species and breeds so pet owners need to consider what activity level is appropriate for each dog or cat. In addition to physical activity such as walking or playing fetch/chase games with toys, mental enrichment activities like hide-and-seek with treats or food puzzles can help engage their minds in positive ways, too.
If you have a senior pet or a pet with health conditions, ask us about specific physical and mental activities that may be appropriate for them.
Nutrition
All of us have likely heard the adage, “You are what you eat”, and this applies to our pets, as well. A diet rich in nutrients is essential to overall health. We can help you choose the right food for your pet’s specific life stage, activity level, and health status. Pet owners are targeted by constant marketing for various diets and brands of food on TV, social media, and the Internet. We are here to help you sort through the options and make informed decisions about your pet’s specific nutritional needs.
Spending Time Together
Last, but certainly not least; spending quality time together with our pets should always be part of our routine. Whether it’s taking them out on walks around the neighborhood or just sitting down together while they curl up beside us; actively engaging with our pets helps create a bond that strengthens over time – something invaluable and a gift to both.
Happy New Year! Thank you for choosing our veterinary team to be here with you each step of the way to help your pet have a happy and healthy start to 2023!