Pet Care Tips
Did You Know
When you choose to adopt a pet from an animal shelter or rescue group, you’re not just giving a forever home to one animal; you’re also saving the lives of two beings. The pet you adopt finds a loving home and, equally importantly, you create space for a homeless animal to be rescued and offered the same chance for a better life. Your adoption decision has a ripple effect of compassion and hope.
Engaging in routine at-home dental care for your pet can significantly enhance their oral health and extend the time between visits for professional dental cleanings.
Companion animals are afforded the opportunity to enjoy longer, healthier lives, thanks in part to the accessibility of vaccines that provide vital protection against life-threatening infectious diseases.
Your Pet’s Health
Your home can hold a lot of unrecognized danger for your pet. Many common food items or household products can sicken or even kill animals. However, a few simple precautions can help keep your pet safe.
Because flea infestations involve multiple life stages, an effective treatment strategy targets as many stages as possible. If you believe your pet is infested with fleas, begin with a trip to your veterinarian.
Gastrointestinal parasites can cause serious illness in pets and some parasites can infect humans. Any new pet entering your home should be tested for parasites as soon as possible and treated if parasites are found.
Dogs
You’re not the only one who needs an ID when traveling. Your dog should always wear an ID tag inscribed with your contact information.
Daily exercise is a must for your dog. The average adult dog needs a total of 40 to 60 minutes of moderate exercise each day. Whether they enjoy walking or running on a leash, visiting a dog park, or playing fetch in a fenced yard, get them moving. They will live longer and not chew up your stuff out of boredom.
How would you like it if you ate the same boring meal everyday? Perhaps, you may want to feed your pet human foods that are healthy and provide for a more balanced diet. Simple everyday items such as raisins, certain nuts and even various brands of peanut butter are absolutely toxic for dogs. Know which foods are acceptable and what foods to avoid.
Like us, dogs need to brush their teeth every day. Use dog-specific toothpaste or gel for best results. Never use your toothpaste—it contains xylitol, a harmful chemical that can kill your dog.
Puppies
Training your puppy? Remember the three Ps: praise, patience, and perseverance.
If your pet is chewing up your furniture, shoes and other things, try bitter apple spray. It doesn’t stain and it’s odorless.
Also, correct the act with a firm “no!” and divert attention with a chew toy. When your puppy chews the toy, praise! Never hit or scold your pet. Positive reinforcement is 100% more effective.
Looking to add a four-legged companion to your family? Remember, your new best friend could be waiting at a local humane society or animal shelter. Make sure the pet is scanned for a microchip first as it may be another family’s pet. If not, have a Peeva microchip implanted in your pet and locate a Peeva participating veterinarian to take advantage of the numerous benefits, such as instant access to your pets medical information.
How much should your puppy eat each day? Check their food bag to find out. Start with these pet care guidelines, and be sure to consult your veterinarian.
Cats
When tidying the toilet, keep your cat away—and keep the lid shut! Toilet cleaning solution can be deadly to cats (and other pets) if ingested.
Be sure to serve your cat premium nutrition that contains taurine, an amino acid essential to their health. Fine china is optional, of course.
Brush or comb your cat once a week (daily for longhaired cats) to limit their fur intake and reduce hairballs.
You can leash-train your cat by using a cat-specific figure-eight harness and a lightweight leash. Work slowly, use lots of positive reinforcement, and never pull or drag your cat.
A lit candle could ignite your cat’s fur as they brush past or even attract a curious paw swipe. Use candles with extreme caution. Never leave one unattended!
Kittens
Kittens are ready for adult cat nutrition after their first birthday. Gradually increase the amount of new nutrition each day until their dietary transition is complete.
Kittens love a plastic pole with a string and a feather attached. Dangle it in front of them—the fun never ends! Never leave your kitty alone with a string toy.
Don’t allow your kitten to “play” with your hand, as it encourages aggressive behavior toward people. Nibbles from grown-up cats aren’t so cute!
Choosing a litter box for your kitty? Select one that gives them plenty of room (at least 24 inches wide or long) to turn around and scratch litter over their waste.
There’s no need to “litter train” your kitten. Just show them where the litter box is and instinct should take over. If your kitten fails to use it, consult your veterinarian.