Take a few moments to look at how making few small changes can improve your dog’s health and happiness and also improve your relationship with your dog. The start of the new year can also be a sign for a fresh start for dogs who are needing a change in their daily routine. Below are some ideas to make your dog happier and healthier this new year!
Make a commitment to regularly take your dog for a walk. Although most dogs will never say no to a walk even if it’s the same old stroll, dogs also crave for new scents and sounds, just as much as we enjoy new scenery. Plan new routes; go to unfamiliar trails, explore new neighborhood and parks. If there’s a dog-friendly hiking spots in your area, venture to somewhere new once a month. Making this kind of commitment can increase both the physical and mental health of your dog.
Grooming your dog should be done every day. Dogs feel better when they feel clean and fresh. A quick daily face-grooming session can help minimize tear staining caused by epiphora, which technically means excessive tear production. Brushing your pet also serves many purposes. Brushing helps distribute oils from the skin to fur, keeping your dog’s coat shiny and healthy. It also removes excess fur from your dog’s coat and reduced the amount of fur you can find on your clothes and furniture. Daily tooth brushing is also one of the best way to keep tartar and plaque at bay. Daily grooming is also a great bonding activity for you and your dog, it demonstrates to your dog just how much you love them by taking care of them in a very soothing manner.
Provide your dog a better nutrition. This is a big task for most dog owners but even a few simple steps can make a big difference to your dog’s overall health. You can try a higher quality dog food suitable for your dog’s age and activity, or add vegetables to your dog’s diet or just simple commit to always measuring your dog’s food every meal to make sure that you will not overfeed or underfeed your dog.
Commercial dog foods are formulated to give dogs all the nutrients they require. Feeding table scraps, however, can cause serious problem on your dog’s health. Many health issues are associated with feeding table scraps so it’s better to avoid them. Give your dog natural dog treats instead of table scraps. Not only your dog will love you for that but quality dog treats that are made with wholesome ingredients; top quality sources of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are a healthy complement to your dog's diet and can make a big difference in your dog's health.
Keeping your dog’s brain active can actually make it healthier. Teach your pet new tricks and keep practicing those they already know are a great way to keep their mind stimulated and sharp.
Make a consult with your dog’s veterinarian about a dental cleaning or about brushing at home. Dental care can improve your dog’s overall health and can make your dog’s breath more pleasant too.
Pets are family so it’s only fair that we have medical emergency plans for them too. Whether it’s putting aside a little in savings every month or getting a pet insurance, the peace of mind knowing that you’ve got it covered in the event of an emergency is very worth it.
It is important to make time for your dog to socialize with other paw friends. Whether it is going to a dog park or arranging play dates with friends to play in the backyard. Socializing can tremendously help with your dog’s mental and physical health.
