As a dog owner, you are responsible for keeping your dog healthy with routine medical care. This involves much more than just regular eating and exercise. Much of a dog’s care can depend on her age and general health. It can also be driven by your work or social schedule. Anyway, you should keep the following in mind to help

make sure your dog lives a happy, healthy and long life. So, in no particular order:

• • Be aware– Dogs are actually great communicators, if you pay attention. This is true from “puppy” to old age. You will get to know their behavior at various times of the day. Changes in this may indicate a change in health. Watch for reduced energy, a dull coat, excessive weight gain or loss, unusual growths, restlessness/anxiety, or even the loss of the usual sparkle in the eye. If you already have a dog, you’ll know what I mean. In all cases, seek the advice of your dog’s health professional.

• • Establish a daily routine– Dog love routine. It is through this routine that they come to understand his role in their family (read Pack). Create a series of morning, daytime, and evening events that your dog will respect and look forward to, such as:
    • • Morning walks and light games.
    • • Feeding: Depending on the age and health of your pet, the hours and daily amounts of food will vary. In all cases, ensure that feeds are gained with a simple hold command for a brief moment before allowing the feed to begin. Some animal behavior specialists argue that your pet should never be fed before you and your family, which reinforces the herd process in the wild.
    • • Times to go to the bathroom. Again, this will depend on the age and health of your pet. Generally, our experience is that a puppy will need a one hour break for his monthly age. For example, a two-month-old puppy will need a break about every two hours; a three-month-old will require a break every three hours, and so on. Adult dogs will generally need approximately 2-3 breaks per day depending on time of year, food and water intake, etc.
    • • Nighttime playtime – Your dog will want to play with you, especially if you’ve been away for the day. Establish a playtime/routine that conveys to your dog that this is a time to look forward to happily. Also, to help understand that downtime is also required for her to continue her other obligations or interests in the home.
    • Bedtime on time: Just like humans, bedtime is preferred to a regular time at night. Have your pet crated or directed to his “lying” space at about the same time each night. Make sure they’ve done their job and haven’t been too excited before this point.

• • dog pound– This is becoming the preferred way for your pet to be trained and housed in doors. Our experience has been that a dog, if presented with a kennel of proper form, will wholeheartedly accept it as a safe and comfortable place to occupy. Allow his pet to run the house, especially when a puppy or younger dog will make house training more difficult. The kennel represents a positive place for you to place your dog between eating and potty early on and also a place for an older dog to rest, sleep or just relax. The size of the cage is very important and depends on the size of your pet. Seek the advice of your seller before buying.

• • Choose healthy, age-appropriate dog foods– This is very important for your dog. The adage that we are what we eat also applies to your pet. Take time to read the label on various bags of dog food at your place of purchase. You will be surprised by the ingredients found in the ofrendas. The price is not an indicator of healthy food either. Obviously, natural ingredients are the best. The better the food intake, the better your dog will look, feel and act. This is very important friends!

• • Exercise your dog – Exercise yourself– Your pet will need exercise. It is true that some breeds require less exercise, but in general all dogs need some level of exercise. Beyond the physical benefits of the routine, don’t underestimate the psychological benefits as well. A dog without exercise will become frustrated, anxious, or even aggressive at times. Also, every time you walk or play with your pet you are increasing the bond between you. This is emotionally beneficial for both of you. Ultimately, each step you take during this routine is one more step toward good health for you. Vary the routine if you can. It will be more enjoyable and interesting for your dog.

• • Toys must be age appropriate.– Toys that are not age appropriate can be dangerous for your dog. Certain types of rawhide bones could, after being chewed by a pup, lodge in the pup’s throat and pose a major threat. Dogs at each age plateau have unique needs and abilities when it comes to toys. They can help stimulate, educate, structurally develop and amuse your pet. The use of toys is also important. It has been suggested, for example, that playing tug of war with your pup and letting him tug at the toy may be sending the wrong message. You may learn that you can beat or master that particular exercise. Consult with your vet for advice in this area.

• Prevention saves money and extends life– Regular checkups with your vet are absolutely essential to your dog’s quality of life. Beyond the physical evaluation that will be performed, this is a good opportunity to:
  • • Update vaccinations and apply boosters if necessary
  • • Treatments for ticks, heartworms and fleas can be applied.
  • Tests for blood worms and fecal evaluation may be done.

If there is a problem, it will most likely be quickly diagnosed, treated, and resolved, saving you unnecessary discomfort, trauma, or a more serious outcome down the road.

• Fixing is more than looking good– Regular grooming is important on several levels. You want your dog to look good and this will do the trick. If you decide to do it yourself, it’s another opportunity to increase the bond you have with him. Additionally, the groomer can spot any unusual skin ailments that your vet can bring to your attention and evaluate. Grooming for your pet can be as much awaited as a long-awaited massage for you. Most dogs will love the attention. This is also a time to cut your nails. This is important for your dog’s health. Not trimming properly or infrequently can injure your pet or affect his ability to run, walk, or remain stable on certain types of flooring. Regular clipping alleviates this.

Just a few ideas to help keep your dog healthy with routine health care. It takes some work and attention, but the benefits to your dog are immense. This is your partner after all. Do all you can to provide him with a long, healthy, and happy life.