Pet Health And Your Pet
Written by John Knight   
Sunday, 24 October 2010
When you adopt a pet it is your responsibility to take good care of it. Pet health is not difficult as long as you understand what it is that you have to do. Our pets can be a great source of companionship, love and joy. It is our job to keep them well fed, cared for and as healthy as possible.
by JohnKnight


When you adopt a pet it is your responsibility to take good care of it. Pet health is not difficult as long as you understand what it is that you have to do. Our pets can be a great source of companionship, love and joy. It is our job to keep them well fed, cared for and as healthy as possible.

Just like having a toddler, a pet that is new to your home will explore and get into things so you need to make sure it is safe. Keep electrical cords put away so that they will not be chewed. Cleaning supplies should be locked up or stored in a place that your pet cannot reach. Even some house plants are poisonous when eaten, take care to know if the kinds of house plants you have are poisonous and if necessary keep them out of reach.

A fat pet can appear to be cute but in reality you are doing your pet a disservice by allowing them to get fat. Obesity can cause premature death for your pet. Make sure you don't give your pet the same snacks you eat yourself. Take your pet in for vaccinations and dental exams to keep them in the best of health.

There are products on the market that can be used to repel fleas or treat your pet if they have them. Fleas harbor parasites that can make your pet very sick. Some dogs are allergic to fleas and one flea on them will drive them crazy. Ticks are dangerous in that they can carry Lyme disease. Always check your pet for fleas and ticks.

Worms are the most common problem for dogs next to fleas. Roundworms, heart worms, hookworms, whip worms and tapeworms are all parasites to watch out for. They can cause symptoms like anemia, weight loss, lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting and even death. They are not visible without a stool examination or blood test and an annual check for worms is necessary for dogs to control or prevent them.

Dogs are prone to disease that is more specific to some breeds than to others. Early detection can save your pets life. Canine distemper effects the organs and nervous system. There is a vaccination for it, this disease is often fatal or can cause serious impairment. Rabies is also another disease that can be prevented with a vaccination. It is transmitted by the bite of an animal that is infected. It is fatal almost always and can be transmitted to humans. Kennel cough, parvo, coronavirus, hepatitis and leptospirosis can been detected by signs like weakness, loss of weight, labored breathing, fever, coughing, diarrhea or vomiting. Prevention of these diseases is possible with scheduled vaccinations. If you have just brought home a puppy make sure it has all of its shots.

Feeding your dog the right dog food can make a big difference in their health and how they grow. A balanced diet will reflect in your dog's coat, teeth and eyes. A healthy dog is a happy dog therefore making a happy owner. A high quality diet high in fiber and low in fat is recommended. Don't give your dog too many treats and when you do make sure they are low in calories.

Spaying and neutering your pet will in the long run keep them healthier in many ways and make for a better pet. The chance of developing testicular cancer and prostate problems will be eliminated. Uterine cancer and ovarian cancer will be avoided. And your dog will not get the urge to run around the streets which can increase their likelihood of getting hit by a car.

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