Are you doing everything you should be doing to keep your pet happy and safe? Check out the tips below to make sure you are providing the most loving environment your pet could possibly ask for…
Be prepared
Preparation for emergency situations is only the beginning. You should also prepare for trips, holidays, new babies, new furry friends...you name it, there’s a reason to be prepared for it - especially where our four-legged friends are concerned.
Schedule an annual vet visit
Your pet can't tell you when he doesn’t feel well, and most pets are masters at hiding their ailments. Your pets rely on you to schedule regular veterinary checkups to ensure they are feeling their very best. During this visit, your veterinarian can also let you know if a dental cleaning is needed, or if the at-home preventative dental care for your pet is doing the trick! PetPartners has you covered in many areas such as annual testing, vaccinations, and dental cleanings, with their Wellness Care and Prevention Plans.
Protect against potential pet hazards
Before bringing home a pet, you should plan to pet proof your home. You probably already know that chocolate is poisonous to your dog, but did you know that xylitol (an ingredient found in sugar-free gum and toothpaste) is also an extremely toxic food to pets? Dogs and and cats are curious by nature, so it is important to be educated about the dangers of houseplants and consider eco-friendly cleaning products.
Spay/neuter your pet
Spaying or neutering your dog or cat removes the chance of unwanted puppies or kittens and can prevent serious health problems. PetPartners offers plans to help offset the cost of this procedure. The Defender Plus Plan allows for a choice of spaying or neutering or a dental cleaning per year.
Take an obedience class
Teaching your dog to obey is helpful for many reasons. It ensures your pet’s safety (and your own), and it strengthens your relationship and communication between you and your pet. Still not sure if you need to incorporate obedience into your pet's life? Here are five reasons why you should train your dog.
Make your pet part of the family
Pets need companionship and a warm, safe, and loving environment in order to thrive. Dogs are traditionally pack animals and are happiest when welcomed into their family’s home with open arms. Make sure you're able to give your pet quality time every day to help them feel loved.
Exercise
Exercise provides an outlet for your pet’s energy, aids in training, and improves the quality of life for you and your pet. There are many reasons to take your pup for a walk, and who wouldn't want to spend a sunny day outdoors with your dog!
Take time to ask yourself...
How can I be a better fur mom or dad? That’s what it takes to be a PAWSOME pet parent! I think I’ll start with loving on my dog a little more--she is part of our family and she should feel like it!