health tips
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Our Top 10 Health Tips

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Our pets depend on us to take care of them. Their health and happiness depends on the decisions we make for them. Our Top 10 Health Tips will help you, help your pet live a long and healthy, happy life.

 

1 Eat well! Like the saying goes, "You are what you eat". Nutrition for our pets is probably the single most important health decision we make for our pets. Good nutrition means better health. Plus a good healthy diet may reduce vet bills as your pet ages.

You may not see the difference immediately but over time a healthy diet can make all the difference to your pet.

When buying pet foods look at the ingredients. Look for foods with real meat, fish, or eggs listed as the first or second ingredient and avoid empty fillers.

Also avoid any bi-products and any food that lists "meat" as an ingredient and doesn't specify what that meat actually is.

We also recommend that you stay away from any ingredients that are not natural. Your pet will thrive on a diet without chemicals and food colouring.

 

 

 

2Think ahead. Sometimes the best health decision is preventative. Try to deal with problems before they become major issues. Some joint and skin conditions can be helped with the use of nutritional supplements.

For example, arthritis may benefit from the glucosamine, chondroitin and Omega-3 fatty acids can be beneficial for certain skin conditions.

Dental problems, such as plaque buildup or unpleasant "doggy breath" can be kept under control with diligent home care. Our dental treats and toys can help you with your at-home care. And don't forget the ears. Regular ear care may save you an unplanned trip to the veterinarian for an ear infection.

 

 

 

3Pay attention to tiny pests. Fleas and ticks are more then a nuisance; they can cause serious problems, ranging from mild skin irritations to life threatening diseases.

Flea allergy dermatitis, the most common cause of itching and scratching in dogs and cats, can be caused by fleas. Ticks may transmit numerous diseases, including Lyme disease.

Be diligent about flea/tick prevention and heartworm but do it in a healthy way. Flea control programs from the vets often use harsh chemicals that poison a pet's blood so that when the flea bites the pet it will die. There are all natural pest killers available such as neem and diatomaceous earth. Garlic pills, tea tree oil and citronella colllars can help control a flea and tick problem in a healthy way.

 

 

 

3Choose the best veterinary care. Annual veterinary visits are a must for any pet. Your veterinarian may pick up on health problems you can't detect, and early treatment will probably mean less money spent down the road.

 

 

 

3 Take out the brush more often. It takes a bit of time but daily grooming may help prevent a variety of problems, from dry skin to painful and unsightly matting or even hot spots.

When grooming choose products that will not harm the sensitive environment of your pet's skin. We offer a myriad of environmentally friendly grooming products from brushes, clippers and combs to natural, biodegradable shampoos and conditioners.

 

 

 

3Be diligent and alert. The best defense against many health issues is being observant. By observing your pet daily you become knowledgeable about your pet. You will be able to notice any changes in eating patterns, behavior, and elimination.

Even subtle differences can be early indicators of disease. If you can diagnose and treat a problem earlier it can save you and your pet from more complex diagnostics and treatment.

 

 

 

3Keep teeth clean. Dogs and cats can suffer from the same dental problems as we do, including pain, infection and tooth loss.

If left untreated, poor dental hygiene can lead to disease in the heart, lungs, kidneys and liver.

While bones and toys help reduce plaque accumulation, you may need to brush your pet's teeth daily to prevent dental problems. Use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste specially formulated for animals.

We also carry wonderful products that you simply add to your pet's food or water so there's no need for a toothbrush at all.

 

 

3Give in to some fun. Having fun and getting some exercise is as important for pets.

Not only does it help prevent obesity and other health problems, but it also builds your relationship with your pet.

You can increase the fun factor by purchasing toys specifically designed for your pet's personality and age.

 

 

3Make your home safe. Your home environment can be dangerous for your pets. Plants, pesticides, medications, antifreeze, low electrical cords and small objects animals could choke on are all hazzards for your pet. Safeguard your home to eliminate these dangers. If you need to use general cleaners there are all natural, non-toxic cleaners such as Orange A'Peel for pet stains and smells. These are incredibly effective and can be used throughout your home.

Even the litter you use for your cat can be harmful. We recommend using all natural biodegradable litters that are clay and dust free. Dust free litters are safer on your pet and the environment.

 

 

3Have a heart. The most important way to keep your pet healthy is to give them lots of love. Spend time with them. Include them in your family activities. Make them a part of your daily life so they have an enjoyable and interesting day.

Remember, in order to be truly healthy, your dog or cat needs to be happy.