Did you just get a new dog or cat and are wondering how you’re going to cater for him or her to be a healthy, sociable, loving companion? Well look no further away. today’s article focuses on some tips on pet care and management
SHELTER
Everyone has a place to lay their head and so do our pets. There is the need to provide a comfortable resting place to protect them from the inclement elements of the weather. Dogs and cats especially like to roam around so there is a need to create a boundary, possibly a fence to keep them inside whilst giving them the opportunity to roam to their hearts desire. Space allocated to the pet needs to be cleaned constantly and kept dry. In light of this, also make provision for where your pet can ease itself and train them at an early stage on the use of the space. A litter box in the case of cats especially could be created filled with sand.
PROVISION OF FOOD & WATER
In order for our pets to live longer and have a healthy life, it is important to give them a well-balanced diet. The ration given to a puppy or kitten would not necessarily be the same as an adult pet. Prepared feed comes with all the appropriate nutrients needed for your pet whilst with self-prepared feed, there may be the need to add nutritional supplements since the feed may not have all the required nutrients. Also, we have to be cautious of the ingredients added to the feed as some are harmful to our pets.
Enquiries must be made on the type of feed being given to your pet from the previous owner so that there wouldn’t be a drastic change in the diet. When confused, seek help from the nearest veterinarian. Our pets also need water to live. Supply clean fresh water daily to keep your pet hydrated and healthy.
GROOMING
Grooming is needed, it keeps your pet neat and trim. Comb the fur of your dog, especially those with very long or curly fur. Some would require shaving of the fur to reduce the rate at which the fur gets matted. There is also the need to clip overgrown nails particularly in dogs. Bath your pet with recommended medicated shampoos to protect them from parasites in the environment at least every two to three-weeks. If you have problems grooming your pet, kindly send them to the vet or a grooming centre.
MEDICAL CARE
Send your pet to the veterinary hospital regularly for medical check-ups just as is done in humans. The vet will give you all the necessary information on vaccination schedules, deworming, and parasite control. You will have to keep all vaccination and deworming records always. You can settle on whether you want your pet to be neutered and discuss it with your vet. Contact your veterinarian when you notice any form of illness, injury, or abnormality.
EXERCISE
Get your pet exercised. Provide avenues for your pet to train itself. Send them on walks, release them to relax and explore. You can buy toys to engage them and help them keep active. It is a very good way to keep them healthy and avoid obesity.
LOVE AND CARE
Most importantly, give attention and love to your pet. They are social animals and need as much love and care to flourish. Constant communication also allows for early detection of anomalies and to plan for early interventions.