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Owning a dog is one of the most wonderful experiences. They become a member of the family and weave themselves not just into our lives but our hearts. However, many people do not realize the level of responsibility they are taking on when they decide to get a dog. Ensuring that a dog is happy and healthy takes time, money, and lots of work, but the rewards are definitely worth it. Whether you are considering getting a dog for your home or you are looking for tips on how to ensure they get the best care, here are five steps to a happy and healthy dog.
1. Keep their water supply clean and fresh
Your dog needs access to a clean supply of fresh water at all times. Water is crucial to your dog’s digestive processes, helping them absorb nutrients and flush toxins from their body. Being adequately hydrated also helps them to regulate their body temperature and improves their mobility.
2. Feed them quality food
Dog food varies greatly in quality, and while it might be tempting to choose the cheapest brand, it is not the best choice for your dog’s health. Check the ingredients on the packaging as many brands do not contain much protein. Some dogs have an allergy to grain or another intolerance that can upset their stomach, so it may be necessary to spend more money on specialist formulas.
3. Give them enough exercise
All dogs need daily exercise, but the amount of exercise they need will vary depending on the breed and age of your dog. Click here for more information on the recommended exercise for dogs. Remember, when exercising your dog, you need to keep them under control at all times for the safety of your dog and others. Depending on their level of obedience, this might mean keeping them on a lead in public places.
4. Take them to the vet regularly
It is not enough to wait until your dog shows signs of illness or injury to take them to the vet. To prevent your dog from becoming ill in the first place, it is important to take your dog to its annual check-ups, where the vet will look for early signs of health problems. Your dog also needs to take preventative medicine on a regular basis, or they run the risk of contracting parasites like worms, fleas, or ticks. Paying for an affordable wellness plan with Easy Vet Clinic can be a simpler way to ensure your dog receives the care they need all year round.
5. Play with them every day
In addition to exercise, dogs need mental stimulation and fun. This is imperative to their overall wellbeing, so it is worth investing as much time as you can in playing games with your dog. It is particularly important to ensure your dogs are not left alone for more than a few hours at a time. If you need to leave them alone, there are lots of dog toys on the market designed to prevent boredom.