Discover why pet insurance is a crucial investment for responsible pet owners. In this article, we highlight the importance of having pet insurance, exploring how it provides financial security, access to quality veterinary care, and the peace of mind to make proactive decisions for your pet's health. Don't wait for unexpected expenses to arise – learn why pet insurance is an essential part of responsible pet ownership.
Are you wanting to adopt a new pet? If so, there are a lot of things you need to consider before making the decision of adopting a pet.
Responsible pet ownership isn't just a commitment to your furry friend; it's a journey that enhances the bond you share and contributes to their overall well-being. February, being Responsible Pet Ownership Month, is the perfect time to reassess how we care for our animal companions. In honor of our pets that give us so much, let’s explore the ten fundamental elements that are the bedrock of nurturing a healthy and happy pet. #1 Nutrition: The Foundation of Health Nutrition is not simply about satisfying your pet's hunger; it's about nourishing your pet's body with real food, not empty calories. Who is to blame when over 50% of dogs and cats in this country are overweight or obese? The pet food industry and veterinarians point to pet owners overfeeding and indulging their pets. But could the problem be that the density of calories in a cup of kibble is 5X that of minimally processed homemade or raw food? When a dog's stomach is 70% of their digestive tract, is it any surprise that they are a bottomless pit when they consume energy-dense processed kibble and never seem to be satisfied? Think about eating a large salad with vinaigrette and some chicken versus a Chick Filet sandwich. One will occupy much less space than the other, yet the other meal would not likely be filling unless it came with the waffle fries and a lemonade. Eating like this day in and day out will surely lead to overweight pets. If you knew that keeping your pet fit and trim would add two years to their life would you pay closer attention to their weight? Studies support that feeding less leads to longevity and later onset of chronic disease. If we don’t, the pharmaceutical industry has a costly solution: daily non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. It's a vicious cycle, and we have to do better for our pets. Quality whole food ingredients are the cornerstone of a healthy diet, which can improve life expectancy and vitality. It's akin to fueling your vehicle with premium gas—it just runs better. Premium gas costs more. If it's not in your budget, consider adding some homemade food to your dog's processed food. Dedicate a few hours on the weekend to prepping your pet's meals for the week. Holistic Vet Blend products make this easy, offering recipes that can be made ahead and stored for convenience. #2 Veterinary Care Keep notes on your phone of any observations or concerns regarding your pet so that you are sure to bring them to your veterinarian's attention during your visit. Regular check-ups with a trusted vet are important for so many reasons (yearly for most pets and semi-annually for seniors). Veterinary care provides professional insight into your pet's unique needs and can help catch early signs of potential health issues. Be sure to schedule these well in advance as veterinary clinics have been very busy with a scarcity of appointments. At the visit be sure to get your pet’s accurate weight and Body Condition Score (a rough measure of body fat) akin to our BMI. This is important to know so that you can make sure your pet is a healthy weight. Why is this important? A startling 90% of cats over age 12, and 40% of all cats have osteoarthrits. This translates to many cats being in pain without their guardian’s awareness. Pets and humans with a healthy weight live significantly longer. Your veterinarian can do a physical exam that can detect so many things you may not be aware of such as: -pain...this and being overweight are a horrible combination -heart murmur/disease -weight factors (loss, gain, and overall body condition) -tumors brewing in the abdomen, enlarged lymph nodes -more comprehensive eye, ear, and oral/dental exam #3 Preventive Medicine: A Stitch in Time Saves Nine Neglecting heartworm prevention in a heartworm endemic area will lead to an entirely preventable infection. Since treatment is so toxic, it's more responsible and humane to prevent it. The same goes for many tick-borne diseases. Check yourself and your pets closely after possible exposure and know the risks of tick-borne and heartworm disease wherever you travel. Most pets receiving their initial vaccination series and boosters will be immune for life, especially if they have a demonstrable titer afterward, they will more than likely have lifetime immunity. Check a stool sample for parasites, especially if you have children. Pets harboring parasites can contaminate your yard and environment. When my son was in elementary school we did a geeky science experiment where we tested coyote and dog feces in the area we walk our dogs. Half of the samples for both the coyotes and the dogs were positive for either Giardia, hookworms, or coccidia. If your dog walks in an area with parasites and comes home to groom or lick their fit, they could potentially be exposed, so don't assume that your dog would never be exposed because they would not eat another dog's feces. Spay and neuter (at the appropriate time). Discuss the best timing with your veterinarian given your pet’s size. #4 Exercise: For the Body and Mind A physically active pet is a happy pet. Exercise staves off boredom, reduces behavior problems, and keeps the weight off, promoting a healthier lifestyle and enhancing the bond between you and your pet. It also staves off cognitive decline in both dogs and humans. If you can't exercise your pet hire a dog walker or ask a local student to walk your dog for you. #5 Grooming: More Than Just Good Looks Regular grooming goes beyond aesthetics; it's about maintaining your pet's skin and coat health, checking for irregularities, and preventing matting or other discomforts. Overgrown nails can be painful and cause postural issues especially in senior dogs. Regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care are integral to your pet's well-being. Neglecting grooming can lead to discomfort and disease. Approach grooming not as a chore but as a therapeutic ritual for you and your pet. #6 Training and Enrichment: Building Blocks of Behavior Training is about communication. It develops a mutual understanding between you and your pet and establishes behavior patterns that ensure your pet's safety. Having a pet that reliably returns to you when needed can save their life. So many dogs end up in shelters because of behavioral issues that were never addressed, and proper training can eliminate and help manage so many behavioral issues. #7 Emergency Preparedness/Monetary Responsibilities Be sure to have some funds set aside for an emergency or invest in quality pet insurance to mitigate the costs of unexpected illnesses or accidents. Have a disaster kit for your pet that includes at least a two week supply of any of the medications they are on and enough food for a week. #8 Grooming Your pet's nails and coat need attention. Overgrown nails cause postural changes and are prone to tearing and causing painful injury. Grooming can be a time spent bonding with your dog if you take your time and make it a positive experience as much as possible. And there is usually a happy dance afterwards! #9 Safety from cars, coyotes, and snakes oh my! If you have coyotes in your area, do not let your dog off leash to roam, and please do not let your dog or cat outside without supervision. Do not rant on about how unfair it is to not let your cat outside if you have never seen a cat that survived an attack. It's heartbreaking. My cats like to go outside, but I go with them. If you have rattlesnakes in your area be sure to look into rattlesnake aversion training and keep your dog leashed on trails if it's that time of the year they are out. Be sure your dog has a reliable recall so that if they are off leash they would come back to you. #10 Environment In the spirit of holistic care, consider the environmental impact of pet ownership. If you've read this far I'm sure you pick up after your pet and likely prioritize biodegradable bags, and recycle whatever you can. A plug for making homemade dog food. You can decrease food waste by using carrots, parsley, spinach, and other vegetables, even blueberries that would likely go bad in your dog's food. You also decrease your pet's environmental footprint by decreasing pet food packaging waste. Conclusion Your pet relies on you as much as you adore their companionship. By following these guidelines, you can rest assured you're doing everything within your power to provide a safe, loving, and enriching environment. Whether it's choosing quality nutrition, staying up-to-date with veterinary care, or engaging in enriching activities, every step you take makes a world of difference in their lives—and enriches your shared bond in the process. Remember, being a responsible pet owner is a promise—a promise to put your pet's welfare at the forefront, day in and day out. Here's to a happy, healthy, and harmonious life with your cherished companions! 🐾 References: (1)Kerwin SC. Osteoarthritis in cats. Top Companion Anim Med. 2010 Nov;25(4):218-23. doi: 10.1053/j.tcam.2010.09.004. PMID: 21147475. (2)Enomoto M, Lascelles BDX, Gruen ME,: Development of a checklist for the detection of degenerative joint disease-associated pain in cats (2020). J Feline Medicine and Surgery. DOI: 10.1177/1098612X20907424.
Demystify pet insurance with our guide, covering what to know about pet insurance, to secure your furry friend's health and well-being.
You may be thinking that your life is missing something and that something could be a dog. Many people all over the world enjoy the companionship of these
Thinking about getting a pet? Here are six important things you should consider before making that decision.
Demystify pet insurance with our guide, covering what to know about pet insurance, to secure your furry friend's health and well-being.
When it comes to taking care of a pet, there are a variety of pet care duties you can perform routinely to ensure the health and happiness of your pet.
Will a dog come back home on his own? It depends! On what, you ask? Find out in our guide, plus get tips to ensure your furry friend doesn't pull a Houdini!
Pets are family members and being a responsible pet parent is more than just providing food and water; you also need to do the following.
Having a pet adds a lot of joy to your life, but it’s also a lot of responsibility. You certainly want to choose a pet that fits in well with your lifestyle and personality. Cats and dogs are some of the most popular furry companions, but which is the best pet for you?
Bringing home a new pet is often one of the easiest decisions to make. But becoming a pet owner is often a huge responsibility.
Find out if your child is ready for pet ownership. Learn about the responsibilities, financial readiness and how to prepare your family for a new pet!
Discover the joys of responsible pet ownership for kids and their furry friends. Learn essential tips for happy and healthy relationships. Explore now!
Bringing home your first pet can be exciting and overwhelming. Follow these tips for a smooth transition for you and your new furry friend.
Delve into the ethical considerations of pet care and our moral obligations toward animal companions.
Getting a pet is something that most people do consider at one point in their lives - especially when they start to have a family.
Are you living the life of a healthy pet owner? Learn the benefits of pet ownership and how it affects mental, physical, and social health. #pets #petowner
As a dog owner in the United States, it's your responsibility to be aware of (and abide by) any laws that pertain to your dog. Here's 8 most important ones.
Being a responsible pet owner means making sure that your pet is happy and healthy. Find out what taking care of a pet really entails.
Discover practical tips and insights on how to manage your dog's insatiable appetite. Find out why your furry friend is always hungry and learn how to keep them healthy and happy.
Prevention is better than cure, isn't it? Knowing about preventive pet health will help you minimize your pet’s risk of emergencies and disease. Learn More!
Did you grow up with a pet who taught you about unconditional love? If you want your children to have a pet and create some wonderful memories of their own, think carefully about the kind of pet that’s right for your family. Not only will your children have a companion, but they’ll also learn a lot of important life skills such as responsibility, compassion, and respect. Visit Love & Pawsitivity for shirts, tank tops, accessories, and gifts for pet lovers. View our collection today! Choosing the Perfect Pet Don’t be hasty when selecting the perfect pet for your children. Find out if your child has any pet allergies and which animals you can have that won’t aggravate their symptoms. Next, think about your schedule, and then make sure you’ll have enough time to take care of the pet you choose. Some pets, such as lizards or fish, don’t require as much time, and your child can still learn from their pet while providing them with ample care; the best pets for kids include rabbits, hamsters, turtles, and birds, The most popular pets for kids are cats and dogs, and all these animals can be fantastic pets for your children. Preparing Your Child for Pet Ownership Caring for a pet is a big responsibility, and if you want your children to look after their pet, it’s important to prepare them for pet ownership beforehand. You can start by introducing your child to a friend’s pet so they can have a chance to get comfortable around pets. Teach your children how to act around dogs and explain that it’s not nice to pull their pet’s tail or ears or hold onto them when they want to get down. You want to make sure your child will be safe around pets, so prepare them for pets by teaching them the basics before you bring home a pooch. Learning from Your Pet Having a pet is a big responsibility, and your little ones will learn a lot from having a pet. If you choose to get a dog, your children will need to remember to feed the dog every day, take him for walks, and even clean up after their favorite pooch. Make sure you set appropriate tasks for the age of your children. Younger children can do chores like refilling the water dish, while older children will be able to do more difficult tasks like cleaning the litter box. When you have a pet, your children will learn some other incredible life lessons, including trust, compassion, and loyalty. Your pet will show unconditional love to your family, and this will build social skills and self-esteem in your children. Protecting Your Pooch If you’ve never had a pet before, take some time to learn about pet health and research flea and tick collars to keep your dog safe and healthy. Not only do these collars protect your pup from insidious insects, but they will also protect your pet from the diseases they carry. Additionally, they will help keep fleas and ticks out of your home. When shopping for a flea collar for your pet, look for a collar with a long life, and make sure it’s suitable for the age and size of your pet. Purchase a collar and that is water-resistant so you won’t need to worry about it being damaged in the rain or when your dog jumps into the lake with your children. Another way to ensure your dog’s safety is constructing a fence around your property to prevent wandering and escapes. Installing a fence averages $4,500, but you can save if you use materials like wood. When searching for reputable fencing companies, only work with installers who receive positive reviews and feedback from past customers. If your children have been begging for a pet, think about all the benefits of pet ownership. Your children will learn responsibility, develop social skills faster, and be encouraged to get more exercise. Kids who grow up with pets are also less prone to allergies and get sick less often. Find the best pet for your family, and prepare your child for the responsibility of pet ownership. About the Author Her name is Jessica Brody and she's the owner of ourbestfriends.pet! Photo by Pixabay
Learn about expected pet costs, how to save on your pet expenses, keep a healthy and happy pet, and also find ways to manage your pet budget.
It would be best to consider many factors when choosing a vet, but we have compiled a list of six essential qualities to keep in mind.
Preventing obesity in your dog is your responsibility. Pet obesity has become a real problem, and our bad habits are causing this. We control what and how much our pets eat and how much exercise they get, and when they become obese, we have no one to blame but ourselves.
We're sharing our low cost, easy, DIY at-home natural remedies for common issues in pets.
Looking for information on how pets teach kids responsibility? If so, here are some benefits to kids having pets, and how it helps them be more responsible.
By weighing the pros and cons of having furry pets you understand the responsibilities, and see if it’s something that you can commit to.
Teach your children responsible pet ownership through pet adoption. Learn how to ensure child safety while owning a pet.
Is your dog well-behaved around people and other pets? Do u know how to treat them? here are the 9 Etiquette Tips For Dog Owner To Know. dog owner tips - dog owner love
Sometimes it’s difficult to look our precious pets in the eyes and deny them the extra treat they so desperately want, or a slice of turkey when your dog...
Taking care of your pet is important, and selecting the right veterinarian can make a big difference. Learn how to find the best veterinary for your furry friend today!
There is much more to being a responsible dog owner than the 25 tips mentioned here, but this will be a good starting point for any first time pet owners.
February is Responsible Pet Owner Month! Dr. Johnson, an emergency veterinarian, shares 10 ways to tell if you're a responsible pet owner!
Bringing home your first pet can be exciting and overwhelming. Follow these tips for a smooth transition for you and your new furry friend.
Dogs not only provide your family with a four-legged companion, but they are also a great way of teaching children responsibility.
If you're a first-time pet parent or new to pet insurance, you likely have a ton of questions. We've answered 10 of the most common to help you make an informed decision.
We’ve highlighted the most common pet care mistakes first-time pet parents need to avoid for a happy, healthy pet.
There are plenty of low maintenance pets out there that can bring joy to your home without requiring too much time and effort on your part.
This is a guide about adopting a pet. Before taking on the responsibility of domestic animal, it is important to know that you have adequate space, resources and time for your pet.
What is the AKC Canine Good Citizen Test? at Animal Behavior College - Over 24,000 students starting animal careers. Enroll today!
Get ready for your new best buddy!
Pets provide more than just companionship for children. Pet responsibility for kids provide a myriad opportunities to develop and grow in unique ways.
Learn about expected pet costs, how to save on your pet expenses, keep a healthy and happy pet, and also find ways to manage your pet budget.
Children can be easily bored, and giving them different tasks might not be easy each day. Here are 25 ideas on activities for kids during quarantine to do at home.
When it comes to taking care of a pet, there are a variety of pet care duties you can perform routinely to ensure the health and happiness of your pet.
