Keeping your dog fit

Keeping our pets fit can be as challenging as keeping ourselves fit, but we owe it them and to ourselves. After all, we want our dog around as long as possible. And we want to keep them as healthy as possible their entire life.

By working with your veterinarian you should be able to come up with a plan to best suit you and your pet.

Educating yourself before you talk with your vet can help you develop a wonderful relationship based on teamwork.

Maintain Proper weight

Is your pet overweight?

Pet obesity is an epidemic paralleling that in the human population in the U.S.

There is a definitive scale professionals use to rate canine physical body condition called the The Body Condition Scale. A number from 1-9 is used to describe your dog's weight.

Ask your vet if your dog is at his ideal weight.

What can you do?

A good practice to get in the habit of is to feel your dogs ribs before you feed him/her. Can you easily feel the ribs? Was she really active today or was it more of a lay around the house kind of day? Does he need more calories or less calories? Feed accordingly.

Exercise

Exercising Safely

Dogs need exercise, but just like humans, they need the appropriate exercise for them. Young pups need to protect their growth plates. Pups don't know this, they think they're indestructible. It's YOUR job to know what's best for your dog and then to not let him talk you into jumping off that deck for the Frisbee! Older dogs may have chronic pain or injuries to consider. Again, it's YOUR job to do the best for your cherished companion.

What should I consider

How old is your dog? The old adage "Slow as they grow" is a good one. Talk to your vet about how much activity is good for your dog at his age. Pups and older dogs may have some restrictions.

What breed is your dog? Certain breed characteristics will affect recommended activities. Dogs with long backs such as dachshunds are more susceptible to spinal issues. Dogs with short faces need more consideration for respiratory activities. They can overheat more quickly.

What should I do to warm up my dogs muscles? What kind of stretches are appropriate? Just like humans need to stretch and warm up before we go sprinting off, your dog should too.

Is the activity safe? If you throw the ball in the direction of the woods, is there a chance the dog will overshoot the ball and impale himself on a stick?

Nutrition

Dogs are not vegetarians. They are omnivores. They eat meat & vegetables. There is a lot of information out there on diet. Educate yourself. Whether you decide to feed kibble, a commercial raw diet or BARF (Bones And Raw Food), do your research.

General Health

Vaccinations

Vaccines are a hot topic in canine health these days. There are many considerations. If you choose to do titers or vaccinations, don't overlook a simple wellness exam to keep your dog at her healthiest.

Dental

Remember those pearly whites! Dental health can affect overall health. Keeping your dog's teeth clean and brushed will keep him healthier.