As a pet owner, ensuring your pet’s health is in prime condition requires attention to their diet, exercise, environment, and regular veterinary care. We sat down with Joshua Adkins and Dr. Zachary Croslin of the Veterinary Emergency Group to discuss proactive measures that you can take to keep your furry friends happy and healthy.
Just like human health, nutrition is the foundation for the longevity of your pet’s health and it begins with prioritizing a well-balanced diet. “For dogs, this typically means sticking to veterinarian-approved foods. While there is the debate about kibble, trusting the advice of your vet can ensure that your pet receives the necessary nutrients without the risk associated with some commercial foods,” Dr. Croslin advises. Dr. Croslin also touched on the benefits of vitamins for your pets and contrary to popular belief, vitamins are usually not necessary if your pet is already on a balanced diet. “The key is to avoid excessive treats or human food like bacon scraps. Just as with humans, maintaining a healthy weight through proper nutrition and regular exercise is crucial if you want your pet to live happy and healthy,” Dr. Croslin adds.
Along with nutrition, exercise is essential, but please remember how seasonal weather conditions may affect your pet’s well-being. For example, during summer, you should plan walks early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the heat. For added paw protection while walking your dog on hot asphalt, consider having them wear boots, such as those from Ruffwear. These can prevent injuries from hot surfaces or rough terrain.
Many veterinary visits result from pets ingesting something they shouldn't have; such as synthetic materials from toys or medication. To stay on top of environmental risk a pet owner, Dr. Croslin suggests regularly inspecting toys for durability and safety, and always storing medications securely out of reach, as animals are naturally curious.
Regular dental care is often overlooked but is crucial for your pet's overall health. Ideally, you should brush your dog's teeth daily, though this can be challenging. Dental chews are a practical alternative to help reduce tartar buildup but consult your vet for advice on this and consider regular professional dental cleanings, which typically require anesthesia.
From a medication standpoint; monthly heartworm, flea, and tick preventatives are especially important in regions like the South, where mosquitoes and other pests are prevalent. These medications can be lifesaving, as heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes and can be detrimental to your pet’s health.
Lastly, staying alert to changes in your pet's behavior can help you spot health issues early. Common signs of fatigue and dehydration include lethargy, discomfort, and unresponsiveness. If your pet shows these symptoms despite having access to water, it could indicate an underlying problem that needs veterinary attention.
Being cautious of your pet’s health can keep you from frequent emergency room visits and ensure a long, happy, and healthy life for your fur pal. If you have a medical emergency or would like to speak with the team about a potential medical emergency for your pet, please visit: 1975 N Central Expy, Allen, TX 75013 or online at veterinaryemergencygroup.com.
"Just as with humans, maintaining a healthy weight through proper nutrition and regular exercise is crucial if you want your pet to live happy and healthy” states Dr. Croslin.