Pet Pointers: General Pet Tips

Proper pet care may seem very basic - our pets need food, water, medical care and lots of love. However, they have other needs too, such as ample physical exercise and mental stimulation to lead a long, happy and healthy life. It is important for pet owners to take the proper steps to ensure their furry friends are happy and healthy. As such, Heidi Ganahl, CEO and Founder of Camp Bow Wow, the nation's largest pet care franchise, has created a series of useful tips regarding general pet wellness.

1. Regular Health Checks - Even if you think your pet is healthy, make sure to take your pet to your veterinarian at least once a year for a checkup. Getting a regular checkup will ensure that any potential issues are detected early.
2. Healthy Diet - Many dog foods contain sugar and other ingredients that can cause obesity and health issues for your pet. Work with your veterinarian or other trusted sources to determine the food that will fit your pet's needs while keeping them healthy. Also, follow the feeding instructions on the food's bag to ensure you are not overfeeding your pet.
3. Exercise - Taking your pet for a daily brisk walk or a fun run goes a long way in keeping your pet healthy. Exercise keeps your pet's weight down, reduces digestive issues, and decreases problem behaviors (like chewing, digging and barking).
4. Healthy Weight - Approximately 54% of pets are overweight, according to The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. If your dog becomes overweight, it creates stress on their joints and can lead to additional health problems, such as heart disease, high blood pressure and a decreased life expectancy. To tell if your pet is at a good weight, you should be able to look at them from above and see a waist, as well as run your fingers over their body while pressing down lightly and be able to feel their ribs.
5. Vaccinate Your Pet - There are deadly diseases that your pet can contract, so keeping all of their vaccinations up-to-date will help ensure your pet is safe and healthy.
6. Teeth Cleaning - Plaque and tartar build up on your dog's teeth can lead to serious health issues. Start preventative care early on, including brushing their teeth, providing dental treats, or giving them a rubber toy (like a KONG®) to chew on. Your vet will check your dog's teeth at their yearly checkup, and it's important to get them professionally cleaned when your veterinarian says it's time.