Keeping Your Pup Healthy During a Pandemic
So much of the focus over the last few months has been keeping ourselves healthy… and for good reason.
But let’s not forget about our pups.
The start of a new season is a great time to take steps to ensure your “best friend” stays healthy, too.
Like taking a visit to the vet.
Many folks have put off on going to their own doctor’s appointments during the pandemic out of fear of exposure.
But dogs need regular vaccinations.
And really should be tested annually for parasites and heartworms.
You don’t want to get too behind in your dog’s care and put their own health at risk.
Many veterinarians’ offices are taking extra precautions to keep everyone safe.
Some are even offering curbside drop off and pick-up for appointments, so you don’t need to get out of your car.
Keeping up with your dog’s heartworm preventative is another way to keep your pup healthy.
Heartworm is a serious and potentially fatal disease in pets caused by long worms (heartworms) that live in the heart, lungs and blood vessels of affected pets.
It’s transmitted from pet to pet by mosquitos.
But even though we’re not in mosquito season, heartworm preventative is a year-round necessity, as it also helps prevent other common parasites.
If you’ve got a small dog, or one without much fur, think about a coat and/or booties to help keep them warm as the temperature drops.
These extra layers are more than just a fashion statement, they can help keep your dog more comfortable in the cooler weather.
Speaking of lower temps, now is not the time to start skipping walks.
Sure, it’s tempting to just let your dog out in the yard to do his business, especially when it’s chilly outside, but your dog needs regular exercise each day to maintain a healthy weight.
And finally, if you’re going to be handing out Halloween candy next week, please take steps to keep it away from your pup, especially if you plan to give out chocolate.
You see, chocolate contains alkaloids called methylxanthines that are toxic to dogs.
Even just a little bit of chocolate can stop a dog’s metabolic process and cause diarrhea and vomiting. And a large amount can result in seizures, irregular heart function, and even death.
Many dogs are undeterred from candy wrappers, so keep the candy well out of reach.
With all that’s going on right now, I’m glad to see folks focusing on their health.
Just make sure the health of your dog is also a priority during these unsettling times.
After all, you want them around as long as possible.
Comments
Leave a comment