How to Have a Healthy Dog

Being the owner of a long hair Chihuahua, I have learned that the health of my dog is a major concern. At ten years of age, my dog Paco is beginning to feel the ravages of time. After consulting with friends and local vets, I found that dogs are much like humans where physical afflictions are concerned. They experience disease of the heart, lungs, eyes, bone and joint and can find themselves suffering from cancer. As a pet owner such possibilities weigh heavily on my mind. The same can be said for all pet owners. We can assure the healthy well being of our pets with a little observation and early treatment of any and all conditions.

Dependent upon specific breeds and their individual needs, general recommendations are made by the vet to guarantee good health for your pet. By following these tips you are well on the way to ensuring a long and healthful life for your pet. The basic suggestions include a good diet, exercise, observation and a whole lot of loving.

When feeding your dog, shy away from giving them any human foods. It is hard to deny them with those big brown eyes tearing at your heart strings. Feed your dog only dry dog foods such as the dry kibble type. Restrain from giving the wet type of foods so as to avoid digestive problems and rotting teeth. Definitely do not feed your dog any sweets (especially chocolates) raw pork, fish and chicken bones. These can be potential hazards to their life. Always, remember to have fresh water available no matter where they are.

Speaking for myself only, I am always in the need of a little exercise. What better way to kill two birds with one stone than by taking a brisk everyday with my dog. A small breed like my Chihuahua will create exercise for himself while inside the home. This is not so easy for the larger breeds. If you allow them to go outside during the day, observe whether they exercise or merely find a rest spot until it is time to return inside. Remember, having a pet is like having a child. It involves responsibility and commitment on your part. Encourage your dog to exercise whether either of you really feels like doing so. You will both benefit from it.

By paying attention to your dog's actions on a daily basis, you may avoid some very costly conditions. Check their behavior to see if they may be lethargic in their activities. Are they eating and drinking water normally? Have they ever experienced more than usual salivating, or physical seizures? Do they appear to be tearing more than usual? Check with your local vet if any of these conditions occur. They may be symptoms of something much worse. Have your dog checked for heartworms and even genetic conditions. Regular visits to the vet are recommended in conjunction with close record keeping of all visits, vaccinations and conditions.

The one thing I give my dog, every moment of every day, is a whole lot of loving. And, he loves me too. We have an almost symbiotic relationship with a lifelong bond that will not be broken. He came into my life and turned it upside down before making things completely right. His health and happiness is definitely linked to his well being. When that is not enough, I make sure to involve my local vet.

These are a few things that I know to hold true when caring for a dog or any other pet. Follow these simple suggestions and you, and your pet, will live long rewarding lives.

Mr Dprince is a pen name for Joe garcia. The tips above are those learned through real life conditions.

Source: Lots of good information at http://www.aspca.org/