Many people tend to think that dogs are tough and can handle any harsh environment.
In fact, our past experiences typically refer to dogs living in free-range or wild conditions, but once dogs and their owners settle into high-rise urban living, these experiences no longer apply. Dogs’ health can become more fragile, leading to issues such as poor digestion, obesity, enteritis, and even high blood pressure or high uric acid in older dogs.
So, what health issues should we pay attention to when feeding our dogs? Here is a summary of key points:
Table of Contents
Prioritize Preventative Care
First, it is crucial to be aware of diseases like parvovirus and distemper, which are particularly harmful to puppies.
These diseases are often referred to as cancer in the dog world.
Therefore, timely vaccination according to the requirements is necessary to effectively prevent these diseases.
Second, timely rabies vaccination is essential. Rabies is a vaccine-preventable viral disease that affects both humans and animals, impacting the central nervous system.
Studies show that dogs are responsible for transmitting the rabies virus in 99% of human cases. Rabies can infect all mammals, including dogs, cats, livestock, and wild animals. It spreads through bites, scratches, or direct contact with mucous membranes (such as the eyes, mouth, or open wounds), typically through saliva. Once clinical symptoms appear, rabies is almost 100% fatal.
Therefore, to protect the safety of both your family and your dog, prevention is crucial.
Watch for Hidden Health Threats
Furthermore, skin diseases and arthritis are also concerns.
Due to their long fur, dogs are prone to hiding bacteria and other harmful microorganisms, especially if they suffer abrasions from outdoor activities or experience imbalances due to excessive exercise or improper nutrition.
These diseases are not always easy to detect, so it is important to take your dog for regular health check-ups to catch and prevent potential issues early.
Additionally, harmful microorganisms like mites should be monitored.
Dogs’ long hair can trap sweat or moisture from outdoor activities, making it harder for their coats to dry properly, leaving them vulnerable to parasites.
Owners should regularly check their dog’s skin and coat, and have a good understanding of daily care knowledge to spot any potential problems and prevent them.
Build Healthy Daily Habits
- Regular Feeding Schedule
Owners should establish a regular feeding routine based on their and their dog’s lifestyle, helping the dog develop consistent eating habits. This promotes digestive health and helps avoid overeating, which also controls the dog’s weight.
- Balanced Diet and Proper Meal Plan
Dog owners should choose food and dog food that suit their dog’s age, weight, breed, and activity level.
Ensuring nutritional balance and providing fresh water are important.
It’s also necessary to keep the water bowl clean and provide ample, clean drinking water at all times.
Don’t Skip the Small Stuff
- Companionship and Training
Owners should prioritize companionship and daily training for their dogs.
Keeping a dog confined to a kennel for extended periods can lead to health issues like indigestion or irritability.
Regular training improves the dog’s physical health and strengthens the bond with its owner, promoting healthy growth.
- Maintain Cleanliness and Hygiene
Dogs are also cleanliness-oriented. Regular baths and grooming are essential.
In addition, the dog’s living environment should be kept clean. Using safe, green biological enzyme deodorizers to spray on the dog’s area, toys, and activity zones helps eliminate harmful odors and bacteria, maintaining a fresh, healthy environment.
In summary, by providing thoughtful care and affection, dog owners can ensure the health and happiness of their dogs, creating a joyful living environment for them.
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