If you’ve ever leaned in for a doggy kiss only to be hit with a wave of truly awful breath, you’re not alone. Dog breath is one of those small-but-annoying problems that nearly every pet parent deals with at some point. Even if your dog’s mouth is healthy, plaque and tartar buildup can cause seriously stinky breath over time.
And while we all know that we should be brushing our dogs’ teeth every day, hardly anyone is doing that. Most of us either forget or don’t make it a habit. Others can’t, because their dog is simply too wiggly. So, what can you do if you want fresher breath without the daily toothbrush battle?
This easy-to-use dental supplement is made from natural seaweed and works from the inside out. You simply sprinkle it onto your dog’s food once a day—and that’s it. No chasing your dog around with a toothbrush, no flavored gels, and no struggling with finger brushes. It helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup over time and tackles bad breath right at the source.
What’s especially nice is that Proden PlaqueOff doesn’t just mask odors—it supports better dental health overall. As your dog eats, the seaweed ingredients help soften plaque so it’s easier to break down naturally through chewing or regular eating. Most dogs don’t even notice it’s there, so you can feel good knowing you’re giving them something that’s both helpful and stress-free.
Of course, every dog is different, and results can take a few weeks to kick in. But plenty of pet parents (and their noses!) swear by it as a gentle, effective way to keep dog breath in check—especially when brushing just isn’t happening.
So if you’re dodging kisses or gagging during cuddle time, it might be time to give Proden PlaqueOff a try. Your dog gets healthier teeth and gums—and you get back to enjoying close-up snuggles without holding your breath.
We have seen many patients in our practice who come in with less tartar after starting this food additive. It really helps!
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Just like a doctor’s visit can be stressful for you, your pets may also feel the same anxiety when they go to the veterinarian’s office. Then, if they have a bad visit, it only gets worse. Every visit gets harder and harder for your pet.
For that reason, you need to make sure that your pet’s veterinary visits go as smoothly as possible. Here are some tips to help.
Ensure that you properly socialize any new puppies you acquire.
When you first get a new puppy (and they are properly vaccinated), you need to introduce them to new places. You will want to take them to different places so that they don’t fear going anywhere. Instead, each new place should be a fun place to explore!
So, get them used to going in the car to visit the pet store, friends’ and family’s homes, and even the veterinarian’s office. Most veterinarians will allow you to bring your new puppy in to get them used to coming in. They may even take time out of their day to play with your puppy and give him or her treats, just to make sure that they know it is a safe place.
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During this time, ensure that your pet is accustomed to being handled.
Most dogs and cats don’t enjoy getting touched, so you need to handle your new puppy and kitten regularly. Play with his or her feet. Look into the ears. Feel their belly, like they would have done at the veterinarian’s office. Look inside your pet’s mouth. All of this will make the examination go more smoothly.
You may even want to practice restraint. This is often the worst part of the visit, even over toenail trims and ear cleanings. Most dogs and cats don’t want to be held still. So, next time you take your dog or cat to the veterinarian, observe how they are held, so you can get your dog or cat used to it at home.
Find the right veterinarian.
Many veterinarians want your puppies and kittens to have a good experience. They want their patients to enjoy their visits, and they work hard to make sure that it happens. They may have a treat jar (or even a treat drawer) where they can pull out tasty snacks to make sure that your pet has a good experience.
Know the signs of stress.
It is essential to recognize when your dog or cat appears to be stressed.
Here are some signs of stress that you should look for:
Shedding
Licking or biting skin
Drooling
Barking and whining (in dogs)
Hissing (in cats)
Big eyes
Trembling
Hiding or, if unable to hide, they might tuck their body in order to make it as small as possible
Any habit that isn’t normal for your pet
If the visit to the veterinarian’s office is too stressful, you may need to try again on another day (or consider using medication to make the experience more manageable).
If your dog or cat is excessively stressed, your veterinarian may recommend medication.
Though you may not want to do so, it might be in everyone’s best interest. A pill or two could make the visit go that much smoother for your pet, you, and the entire veterinary team.
The goal isn’t to completely sedate your pet, but you want to take the edge off so that they aren’t as stressed (and are easier to handle). If your veterinarian would rather man-handle your dog or cat, it might not be the right place for you! It could just make the entire thing worse.
Always use a well-fitting collar or harness when coming to the veterinarian’s office.
You also need to have a good leash. Not only will you be able to bring your dog into the office, but it will also keep them safe. If there are other animals in the waiting room, you will have control of your own dog.
Although you may think you need a flexible leash, it is a much better idea to get a sturdy one, similar to this one from Amazon. Chewy also offers a variety of leashes for you to choose from.
Make sure that you bring your pet’s favorite treat along!
Though your veterinarian may offer treats, you may want to bring something that your dog or cat really enjoys. You may want to consider bringing cheese, chicken, or even hot dogs if that is what your dog loves to have.
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The best thing you can do for your new pet is to get them properly socialized. This means riding in the car and exploring new places. You may even want to visit the veterinarian’s office a few times before your appointment. It also helps to get him or her used to being handled and restrained. That helps the visit go that much smoother!
That being said, there are times when you may need to think about using sedatives. Though you may not want to use them, it can really help everyone. Your dog or cat will be less stressed. Your veterinarian may be able to complete the examination quickly, which means that your beloved pet will be back home sooner than expected! This is a win-win for everyone!
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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It is also essential to understand that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
When you go to the veterinarian for vaccines, you may be asked about several vaccines. This can become confusing, and you may not be sure exactly what your dog needs. You don’t want to over-vaccinate your dog, but you also need to ensure that he or she receives the necessary vaccines.
Here are some vaccines that your veterinarian may recommend for your dog.
Your dog needs to have a Rabies vaccine.
This disease, which is caused by the rabies virus, affects the brain and central nervous system. It is transmitted by direct contact with saliva from an infected animal. This is usually through a bite.
The rabies vaccine is so important because it can also affect humans. It is also deadly! Many states require all dogs (and cats) to have a rabies vaccine to keep everyone healthy!
The Distemper vaccine is a single vaccine that covers a variety of diseases, including distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and Parainfluenza.
Distemper is a highly contagious respiratory disease. It is spread through saliva, urine, and feces. It is often fatal.
Hepatitis is an infectious disease that can lead to severe liver damage. If left untreated, it can cause death. It is quite serious in puppies and older dogs and is spread through contact with infected urine.
Parvovirus is a highly contagious viral infection of the intestinal tract. It is spread through contact with the feces of another infected dog. It strikes quickly and can be deadly for puppies. This disease was rare until recently, when people stopped vaccinating their dogs as much as they used to.
Parainfluenza is a viral respiratory infection that may cause Kennel Cough. It is usually transmitted by contact with the nasal secretions of an infected dog. Puppies and older dogs are at a greater risk for parainfluenza.
Your dog’s distemper vaccine may also contain Leptospirosis. This is a bacterial disease that can cause kidney and liver problems. If left untreated, it can cause kidney failure. It is spread through infected urine. If a wild animal has leptospirosis, it can urinate near streams and other areas with standing water. If your dog drinks contaminated water, they may be at risk for the disease. Leptospirosis can also be transmitted to humans, making it even more important.
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The Bordetella vaccine is also known as the Kennel Cough vaccine.
It is used to prevent bacterial infections that cause kennel cough. If your dog has kennel cough, it may be caused by kennel cough alone, or it could be a combination of respiratory diseases.
If your dog is around other dogs, he or she should probably get the Bordetella vaccine. This may include taking your pet to the kennel or the groomer. You may also want to protect your dog if you take him or her to the dog park or allow your dog to spend time with a lot of other dogs.
The Lyme vaccine is helpful to protect your dog against this complex bacterial disease.
It can cause pain in the joints and lameness. Lyme disease is spread through the bites of infected deer ticks.
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When deciding which vaccinations your dog needs, consult with your veterinarian and technicians. He or she will be able to identify the risks your dog faces, allowing them to develop a suitable vaccination plan.
Whether you choose to vaccinate your dog or not, he or she needs to have a rabies vaccine. The distemper shot is also important to keep your dog as healthy as possible. If he or she is around other dogs, you may want to get the Bordetella vaccine. If you live in an area with a high tick population, it’s essential to protect your dog against Lyme disease.
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Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Most people don’t want to take their cat to the veterinarian, yet it is a crucial way to keep their cat as healthy as possible. Not only will your veterinarian take a good look at your cat, but he or she will also make sure that your cat is fully protected with vaccines.
While you don’t want to over-vaccinate your cat, you also don’t want to have to worry about him or her getting sick. You may be unsure about which vaccines your cat really needs. You may not want to give any, since your cat doesn’t even go outside. This may not be very clear for many pet owners.
Here are some vaccines that your veterinarian may recommend for your cat.
Your cat needs to have a Rabies vaccine.
This disease, which is caused by the rabies virus, affects the brain and central nervous system. It is transmitted by direct contact with saliva from an infected animal. This is usually through a bite.
The rabies vaccine is so important because it can also affect humans. It is also deadly! Many states require all cats to have a rabies vaccine to keep everyone healthy!
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The distemper vaccine is a single vaccine that covers a variety of diseases.
Its initials can help you remember all the different diseases that a distemper vaccine prevents. FVRCP stands for:
Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) can be fatal to kittens and older cats. It causes cats to sneeze and develop a fever. Many cats exhibit symptoms of a runny nose and eyes. Cats who have FVR often lose their appetite.
Feline calicivirus is a severe respiratory infection often associated with FVR. Cats will have nasal congestion and sneezing. Many cats also develop painful ulcers in their mouth, which can lead to drooling. These cats often get a fever and don’t feel very well.
Panleukopenia is a contagious disease that can be deadly for kittens. Signs include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and depression.
You may want to consider vaccinating your cat against Feline Leukemia.
This virus interferes with your cat’s immune system, meaning that he or she won’t be able to fight infection as well as usual. This disease is spread through saliva, urine, and blood. Cats get it by sharing food bowls, grooming, and bites.
If your cat is an outdoor cat, you should consider getting the leukemia vaccine to keep them as safe as possible.
Another disease to consider with outside cats is Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for this disease and no cure. Even worse, many cats that have FIV, also have feline leukemia.
Feline immunodeficiency virus is also transmitted through saliva. Biting, scratching, and fighting (which is common with outside cats) will spread this disease from cat to cat.
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For this reason, you should check every new cat (and kitten) that you get for Feline Leukemia and FIV. This is no longer a death sentence. Some of these cats can live healthy lives, as long as you take proper precautions. You will need to keep your cat inside and separate from all other cats. You won’t be able to let him or her outside, as you would help spread these diseases.
The best way to ensure your cat is fully vaccinated is to consult with your veterinarian. Let him or her know about your cat’s risk factors (including how many cats are in the home and whether he or she ever goes outside)! Then, you can decide together which vaccines your cat actually needs.
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Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
The simple truth is that most cats don’t drink as much water as they should. And as they age and develop an illness, they may need to consume even more water.
Many owners don’t ever see their cat drinking. In fact, when they do, a problem may already exist. Your cat may be drinking excessively and needs to see a veterinarian.
For this reason, ensureyour cat is drinking enough water. Here are some ways to encourage your cat to drink even more water.
Change their water every day.
Cats are more likely to drink clean water, so it is essential to change it daily, even if it appears untouched.
Have multiple bowls throughout the house.
The more opportunities that your cat has to drink, the more likely he or she will. So, find places throughout your home where you can place water bowls. That way, no matter where your cat is, fresh water is easily accessible.
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If your cat isn’t drinking out of his or her current water bowl, you may want to try others.
Many cats are finicky when it comes to their food and water bowls. You may need to try a few types before finding the one that they will use regularly.
In fact, you may want to try a water fountain.
Cats love drinking out of the sink and other places where water runs. For this reason, water fountains are often used to encourage them to drink more. Running water can bring cats to the fountain, and then once they are there, they are likely to drink.
Pet Cube offers a cat fountain to ensure that your cats stay as hydrated as possible. It purifies the water by removing bacteria, parasites, and other harmful pathogens, ensuring clean and safe hydration, just like you would want for yourself.
There are also plenty of options on Amazon and Chewy, if you would prefer to go that route.
Another effective way to ensure your cat is drinking enough is by switching to canned food.
The truth is that most cats don’t need to eat dry food at all. A canned diet is not only good for weight control, but it also helps them stay hydrated.
We recommend Friskee’s pate-style wet food to help with your cat’s water consumption. It is available on Amazon and Chewy.
Product Available on Amazon and Chewy.
Even better, you may be able to add additional water to your cat’s food.
Some owners wet down the dry food in order to help hydrate their cats. If your cat only eats wet food, you can still add some water to it as a way to increase your cat’s fluid intake.
You could also give them juice from tuna or canned chicken to increase the amount of fluids that they drink.
Tuna and canned chicken have a high water content, which can be beneficial for those who aren’t drinking enough water daily.
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Unfortunately, most cats don’t drink enough water in a day. In fact, most pet parents who come into the veterinary clinic don’t see their cat drinking at all! For this reason, you should do everything possible to ensure your cat is getting enough water every day.
You can do this by refreshing their water every day. Cats are more likely to drink fresh water than water that has been sitting out for a few days! You should also have it easily accessible by placing multiple bowls throughout the house. A fountain may encourage your cat to drink!
If that isn’t working, you may want to switch to canned food instead of dry. You can also add water to both forms of food to help your cat get enough fluids every day.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
The truth is that many people assume their dogs are a healthy weight when they are truly a few pounds (or more) overweight. Most people think that dogs should look a certain way, and when they are a healthy weight, they look skinny. In fact, some owners get told that their dogs need to gain weight when their weight is really where it should be.
Because of that, you need to understand what is at risk if you don’t keep your dog at a healthy weight.
So, what kinds of problems are you looking at when it comes to overweight dogs?
Overweight dogs are more likely to suffer from the following:
Diabetes mellitus
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Pain in the joints, which can turn into arthritis as your dog ages
In fact, arthritis and joint deterioration can happen faster when your dog is overweight.
Urinary tract infections and bladder stones
Complications from surgery
So, how can you tell if your dog is overweight?
Here are some signs that your dog weighs more than he or she should.
His or her silhouette.
When your dog is standing still, he or she should have a waistline. His or her body should indent on the side instead of being straight or sticking out in the abdominal area. You also want to see the belly tucks up, instead of hanging to the ground.
You can feel your dog’s ribs.
You are going to want to be able to feel the ribs easily. Though there may be a little padding, if there is a lot of padding (or you can’t feel the ribs at all), your dog needs to lose some weight.
Your dog may not be as active as normal.
Though your dog may be slowing down as he or she ages, the truth is that he or she should have plenty of energy. Your dog should continue to want to take walks on a daily basis, as well as play ball in the yard.
Why is my dog gaining weight?
There are many reasons why your dog may be gaining weight. Some are due to factors that you can control, and others may be due to a condition that they are dealing with.
Here are some of the most common reasons why your dog may be gaining weight.
You are feeding too much.
As your dog ages, he or she won’t need as much food. You need to start to adjust their daily feeding depending on their stage of life. You may be surprised by how little food your dog needs to eat in a day, especially when your dog becomes an adult.
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Your dog isn’t getting enough exercise.
In order for your dog to stay in shape, you need to find ways to build exercise into his or her life. This may include walks in the park, playing ball in the backyard, and even going to the dog park.
It may be in your dog’s genetics.
Certain breeds are more prone to obesity, so if you own a dog that is more commonly overweight, you need to be even more careful with how much you are feeding your dog.
Some of the most common dogs that are overweight are Labs, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Dachshunds, and much more.
Certain medications may cause your dog to gain weight.
The most common medication is Prednisone, though there are many different medications that can make it easy for your dog to pack on the pounds.
Hypothyroidism and Cushing’s Disease will often cause weight gain, which is why you should have your dog checked out by a veterinarian when you start the weight loss journey.
So, what can you do to help your dog to lose weight?
Taking your dog to the veterinarian should be the first step in the weight loss process. Your veterinarian will help you determine what your dog should weigh, as well as rule out any problems which may be the reason why your dog weighs more than he or she should.
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If you want to learn more, you can check out my other article, Tips for Weight Loss in Dogs and Cats, about helping your pet to lose weight. If interested, you can check it out right here.
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Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Though many people love to see cats that are a bit heavier than they should be, the truth is that even a few extra ounces can affect your cat’s health. Just like overweight people, they are more likely to have health problems.
So, what kinds of problems are you looking at when it comes to overweight cats?
Overweight cats are more likely to suffer from the following:
Diabetes
Pain in the joints, which can turn into Arthritis as your cat ages
Urinary tract infections
Skin problems since they can’t groom themselves as easily as they used to be able to.
So, how can you tell if your cat is overweight?
Here are some signs that your cat may be overweight.
Your cat’s silhouette.
When your cat is standing still, he or she should have a waistline. His or her body should indent on the side instead of being straight or sticking out in the abdominal area. You also want to see the belly tucks up, instead of hanging to the ground.
You can feel your cat’s ribs.
You will want to be able to feel your cat’s ribs easily. Though there may be a little padding, if there is a lot of padding (or you can’t feel the ribs at all), your cat needs to lose some weight.
If your cat is overweight, he or she won’t be as active.
Though your cat may be slowing down as he or she ages, the truth is that your cat should have plenty of energy. You may also notice that your cat is unable to jump up the way that he or she used to. It may take your cat a few tries to get up on the furniture, or he or she may not be able to get up at all!
So, what can you do to help your cat lose weight?
Taking your cat to the veterinarian should be the first step in the weight loss process. Your veterinarian will help you determine what your cat should weigh, as well as rule out any problems that may be the reason why your cat weighs more than he or she should.
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If you want to learn more, you can check out my other article, Tips for Weight Loss in Dogs and Cats, about helping your pet to lose weight. If interested, you can check it out right here.
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Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Unfortunately, the truth is that over eighty percent of pets over the age of three struggle with some form of dental disease. And to make matters worse, this disease is entirely preventable! That being said, the best way to ensure your pets have healthy teeth and gums is to know and understand as much as possible about the disease.
The first thing that all owners need to know is what signs they need to look out for. These signs will alert owners to the need for immediate veterinary attention for their pet.
The common signs of dental disease include:
Bad breath.
You may no longer want to get too close to your pet because of his or her breath.
Pawing and rubbing at the mouth.
This is often due to the pain and discomfort your pet may be experiencing.
Red and swollen gums.
You may also notice that your pet’s gums are really red. They may be so red that his or her gums are swollen.
Not eating as well.
Your pet may not be able to eat because his or her mouth is sore.
Doesn’t want to play with hard toys.
He or she may also avoid playing with hard toys or chewing on rawhide chews due to a sore mouth.
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If you notice any of these signs, consider consulting your veterinarian for a thorough dental examination. He or she will check for:
Pain
Bad breath
Drooling
Trouble swallowing
Changes in teeth. We look for signs of teeth resorption, missing teeth, fractured teeth, and other dental issues.
Inflammation
Bleeding
That being said, many pet owners are unaware of the importance of good dental care. Even if they notice the signs of disease, they may not take any action about it. However, that could be a mistake.
Good dental care is so essential for many reasons. If left untreated, dental disease can do the following:
Weight loss.
Struggle to eat enough to get the nutrition that your pet needs.
Pain and inflammation.
Dental disease can really affect your pet’s overall health and wellness.
Resorptive lesions.
These lesions are quite painful and are found in twenty-eight percent of cats.
Lost teeth.
Gingivitis and tartar can build up and cause your pet’s teeth to get loose and fall out.
Damage to your pet’s vital organs.
Bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause damage to your pet’s heart, kidneys, and liver.
As per the AHAA guidelines, “dental care is necessary to provide optimum health and optimize the quality of life.”
So, what can you do at home for your pet’s dental care? Here are some things that you can do now to improve the health of your pet’s mouth.
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Brush your pet’s teeth at home regularly.
Although it is best to do it daily, if you can do it several times a week, you will still notice a difference.
Use special treats and chew toys to help maintain good oral care.
There are many treats and chew toys out there to help your pet maintain good oral care.
Our clients have had great success with these chews.They are available on Amazon and Chewy.
If your dog is not a chewer, you may want to try this food additive. We have seen many dogs’ mouths look significantly better after using this product.
Visit your veterinarian regularly to ensure your pet’s oral health is optimal.
Your pet should be examined at least once a year to ensure its mouth is healthy.
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If you notice signs of dental disease, take note. You should schedule an examination with your veterinarian as soon as you can. You may be able to do better with your home care, though your pet may need a dental. Once they are professionally cleaned, all you have to do is maintain them that way.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Whether the sun is out or you will have to bundle up to face the wind and cold weather, the truth is that walking your dog can be very good for the two of you. Even though there are going to be days when you would prefer to stay inside in front of the television, the truth is that you should find time every day to get some fresh air with your dog.
There are so many incredible benefits to walking your dog. Here are some reasons why you should grab a leash and take a trip around the block.
Walking is a good cardiovascular exercise that is relatively safe.
Whether you are in shape or your goal is to get back into shape, walking is a great way to get and stay healthy. It can help you (and your dog) lose weight and stay fit. Before you decide to take the day off, consider your health and fitness goals. You may decide to do a loop around the block for you and your dog’s health!
Walking provides both mental and physical stimulation for your dog.
Some dogs, especially those that spend most of their time indoors, need to exercise both their body and their mind. A walk outside will help them discover new places and things. They may meet other people, dogs, and animals.
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They will see places that they wouldn’t otherwise see if they stayed in their yard. This is especially true if you take your dog to parks and other places to get your daily exercise.
Walking helps dogs become accustomed to various vehicles, including cars, trucks, and bikes, as well as other everyday objects.
As you and your dog are out and about, you will introduce him or her to new things. This can include cars, trucks, bikes, and much more. Though you want your dog to get used to them, you also want to make sure that your dog learns to be wary of them. As your dog learns about these dangers, you should also teach them how you want them to handle them. You may want to teach your dog to sit on the side of the road when a truck goes by.
Walking allows you to spend quality time with your dog.
In our busy lives, it can be challenging to find time to spend quality time with those we love, including our dogs. By making your walks together a priority, you ensure that you spend meaningful time together. This will help both of you feel loved and appreciated.
Knowing that you have to take your dog for a walk should be enough motivation to do it.
The simple truth is that, no matter how much you want to exercise, it is really easy to find excuses not to. It’s really easy to get distracted by your phone or the television and realize that an hour or two has passed. However, when you have a dog that relies on your daily (or multiple times a day) walks, you can’t tell them no. You find the time to get outside. This is beneficial for both your health and your dog’s health.
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Walking your dog is essential for good health. Not only will it help you get in shape, but it will also aid your dog in shedding excess weight.
Even better, having a dog will not allow you to find excuses for not exercising. You need to make time to get out of the house and go for a walk. It is also essential for your relationship with your dog. It will give you plenty of quality time together.
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Vaccinations have become quite controversial in recent years. Increasingly, parents aren’t vaccinating their children, despite their pediatrician’s recommendations. And the whole country is in a state of uncertainty about the new Coronavirus vaccine that has been released. Many are rushing to get protected, while others are simply unsure about it yet.
This also leads owners to question whether their pets need to be vaccinated. This is even more true with pet owners who have seen a vaccine reaction in their dog. Though it can be a simple puffy face, the truth is that vaccines can sometimes cause a serious problem. Others simply don’t want to worry about vaccinating their dog because they don’t want to spend the extra money.
However, not vaccinating your dog can be a big mistake. Here are some reasons why your dog should be vaccinated.
It is the law
All states require both dogs and cats to be vaccinated against rabies. This disease can be spread to humans, which is why it is the law. In fact, you could find yourself in a lot of legal trouble if your dog hasn’t had a rabies shot.
You should protect yourself and your entire family
The truth is that dogs can pass certain diseases onto people. These are called zoonotic diseases.
Simple vaccinations can help prevent the spread of certain diseases, such as Rabies. Leptospirosis is another such disease. It can cause kidney and liver problems in both dogs and people. To protect yourself and your family, consider vaccinating your dogs.
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And your dog
Vaccines were developed to protect dogs from certain diseases that are easily passed from one dog to another. The distemper shot, also known as a DHPP, alone covers Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.
Ask any veterinarian that you know, and these diseases have not been commonly seen for the past few years. However, as more people decide not to vaccinate their dogs, we are seeing a rise in various diseases, some of which can be highly infectious. Some are even fatal.
Vaccines will also protect other dogs.
While your own family and dog should be the most important to you, the truth is that, by vaccinating your dog, you are helping to protect other dogs too!
You should think about all the dogs that aren’t healthy enough to be vaccinated, as well as those that aren’t vaccinated for any number of reasons. You wouldn’t want your dog to catch any disease, simply because you didn’t vaccinate him or her.
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It’s not just about the vaccines
When you take your dog to the veterinarian for his or her vaccines, you should realize that it is not only about the vaccines. Your veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination to ensure your dog’s health. This is also a good opportunity to identify and address any issues early. It is also much easier to treat problems before they get even worse (and become more expensive to treat).
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If you are undecided about whether to vaccinate your dog, it is essential to understand the reasons why vaccination is beneficial. You need to protect yourself and your family against diseases that can be spread to you, such as Rabies and Leptospirosis.
You should also think about your dog. Not only that, but you don’t want him or her to get some diseases, just because you didn’t get him or her vaccinated. It is also essential to consider the examination that accompanies the vaccines. You need to make sure that your dog is as healthy as possible.
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please get in touch with a veterinary health professional immediately.
