Pawjourr: Pet Wellness Month

October marks a significant month for pet owners all over the world. Why? Because it’s Pet Wellness Month of course! 

Our fur kids do not just deserve the best, they need it. We, humans, are able to communicate and express our emotions and well-being; when we’re sick. However, our pets can’t tell us when they’re under the weather. That’s why our goal as pet owners is to prioritize their well-being and it’s on us to ensure they stay healthy all year round — not just in October. 

Here’s a simple checklist of things to look out for to ensure your pet is the picture of health!

Exercise, exercise, exercise!

Like humans, the key to living a long and healthy life is exercise. All dogs should, at the minimum, go for a walk or two every day, keeping in mind the limits for puppies. Get your cats active by playing with them in short but frequent sessions.

You may also supplement with a jog, hike, swim, and even canine conditioning if your pup is ready for it. Keeping active will help develop muscles that support their joints!

Keep them occupied

It doesn’t take long for your pets to get bored, and boredom leads to different problems. Play with them, even if it’s just five minutes. Fight the boredom by giving them activities to partake in — and one healthy way is through toys.

Pets benefit from mentally stimulating activities, like chew-toys and puzzle toys with hidden treats. So, hide their toys and let them go on a treasure hunt. 

Dogs love tug of war. It is a great display of their predatory nature and it provides mental and physical exercise for them. Cats on the other hand get bored very easily. Hence, you need to understand your feline’s needs. You can get them a scratching post to help them ‘blow off some steam’ or release their excitement. Be sure to find the right one!

Keep an eye on your pet’s weight

Just like us, pets can face a number of health issues if they become too heavy. Obesity among pets has been on the rise with pet owners oblivious to the health threats that it poses to them. 

Here’s how you can keep your pet’s weight in a healthy range:

• Feed them a diet with wholesome ingredients that meets the requirements of their size, breed, and age
• Consider providing them with a prescription diet 
• Schedule appointments to the vet regularly for check-up
• Give them treats sparingly
• Plenty of exercise

Schedule regular health appointments

Our pets age faster than we do, meaning changes in their health can occur quickly. Scheduling wellness check-ups often is the best way to keep them free from illnesses.

With a trip to the vet, you can seek medical advice regarding your pet’s health. This would often lead to certain changes in their routine, be it exercise or diet, which can prevent potential health problems. 

Additionally, a trip to the vet can also increase your pet’s chance of survival as early detection can lead to early treatment. Veterinarians would recommend a trip at least once a year.

Don’t forget about dental health

Often overlooked, dental health is just as important for pets as it is for humans. Periodontal disease can occur when plaque build-up on your pets’ teeth leads to infection in the gums and bone loss. This infection can cause pain, tooth loss, and internal organ damage if left untreated.

Luckily, there are ways to prevent it. Regular dental exams can help veterinarians detect and treat dental issues before they become irreversible. At-home dental care consists of daily brushing. You can also complement brushing with a special diet, water additives or sealants.

Prioritizing their health

There are many ways to show our pets that we care. By taking steps to promote their physical and mental health all year long, we can help keep them happy and healthy throughout their lives. 

Pet Wellness Month may be celebrated in October, but always remember that it’s a lifelong commitment that should be promoted all year long!