You’ve just welcomed a dog into your home and now you are wondering how to best care for your new furry friend.
First off, congratulations on your adoption choice! Being a dog owner gives you many physical and mental health benefits. These include less risk of anxiety, depression, heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels. Having a pet also increases mood, memory, sleep, libido, and appetite. With all the benefits your canine friend will be giving you, you will want to make sure you are giving them a healthy happy life.
Dog Care Tips
Licensing – Follow your local licensing regulations. Make sure your dog has a collar with their license and your contact information. Many owners choose to have a microchip implanted in their pet so if they get lost it will be more likely they are returned safe.
Provide a safe clean environment – Your dog should have shelter from bad weather in a clean safe location. When kept indoors a dog needs a quiet place to rest such as a crate or dog bed. If your dog is outside much of the time make sure they have a place that is shady when hot, warm when cold, as well as dry and covered.
Offer a good diet – Provide your furry friend with canine food and treats, instead of table scraps. To avoid obesity visit with your veterinarian to determine the amount of food your dog should be eating. The recommendation will be based on the needs of the dog breed, size, age, and level of activity.
Get a veterinarian on your team – A good veterinarian can fill you in on needed vaccinations and parasite control while also being on call in case your pet gets hurt or sick. They are an important part of your team in keeping your dog healthy.
Exercise, exercise, exercise – When getting regular exercise your dog will be happier and more fit… and so will you! Keep your dog on leash when walking unless you are in a secure fenced location.
Keep the water bowl full – Constant access to fresh water is important for a dog’s health and energy.
Offer training – To train your dog with desired behaviors practice patience, compassion, and consistency. There are many helpful manuals, classes, or training programs to assist.
Remember dental care – Dogs, just like people, can develop dental issues. It is common for many dog breeds to develop gum disease which can lead to tooth loss and infections. It is recommended that you brush your dog’s teeth with dog-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste. There are also treats and toys that can assist with canine dental care.
Grooming & nail trimming – Help your pet with their grooming needs. Long coated dogs need help preventing mats. Brushing should be frequent but baths can be few. Most dogs don’t need more than a few baths a year. Careful nail trimming prevents painful overgrown nails. Keep an eye out for fleas and ticks.
Quality time – Your new friend craves your attention and prefers to be a member of the family. Taking time consistently to communicate with your pet will assist with bonding and prevent behavioral problems. Have a good relationship with your pet will also help you know when your pet is not feeling well.
Watch for health issues – There are many health issues that can affect your furry pal. One common one to watch for is joint aches and pain. Some common signs that indicate joint care is needed include reluctance to go on walks, pain, loss of appetite, swelling, and difficulty moving. Even before symptoms become obvious your pet may be experiencing deteriorating cartilage in their joints. If concerned, visit with your veterinarian for suggestions.
Many veterinarians recommend the common supplement, glucosamine, to provide prevention and relief from joint aches and pains. Glucosamine is often made from the shells of shrimp, crab, and lobster and many pets experience shellfish allergies. ENP’s shellfish-free Glucosamine Plus comes in liquid form, perfect for better digestion and absorption. It also includes turmeric – a natural ingredient with added antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Summary
The decision to adopt a dog will bring many mental and physical health benefits. As a dog owner it is up to you to provide a healthy and happy life for your new canine friend. Follow the suggested tips to give the best care to your furry pal.
Sources
Dog Care 101: How to Take Care of Dogs In Your Home. (2019, July 31). Retrieved from https://www.peta.org/living/animal-companions/caring-dogs/
General Dog Care. (n.d.). Retrieved October 19, 2020, from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/general-dog-care
Joint Care for Pets. (2020, July 14). Retrieved from https://effectivenaturalproducts.com/blogs/healthy-living/joint-care-for-pets
Ollila, E. (2018, May 18). How Proper Dog Oral Care Leads to Healthy Dog Teeth: Hill's Pet. Retrieved from https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/healthcare/dog-oral-care-and-brushing-teeth
Joint Care for Pets. (2020, July 14). Retrieved from https://effectivenaturalproducts.com/blogs/healthy-living/joint-care-for-pets
Ten Tips for Taking Care of Your Dog – Iditarod. (2020, May 1). Retrieved from https://iditarod.com/ten-tips-for-taking-care-of-your-dog/
Why Shellfish-Free Glucosamine for Your Dog or Cat? (2019, August 28). Retrieved from https://effectivenaturalproducts.com/blogs/healthy-living/why-shellfish-free-glucosamine-for-fido