It’s that time of the year again, wherein many parts of the country the temperatures are getting cooler and fall colors are in full view.  Not only does October represent the ushering in of fall, but it also represents another important reminder for pet owners: National Pet Wellness Month!  Not that most pet parents need a reminder to take care of furry family members, but National Pet Wellness Month increases awareness of how important it is to keep our pets healthy and happy. 

Just like us, our pets need regular checkups and healthy lifestyle choices to stay in tip-top shape. This is especially important as our pets get older.  Outside of the vet’s office, here are a few things you should be aware of related to the daily care of our pets.

Nutrition – Finding the right diet for your dog or cat is the basis for good health. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, veterinarians classified 53% of adult dogs and 55% of cats as overweight or obese. Remember to take age, breed and lifestyle into consideration when selecting the proper diet. A balanced and correctly portioned diet will go a long way in maintaining your pets’ health.

Dental Care – Don’t forget about those teeth!  Poor oral health can lead to dental disease that can drastically affect the overall health of your pet. Brushing your dog or cats' teeth on a regular basis can help reduce tartar build-up and improve dental health. There are some great dental chews that can also help with preventative maintenance.

Ear Care – We may not often think about how clean our dog’s ears are.  Some breeds may be more susceptible to dirty ears and the complications that may follow. Routine ear exams and cleaning to help reduce dirt, debris and excessive wax build-up are good ways to prevent potential infections or detect other ear issues early.

Exercise – Good for you and your pet! Exercise can be a fun activity for you and your dog. Going for a walk, playing fetch, playing tug of war or running an obstacle course are all great ways to be active with your pet. Don’t forget the social aspect to exercise as well.  Dogs are social creatures, so time spent with you and around other dogs can go a long way in enriching the social and emotional health of your dog. 

It’s always recommended to seek advice from your veterinarian about your pet’s specific healthcare needs. Be sure to set a date for your annual vet visit.  By taking some at-home steps for preventative maintenance, your best friend will likely pass with flying colors!