5 things you can do today to help your dog live longer
By: Dr. Shelly Zacharias
If we could have our pets by our side forever, you know we would. Unfortunately, life doesn’t work that way. Even though our precious pups will turn old one day, there are steps we can take as pet owners to extend their lives. With these 5 steps, you and Fido can continue to play, fetch, cuddle, and be BFFs.
Healthy Diet
Just like a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables is good for humans, a well-balanced diet is part of a pup’s overall wellness plan. Good, nutritious food is better for your pet’s organ function, weight management, joint health, skin condition, GI tract function, and overall body health. Poor diet is the No. 1 cause of health problems for dogs, so if you take care of what they eat, their bodies will be better equipped to handle anything that comes their way.
Exercise
As you’ve heard from breeders, vets, and general knowledge, exercise has obvious health benefits. It provides a dog with cardiovascular health and — this might surprise you — mental health.
Physically, exercise assists with weight management and cardiovascular health, so your pup is stronger, happier, and is able to live their best life. When it comes to behavioral health, exercise is a phenomenal way to boost their mental and emotional health. Dogs that exercise regularly are a better housemate to live with, they’re less destructive, and are better at socializing with other dogs and humans. Don’t forget: Dogs do get depressed, so take them out for a long walk or play fetch in the yard. Your pup will thank you for it!
Be Proactive
Regular vet check ups are a crucial part of maintaining your dog’s overall wellness routine, especially as your puppy ages past 3 and 4. Annual blood work is vital, as it provides your vet with an incredible amount of information, especially when looking at the data year-over-year. Heartworm prevention is also crucial and a telltale sign your vet looks thoroughly into annually. Being proactive helps dog parents catch problems before they become severe. Make sure you never skip on your annual vet appointment.
Love
This might go without saying, but dogs are affectionate animals, and we need to show them love. With the bustle of life, family, travel, work obligations, etc, our loyal companions can feel like they’re being left out. Whether you’re napping together, playing together, or just hanging on the couch together, your pup will love you for your companionship.
Stem Cells
Similar to being proactive in your pet’s healthcare, banking a dog’s stem cells during the spay or neuter process is an incredible way to extend your pet’s life. These incredibly powerful cells can treat many diseases your dog develops later in life and is a cheaper option than waiting until your dog becomes sick to seek treatment. We dig deep into how stem cells can help your dog live longer in a blog post here, and if you ever have any questions, reach out to us at Gallant to learn more here.
