Top Dog Care Mistakes

Did you know that 44.5% of American households own dogs? Fido has a way of rounding out our small (or not-so-small) households and making our houses feel more like home. While we adore all animals, our canine companions are especially extraordinary with their devotion and loyalty. Your furry friend does require a lot of love and attention to thrive. While we’ve been calling dogs our furry best friends for thousands of years, there’s always something new to discover about them. In this article from Westside Animal Hospital, a local Pooler, GA veterinarian lists some common faux paws to watch out for.

Forgetting Paw Care

Don’t overlook Fido’s fuzzy feet. Overgrown nails influence how your four-legged buddy moves and stands. They can increase Fido’s chances of slipping and falling on slick surfaces and, worse, aggravate bone/joint problems.

Skipping Doggy Dental Care

Dental care is one of the most disregarded elements of dog care. Our canine companions are subject to many of the same dental issues as humans! 

Not Socializing Puppies

If you’ve just gotten a puppy, this should be one of your first priorities. As the name implies, socialization means ensuring that little Fido feels at ease and behaves well in new environments and with new people. This has to happen within a specific time frame, typically between three and fourteen weeks. This is when your furry friend decides what he thinks about the world. Improper or inadequate socializing will have a significant detrimental impact on your canine companion’s behavior as he grows. Dogs that have not been properly socialized are far more prone to have behavioral problems as adults.

Not Making Sure Your Dog Gets Enough Exercise

Dogs, like humans, require regular exercise to maintain good health. The sort and amount of exercise your dog requires will vary depending on his age, size, health, and, of course, preferences. At the very least, you should take your dog for a walk every day.

The advantages of a healthy doggy workout routine extend far beyond keeping your canine companion fit. This is also critical for his psychological and emotional well-being. Your furry friend would grow bored being at home all the time. Being able to appreciate a change of scenery—and sniff different plants and trees—is really beneficial to dogs since it provides enrichment.

This also allows your pet to relieve stress. After a walk, run, or play session, your dog will be more relaxed and possibly fatigued. That means he’ll be more concerned with having a nap than tearing up your sofa cushions.

Overfeeding Fido

More than half of our furry patients are, well, chokers. Your canine buddy may appear cute with some extra padding, but don’t be deceived. Carrying even a few excess pounds might be detrimental to your pet’s health and well-being!

Canine obesity poses serious health hazards that are far from cute. Here is a partial list:

• Cancer Diabetes
• Heart Illness
• Hypertension
• Anesthesia Complications
• Arthritis
• Respiratory Disease
• Breathing Conditions
• Impaired Immunological Function
• Bladder Stones
• Joint Issues
• Kidney Disease
• Musculoskeletal Illnesses
• Skin Conditions
• Liver Trouble
• Lethargy
• Ccl Tears
• Exercise Intolerance
• Flatulence
• Frequent Urination
• Heat Sensitivity
• Neoplasm

Obesity can also shorten your pooch’s life. Keep a tight check on your dog’s weight. Consult your Pooler, GA veterinarian for precise recommendations on your pet’s nutrition and care requirements.

Inconsistent Or Incomplete Training

Fido is a very good boy, but he needs training to understand what is and is not acceptable petiquette. Training should begin the day you bring Fido home. While you don’t have to teach your dog intricate instructions or cute tricks, he should understand the fundamentals: Sit, Stay, Heel, Come, and Lay Down.

Consistency is essential here. Do not let your canine buddy sit on the couch one day and then reprimand him for it the next. When dealing with your pet, make sure to use the same words or phrases.

Consult your Pooler, GA veterinarian for specific guidance on this.

Overlooking Safety Concerns

Dogs are intelligent, but they don’t understand what is and isn’t safe for them. Even worse, their inherent impulses often get them into trouble. A few simple guidelines can help avert many catastrophic incidents.

Petproofing is crucial! You should eliminate or secure anything that could be dangerous to your pet. This includes everything small or sharp, plastic bags and ties, personal goods like shoes and purses, hazardous plants, chemicals, and medication.

Don’t forget about the outdoors! Make sure that your fencing is secure and that your gate closes properly. If you have a pool, you should take precautions to keep Fido safe there as well.

Aside from that, always make sure Fido is comfortable and safe from extreme weather.

Leash safety is also important. Some well-trained dogs are OK off leash, but it has become far too common for people to simply let their dog roam freely. Always keep your canine companion leashed when you leave your home, unless he is in a fenced area.

Lack of Veterinary Care

All of our canine companions should be microchipped, spayed or neutered, and receive regular preventative care.

Microchipping is a one-time process that takes barely a moment, yet could one day save your dog’s life. Many people assume that their canine companions will never escape. Unfortunately, up to one in every three pets goes missing over their lifetime. 

Spaying and neutering not only helps to prevent unwanted litters, but they also usually result in a significant change in Fido’s behavior and temperament. Fixed pets are calmer, less likely to spray, and have less interest in going away in pursuit of a mate. 

Vaccines and parasite control protect your pet from a variety of harmful diseases and parasites, some of which can be fatal. Regular exams are also crucial.

Of course, you should also keep an eye out for symptoms of illness. If you observe anything out of the ordinary, contact your Clarksville, PA pet hospital immediately.

Schedule an Appointment at Your Pooler, GA Pet Clinic

Is it time for your dog to get a checkup, parasite treatment, or wellness care? Contact Westside Animal Hospital, your local Pooler, GA veterinary clinic, anytime!