We all want the best for our furry family members, as pet owners. Every pet parent wants to know that their pets are getting everything they need to be happy and healthy. Today, our Liberty Lake vets will provide you with a checklist of responsible pet ownership.
1. Take Time to Train Your Dog
Not only does obedience training teach your dog good manners, but it also keeps your dog happy, healthy, and safe. Positive reinforcement dog training is also a fun and enriching activity for dogs, as well as a way to keep their brains active. Positive reinforcement training involves rewarding your dog with treats when he or she performs the desired behavior.
2. Have Some Playtime
Playing with your pet helps to build and strengthen your relationship. However, you must ascertain what gets your pet moving because not all pets take to all forms of play. This implies that you'll have to experiment with different cat or dog toys before you find one they like.
3. Take Your Dog on Daily Walks
Dog walks, in particular for dog owners, are a crucial component of your dog's exercise and socialization schedule. You must plan your dog's daily walks as a responsible pet owner. Keep in mind the significance of using a dog leash when taking your dog for walks outside. Ensure that your dog is trained to come back to you and respond to cues if he manages to escape from you.
4. Clean Up After Your Pet
To clean up any mess your dog makes on the sidewalk or a neighbor's lawn, always carry dog poop bags with you when you take your dog for a walk. Numerous dispensers for dog waste bags are available that you can fasten to your dog's leash. It's a pet parent's duty to clean up after their dog because it keeps the walkways clean and helps to stop the spread of disease. Clean the litter box every day if you have cats.
5. Groom Your Pet
Never clean your pet's ears with cotton swabs. It's always a good idea to have your veterinarian demonstrate the proper technique before attempting it at home. Your pet's coat and routine activities determine how frequently you bathe them. Contact a groomer or your veterinarian if your pet dislikes having their nails clipped; they are always willing to assist.
6. Microchip Your Pet
You should take every precaution as a pet owner to ensure that your pet is easily identified. From ID tags on their collars to GPS tracking equipment, you can help to ensure your pet never goes missing. If your dog or cat isn't already microchipped, you should get it done as soon as possible.
7. Take Them For Routine Checkups
As the owner, you are responsible for your pet's health, which includes regular veterinary care. Veterinarians will be able to prevent disease and treat problems as they arise if you bring your pet for regular veterinary visits. Depending on their age and lifestyle, adult pets may require yearly vaccinations in addition to regular physical exams. Adult pets may also require yearly vaccinations depending on your location, health concerns, disease risk, or travel plans.
8. Make Sure You Keep Up With Dental Care
Regularly brushing of your pet's teeth and gums can help keep them healthy. Use dog dental chews or cat dental treats between brushings to help fight dental disease. Annual dental cleanings with your veterinarian are essential for their overall health too.
The Convenience of Wellness Plans
Pet Wellness Plans combine all of the preventive services, including those listed above, that keep your pet healthy throughout the year into a simple monthly payment plan, allowing you to save money and better manage your budget. At Legacy Animal Medical Center, our wellness plans for dogs include:
- Bi-annual Wellness Exams
- Annual Core Vaccinations
- Intestinal Parasite Screenings
- 12 Month's Supply of Flea & Tick Prevention
- 12 Month Supply of Heartworm Prevention
And our wellness plans for cats include:
- Annual Core Vaccination
- Annual Intestinal Parasite Screenings
- Annual Wellness Exam
- 6-Month Supply of Flea & Tick Prevention