FALL INTO GOOD PET HEALTH!

Fall is here, and life is getting busier! Between packed schedules, cooler weather, and all the fun that comes with the season, it can be easy for our pets’ healthy routines to slip. This month, we’re sharing simple ways to keep your furry friends happy, healthy, and on track all season long!

HEALTHY TEETH, HEALTHY PETS

We’ve all experienced loving on a pet only to realize their breath is less than pleasant. Just like us, pets can develop bad breath for a number of reasons, and poor oral health is one of them.

One of the best ways to support your pet’s dental health is by brushing their teeth . Regular brushing removes the plaque that builds up on their teeth each day. While dogs do not commonly develop cavities, they can still suffer from periodontal disease. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to bad breath, pain, and even tooth loss.

Regularly brushing your pet’s teeth can make a big difference in their overall health and keep their smile healthy for years to come!

We recommend soft bristle pet toothbrushes or finger brushes, and C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste.

Call us for a smaller size of the toothpaste or log into our online pharmacy to see our wide range of dental care products!

KEEP YOUR PETS MOVING!

Exercise gives our pets a reason to sleep soundly at night while also providing valuable social time. It strengthens the human-animal bond and helps pets feel their best.

There are many options for physical and mental exercise for your dog: walks, playing fetch, tug of war, puzzle feeders, obedience or trick

training, snuffle mats, or simply strolling the backyard.

If your cat is vaccinated, on prevention, and securely harnessed, outdoor walks can be a great opportunity for exercise. Sticking indoors with your feline friend? Toys such as bouncer sticks or crinkle toys to toss across the floor are great options.

Dogs and cats need opportunities to play, explore, and have fun. Combining playtime with regular exercise can make a big difference in your pet’s overall health and happiness. It can boost your mood too!

Sip, Snack, and Stay On Track

What’s in Your Pet’s Bowl?

Your pet needs a balanced diet that is appropriate for their species, age, and health needs. When choosing pet food, check the packaging to make sure it meets the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). AAFCO helps establish nutritional standards for commercially available pet foods. It is also important to make sure your pet has access to fresh, clean water every day. Proper nutrition and hydration are essential to keeping your pet healthy.

For questions about food brands and nutrition, please feel free to reach out to us for a discussion with your veterinarian: they can evaluate your pet’s lifestyle, medical conditions, and preferences to help determine an AAFCO approved diet.

Keeping Your Pet’s Weight in Check

Being overweight can put pets at risk for health problems such as joint issues, diabetes, respiratory problems, and a shorter lifespan. Recent studies show that approximately 60% of dogs and cats in the United States are classified as overweight or obese. If you think your pet may be overweight, talk with your veterinarian about the best next steps.

A healthy diet and regular exercise are important parts of maintaining a healthy weight. Keep track of what and how much your pet eats, feed meals instead of allowing them to graze throughout the day, schedule regular weight checks, avoid table scraps, and use interactive toys to encourage activity. Small changes can make a big difference in your pet’s health!

Vaccines: A Key Part of Preventative Care

Your veterinarian can recommend a vaccination program tailored to your pet’s age, lifestyle, and geographic area. While vaccination needs can vary from pet to pet, puppies and kittens generally require an initial series of core vaccinations to help build protection during their early months of life. Keeping your pet’s vaccines up to date throughout their life is an important part of preventive care, helping protect them from preventable diseases and supporting a long, healthy life.