Pets are wonderful, loyal family members, and we want them by our side for as long as possible. Unfortunately, our pets can’t live forever, but we can be proactive in helping them stay as healthy as possible. Our Monte Vista Animal Hospital team offers tips to keep your pet hale and hearty.

1: Schedule your pet’s annual veterinary wellness exam

Pets typically won’t show vulnerability, and they often hide signs that indicate they are in pain or don’t feel well. Annual veterinary wellness exams help our team detect health conditions in the early stages when they are easier to manage. These appointments involve a thorough physical examination as well as diagnostic tests that can help us identify issues such as heart murmurs, abdominal masses, cataracts, kidney disease, and metabolic conditions. Senior pets are at higher risk for health complications, and most require veterinary attention at least every six months to ensure their health and well-being. 

2: Keep your pet at a healthy weight

Pet obesity is prevalent in the United States, and while you may think a few extra pounds can’t hurt your four-legged friend, you would be wrong. Overweight pets are at increased risk for serious health issues, such as cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, and arthritis. Keeping your pet at a healthy weight protects them from these conditions and improves their quality of life. Specific tips to keep your pet fit and trim include:

  • Calculate your pet’s caloric needs — Consider your pet’s breed, age, weight, activity level, and spay/neuter status, and calculate their daily caloric needs. Online tools are available to help with the math. 
  • Feed an appropriate diet — Feed your pet an appropriate diet for their breed and life stage. Our team can provide nutritional counseling to help determine the best diet for your four-legged friend.
  • Measure your pet’s food — Use a kitchen scale or measuring cup to accurately measure your pet’s meal portion, so they don’t get too much or too little.
  • Limit treats — Limit treats to no more than 10% of your pet’s daily caloric intake, and choose healthy options, such as cut-up fruits (no grapes) and veggies.

3: Provide appropriate dental care for your pet

Most pets have some degree of dental disease by age 3. Dental bacteria can cause not only foul breath, but also inflamed gums, pain, loose and missing teeth, tooth root abscesses, and organ damage if the pathogens enter your pet’s bloodstream. Fortunately, dental disease in pets is easily preventable. Specific tips include:

  • Schedule professional veterinary dental cleanings — Pets require regular professional veterinary dental cleanings to remove bacteria from under the gum line where the most damage occurs. 
  • Brush your pet’s teeth — Daily brushing helps remove plaque and tartar from your pet’s teeth between professional veterinary cleanings. Using a pet-specific toothpaste that your pet enjoys will facilitate the process. 
  • Provide dental treats — Look for dental treats approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).

4: Administer your pet’s parasite prevention year-round

Pets are at risk from parasites such as heartworms, fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms. While some pet owners skip their pet’s preventive medication in the winter, these parasites pose a year-round danger. Therefore, ensure your pet is protected with year-round parasite prevention. Our team can help you determine the best products for your furry pal.

5: Ensure your pet is properly enriched

Pets need appropriate mental and physical enrichment to prevent boredom and stress and to keep them healthy. Specific tips include:

  • Schedule daily playtime — Schedule two or three play sessions a day with your pet to ensure you leave time in your busy day to interact.
  • Rotate your pet’s toys — Rotate your pet’s toys every few weeks to help prevent boredom.
  • Use food-puzzle feeders — Instead of placing your pet’s food in a bowl at dinner time, make their meal more exciting with a food-puzzle feeder.

Contact our Monte Vista Animal Hospital team to schedule your pet’s annual wellness visit or to address any concerns you may have about your four-legged friend’s health.

Bonus Tip: Importance of Hydration and Fresh Water for Your Pet

While it may seem simple, providing clean, fresh water daily is crucial for your pet’s health. Proper hydration supports almost every bodily function, from digestion and nutrient absorption to temperature regulation. Dehydration can lead to serious issues, including kidney problems and urinary tract infections, particularly in cats and dogs prone to urinary concerns.

How to Encourage Hydration:

  • Place Multiple Water Bowls: Set up water stations throughout your home to make it convenient for your pet to stay hydrated, especially in warmer months.
  • Keep Water Fresh: Pets may avoid water that has been sitting for too long, so try refreshing it twice a day. Consider using a pet water fountain, which some pets find more appealing.
  • Add Water to Food: For pets who are reluctant to drink, adding a small amount of water to their food can be an easy way to increase their hydration.

Monitoring your pet’s water intake is a simple step that can make a big difference in their overall health, helping them feel more energetic and reducing the risk of common issues associated with dehydration.

Keeping your pet healthy and happy takes consistent, proactive care, and by following these essential tips, you can greatly enhance their quality of life. From regular vet check-ups and dental care to maintaining a healthy weight and enriching their environment, every effort counts. At Monte Vista Animal Hospital, we’re here to support you with the resources and guidance you need to keep your pet at their best. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to discuss any aspect of your pet’s wellness journey.