Things You Can Do for Your Pet This Year

2025 is off and running! It’s probably safe to say that our pets aren’t overly concerned about what they’ll accomplish in the coming year. Fluffy may wish to extend her napping times or perfect her pounces, whilst Fido may want to catch that cheeky red squirrel. Why not ramp up your pet’s care regimen? In this article from Westside Animal Hospital, a local Savannah, GA veterinarian lists some of them.

Become More Active

Vowing to get in better shape is a pretty common resolution among people. Physical fitness is also quite important for pets. In fact, ensuring that your pet receives the appropriate type and amount of exercise is one of the most critical things you can do for their health and well-being.

Of course, each pet’s exercise routine will differ slightly. For dogs, Fido’s age, breed, and size will all play a role in establishing his optimal workout. A Golden Retriever may think that spending a few hours swimming in the backyard pool is loads of fun, but a pug would be in grave danger. Contact your veterinarian for further information.

Menu Upgrade

When it comes to pet care, your animal friend’s health should always be the top priority. Quality and quantity are both important here. You should choose a high-quality pet food brand. That does not mean breaking the budget, and you do not have to stick with high-end boutique labels. Just choose something that is nutritious and suitable for your pet’s age, weight, size, and health.

• Get into the habit of inspecting the labels. Choose things with wholesome, easily recognized ingredients. Meat, fish, and/or poultry should appear first on the label because they comprise the largest portions of the recipe, percentage-wise. Avoid those that contain a lot of carb-rich fillers, such as maize and wheat.
• Portion management is also necessary. It only takes a modest bit of overfeeding per day for your pet to begin gaining weight.
• Treats are acceptable, but don’t go overboard here. Treats should only account for roughly 5% of your dog’s daily consumption. It’s also best to stick to nutritious snacks.
• Begging should be discouraged to the greatest extent possible. We know it’s hard to resist that adorable fuzzy face!

Of course, your veterinarian should be the ultimate authority in this matter. Get precise guidance on safe and harmful meals, portion sizes, and feeding regimens.

Proper Veterinary Care

Hopefully, you do this every year! Proper veterinary treatment is essential for your pet’s health and well-being. Protecting dogs from parasites and diseases is both cheaper and easier than treating them. Furthermore, regular exams allow you to monitor your pet’s health. Screenings and panels frequently uncover minor anomalies that may indicate a developing problem. This can be incredibly beneficial. The sooner anything is detected and diagnosed, the better!

Your pet’s appointment schedule will change with time. Follow your Savannah, GA veterinarian’s suggestions on this.

Take Time to Play

Health, diet, and fitness are key goals for both humans and pets. However, your pet’s emotional wellness is also crucial. One of the nicest things you can do for your pet is to play with them!

Playing is, first and foremost, an excellent way for your pet to exercise. It also allows them to use up any zoomies they have. They will then be more relaxed and well-behaved. This means kids will be less prone to engage in negative behavior. For dogs, this includes digging and chewing. For cats, this entails racing around and meowing in the middle of the night.

Playing is also a terrific way to bond. When you hold a toy for Fluffy and Fido, they will understand that you are doing something special for them. If you have multiple pets, dual play sessions might help them bond with one another. Playing can also help calm worried or nervous. Pets. Finally, it provides mental stimulation. Fluffy must concentrate on those tricky pounces, while Fido must time his jumps perfectly to catch the ball or Frisbee. That attention is beneficial to your pet’s mental health as well.

Petproofing

Petproofing details will vary based on the type of pet you have, but they are very relevant for all of our animal companions. In general, you’d want to address small or sharp objects, dangerous plants, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, wires and cords, flames, and unsafe foods. Contact your Savannah, GA veterinarian for further information.

Make Them Feel Loved

Pets truly enrich our lives with their love and affection. They keep us laughing, comfort us in difficult times, and support us through all of life’s ups and downs and curve balls. They do not ask for much, either. Simply paying attention to your furry companion can help them feel happy, appreciated, and safe. Give out plenty of ear scritches, tummy rubs, and forehead boops this year. 

Book An Appointment At Our Savannah, GA Animal Clinic

Do you need to bring your pet inside? Are you looking for an excellent veterinarian? Please don’t hesitate to contact us at any time. At Westside Animal Hospital, your local Savannah, GA pet hospital, we are always available to assist!