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As a dog owner, you want to do everything possible to keep your furry friend happy and healthy. But with so much information (and misinformation) out there, it can be hard to know what’s truly best for your pup. As veterinarians, there are a few things we wish every dog owner knew to help make their pet’s life better—and yours a little easier, too.
🩺 Vet Recommendations
Your veterinarian is your partner in keeping your dog healthy. Regular check-ups, even when your dog seems fine, are essential for catching issues early and preventing bigger problems down the road. Here are a few things vets wish more dog owners would prioritize:
- Annual wellness exams, even for young and healthy dogs
- Keeping vaccines up to date to protect against preventable diseases
- Using monthly parasite prevention for fleas, ticks, and heartworm
- Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise
- Brushing your dog’s teeth or using vet-approved dental chews
Consistent care is key to ensuring your dog lives a long, healthy life. Your vet can guide you on what’s appropriate based on your dog’s breed, age, and health status.
📋 Care Tips
Dogs rely on us for their well-being, and small changes in how we care for them can make a big difference. Consider these practical tips:
- Provide fresh, clean water daily—hydration is crucial.
- Feed a high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet formulated for your dog’s age and size.
- Offer regular exercise tailored to your dog’s energy levels and breed. A bored dog can develop destructive habits.
- Socialize your dog early to reduce anxiety and improve behavior around other pets and people.
- Keep their environment safe by removing toxic foods, plants, and household items.
According to the ASPCA, even small amounts of foods like chocolate, onions, or garlic can be harmful to dogs (source).
✅ Do’s and Don’ts
Sometimes, the best care comes down to knowing what to do—and what not to do. Here are some quick do’s and don’ts for dog owners:
- Do: Monitor your dog’s behavior and energy levels for subtle signs of illness.
- Do: Train your dog with positive reinforcement to build trust and good behavior.
- Don’t: Skip annual vet visits, even if your dog seems healthy.
- Don’t: Give human medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen—these can be toxic to dogs.
- Don’t: Ignore dental health. Dental disease can lead to pain and other health issues.
Being proactive rather than reactive is one of the most important things you can do for your dog’s health.
💡 Expert Advice
As vets, we understand that life gets busy, and pet care can sometimes feel overwhelming. But small, consistent efforts—like daily walks, regular grooming, and keeping up with preventative care—can have a huge impact on your dog’s quality of life.
If you’re ever unsure about what’s best for your dog, reach out to your vet. Telehealth services like Dial A Vet make it easier than ever to get quick, expert advice from the comfort of home. No question is too small when it comes to your pet’s health and happiness.
FAQs
Q: How often should I take my dog to the vet?
A: Most dogs should see a vet at least once a year for a wellness exam. Puppies, senior dogs, and pets with chronic conditions may need more frequent visits.
Q: What are the most common signs my dog might be sick?
A: Look for changes in appetite, energy levels, weight, or bathroom habits. Vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, or limping are also signs to watch for. Always consult your vet if you’re concerned.
Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.
