With our New Year's resolutions being tossed around, and all those good intentions at the forefront of our minds, I challenge you to do a few great things for your dog's health this year. Just a few simple things can improve your dog's health today and throughout this brand new year.
Do you know what's in your dog's food? What's the protein source of that diet you buy regularly? You're paying hard-earned money for that food and while your dog may like the taste, is it really a good diet? Maybe your dog's weight keeps tipping the scales in the wrong direction and it's time to buy some lighter fare. Maybe you're being tricked by marketing that features veggies and meat on the bag, but the food's actual ingredients pale in comparison to what that high dollar advertising campaign had pushed down our throats. Do some research on the food you buy and find out of there are recalls or ill effects from the brand you choose. A quick internet search will yield quite a bit of information. Start with PetDiets.com for some eye-opening facts and tips.
Exercise is on everyone's weight loss list for the new year. Start with walking your dog to improve your canine-human bond and get those pounds melting away. Dogs suffer from the same weight-related issues that we do. Diabetes, joint pain, and heart disease to name a few. Grab your dog's leash and get out there. Our Dallas weather isn't nearly as cold as some locales, especially these days. And if you can't walk much yourself, take your pup to the local dog park. Let her burn off some of that excess energy with members of her own species! Keep these tips in mind for a great dog park experience.
Finally, make a point of having your dog's yearly veterinary exam include a blood panel. There are so many underlying illnesses that can wreak havoc on your dog's health. While they act and seem healthy, dogs are masters of disguising aches, pains and discomfort. In the animal world, pain equals weakness and this weakness can be life-threatening. The weak get left behind, while the healthy thrive. Although they live in the comfort of our warm homes, these animal rules are instinctive. Blood panels can also provide warning signs of developing illness. This is an ideal time to start treating or monitoring symptoms of illness. Partner with your trusted vet for guidance to ensure a healthy 2013.
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