Taking regular walks and playing with your dog are just a few ways to keep your pet active and physically fit.
Another component of keeping ourselves and our pets healthy is through proper nutrition and exercise. Drinking water is necessary and important not only for us, but for our pets as well, so be sure to always have clean, fresh water for them. Feeding them the right type and amount of food is important as well and can help with health and possible weight problems. Quality brand foods or even simple homemade recipes provide your pet with most of their nutritional needs, but you may also want to check with your veterinarian to determine if they require any supplements. Just as we need to limit our treats to avoid weight gain, the same goes for our pets.
Taking regular walks and playing with your dog are just a few ways to keep your pet active and physically fit. I take my dog out for at least a half-hour walk every morning and every evening. It helps both of us to stay active and have bonding time together. It’s fun to explore new trails and parks together and it gives us both a chance to enjoy new scenery and experiences. This is also a great opportunity to get or keep your dog socialized by seeing and interacting with other dogs and people. Make sure that your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and is microchipped with current information as well as having a collar and tag with contact information before heading out, just in case! Your pet being microchipped is one of the best ways to ensure a happy reunion should it get lost.
Just as we need to exercise our bodies, we need to provide ourselves and our pets with mental stimulation too! Having safe toys to play with will keep both dogs and cats interested and interacting with you. I hide treats in different places in my apartment so that my dog has to use her brain and senses to find them and be rewarded. Cats always enjoy trying to catch that red dot from the laser pointer and it keeps them stimulated, active and healthy for a good amount of time! I wonder if one day they will ever catch that red dot. (I’ll never let mine!)
Another thing that’s important to both humans and pets is proper grooming. Who doesn’t love a good manicure? Your pet’s nails deserve the same attention, with regular trims so they don’t grow too long and become uncomfortable. And who doesn’t love having their hair brushed? I use my time cuddling with them on the couch to brush both my cats’ and the dog’s fur, as I find they are more relaxed at that time and seem to enjoy it more. A nice bath for your pooch once a week during the summer is good for them and it gives you a chance to check for ticks, which are very active this time of year.
It is especially important to spay or neuter your pets, not only to prevent overpopulation, but also for their health. Spaying or neutering can help prevent certain diseases and cancers, cut down on many aggressive behaviors and even extend their life.
Finally, a huge part of staying healthy is through having a strong emotional bond. Strengthening the emotional connection with your pet helps with interactions with other people and animals as it trusts that you are there to take care of it, especially in unknown situations. Showing pets some love with belly rubs, playing, petting and cuddles together is not only good for them, but it will also improve your mood and extend the bond you have. No matter how bad your day may be or how bad you may feel, spending some quality time with your pets will make everything better. Even just sitting together with them on your lap as you pet them is emotionally soothing for you and for them.
Yavapai Humane Society wishes you and your furry family members a healthy summer filled with tail waggin’ good times together. QCBN
By Loree Walden
Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.
By Loree Walden
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