We all wish our pets could live forever, but until we discover the fountain of youth, we’ll have to settle for giving our pets the longest and happiest lives possible. Wellness care, proper nutrition, and exercise are a good start down the path of longevity. Read on to discover additional tips from our Milford Animal Hospital team to help your pet enjoy a long, healthy life.

1. Schedule regular wellness visits for your pet

Adult pets need routine wellness check-ups at least once a year so we can effectively monitor their health, and young and elderly pets may require more frequent visits. A wellness visit involves a head-to-tail exam, during which we assess your pet’s overall health. We will observe your pet’s general appearance, listen to their breathing and heartbeat, and evaluate specific areas of their body to rule out any abnormalities. We may also recommend bloodwork and other screening tests that allow us to identify and treat problems before they progress. Wellness visits also include vaccinations and parasite prevention that protect your pet from a variety of diseases and infections. 

2. Spay or neuter your pet

Spaying or neutering your pet is highly recommended, as it prevents various hormone-related conditions and reproductive diseases, and can even increase their lifespan. Spaying and neutering pets also helps control the number of homeless pets. The appropriate time to spay or neuter your pet will depend on their size and breed, but the procedure should generally be performed early in their life. Our Milford Animal Hospital team can help you determine the best time to have your pet spayed or neutered. 

3. Schedule regular dental cleanings for your pet

Dental hygiene in pets is often overlooked, but a healthy mouth is vital for your pet’s health. You should brush your pet’s teeth with pet-safe toothpaste at least three times per week, but brushing daily is best. In addition to at-home care, your pet will need regular professional dental cleanings. Most pets require dental cleanings every one to two years, although some pets need more frequent cleanings. We will evaluate your pet’s dental health during their wellness exam and let you know if they are due for a dental cleaning. 

4. Maintain your pet at a healthy weight

More than half of U.S. dogs and cats are overweight or obese, and the extra pounds put these pets at risk for a variety of health issues. Studies show that dogs who are fed less and maintained at a healthy weight live an average of 2.5 years longer than those who are free-fed. If that’s not an incentive to keep your pet fit and trim, we’re not sure what is!

All pets need daily exercise and a healthy diet. The amount and type of exercise appropriate for your pet depends on their size and breed. Small adult dogs generally need about 30 minutes of exercise each day, while larger dogs may require up to two hours. Cats should exercise about 30 minutes each day, split into several five to 10-minute play sessions. 

All pets require a a diet with a balanced ratio of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to keep them healthy and replenish their energy. Choose a pet food that contains a statement from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), which confirms the diet adheres to standards set by nutrition experts. Ask our team to help you determine how many calories your pet needs each day, or use a calorie calculator, and measure each meal with a measuring cup to avoid overfeeding your pet.   

5. Provide mentally stimulating activities for your pet

Your pet needs a variety of toys and games to keep them mentally stimulated and healthy. As pets age, their cognitive function can decline, and mental exercise can be just as important as physical exercise to preserve your pet’s brain function. Dogs may enjoy chewing on pet-safe toys, solving puzzles, sniffing out hidden treats, and socializing with other dogs. Cats enjoy indulging their wild instincts by climbing cat trees, kneading scratching posts, and chasing electronic toys that mimic prey.  Periodically rotate your pet’s toys to prevent them from becoming bored with the same old activities. 

If you already practice these tips, congratulations—your pet is on the road to a long, healthy life by your side! If not, now is the time to form new habits that will give you more time with your beloved companion. If you have any questions or want to schedule your pet’s next wellness visit, contact Milford Animal Hospital. We’ll help you provide your pet the healthy life they deserve.