Having a dog is wonderful. It provides unconditional love to you and for the family every day of the week. But, there’s also a lot of responsibility that goes along with having a pet. As your pet ages, it counts on you solely to provide care.
Regular vet visits
Most pet owners are very good at taking their puppy and young dog to the vet for necessary vaccines for the first two years or so. After that time many don’t take their pet at all. They figure if their dog is active and doesn’t show any signs of problems there’s no need to waste the money and take him to the vet. The problem with that kind of thinking is that something serious could develop and because the detection wasn’t early enough your pet now has to go through surgery, take medications or worse, may lose its life. Just as with humans, signs aren’t also visible until it’s too late. Regular checkups can prevent your dog from having to go through more pain than necessary. For instance, dog seizures while sleeping can mean the development of things like liver disease, a brain tumor, kidney failure or it could be nothing at all.
A healthy diet
Table scraps here and there aren’t really a bad thing, other than turning your pooch into the family mooch. But, the reality is that your dog needs a well-balanced diet that includes proteins, grains, fruits and vegetables. Many of the brands of food at your local supermarket have meat-by products listed as their first ingredient. They also use artificial colors, flavors and sweeteners. If you give your dog this type of food daily, it’s the same as taking your children to a fast-food restaurant every day. Without the proper vitamins, minerals and proteins, your dog will not develop to its full potential and because of this will need medical attention in the future. If you are not sure what food to give your dog, check with your vet. There are many factors that go into choosing the right food like breed, weight and age.
Social interaction
Your dog is your pal, but if you don’t introduce him to other people at a young age you’ll never be able to show off your stellar pet. It’s best when your dog is a puppy to socialize him. Take him everywhere and let him get used to people and other pets. Take walks to the park and let him sniff down the competition. Take him to the vet, on car rides, and even outdoor vacations. The more your pet interacts with people and other animals the easier it is to take him out and to allow people inside your home. A sheltered dog doesn’t want anyone else but the people he knows around, and once your dog reaches a certain age it will not change its habit.
A comfortable place to sleep
Just like you enjoy crawling into bed at the end of a long exhausting day, so does your pet. And, since he can’t tell you, it’s up to you to provide a comfortable place that’s all his own. There are many different types of pet beds so make sure that you get one that allows your dog to stretch freely and feel secure. Also, deciding whether to get the type with raised walls versus an open flat padded bed really depends on your dog’s age and sleeping positions. If he likes to curl up, the raised walls add support and privacy. If he likes to sprawl, a flat bed has no limitations.
Dogs are truly man’s best friend. It’s up to you to make sure your pet enjoys a comfortable life. Take him to the vet for regular checkups; enjoy long walks and a game of catch in the park. And, if your dog does come down ill make sure to check all treatment options like cannabinoid versus traditional prescription pills. If you do the right things for him, he’ll end up living longer and proving his affection longer too.