Our pets are part of our family, so when it comes to their health, of course we want to make sure they always feel good.

They are our life companions and we, as pet owners, are gatekeepers for their wellbeing. So, are we 100% confident we are doing whatever it takes to protect them from harm?

There have been many new pet owners during the pandemic who may be learning that their pets’ health can, in some circumstances, prove to be fragile and sensitive to season changes. Perhaps that’s you.

There may be congenital conditions, or our pets may require timely interventions to prevent the contraction of serious diseases.

As our animals are unable to use verbal communication, it is our responsibility to interpret small signals that, if ignored or underestimated, can lead to alarming wake-up-calls.

As a pet owner, we play a crucial role in protecting the health of our beloved friends, but if you are not sure you’re doing the right thing, having some tips and guidelines is a good start.

Here are three simple steps you can take to ensure your pet’s health is always under control.

1) STOP disease getting to your pet:

It might sound obvious but: keep in touch with your vet. Veterinary and pet professionals can give us support and provide expert care to our pets to prevent and stop disease and protect their health and welfare. Their expertise means they understand your pet’s specific needs in terms of dietary requirements, for example. Vets can also give you advice on how to improve a pet’s living environment and level of exercise to guarantee a happy and healthy life. How we access our vet may often have changed in the pandemic, but they are still very much there for you and your pet.

2) EQUIP animals to fight disease:

Vaccinate your pet and schedule periodical treatments against the most common parasites. Vaccines are the most effective way to keep our pets healthy, as they act on the animal’s immune system, building stronger and stronger defences against illness, if done regularly and kept up to date. Again, your vet will recommend what vaccines your pet needs.

3) TREAT animals appropriately when disease is unavoidable:

If things get rough, be ready to fight and support your companion. Sometimes diseases are inevitable no matter how good we’ve been at trying to prevent them. Often this can be unexpected, but some conditions mean a slower deterioration. If your pet is unwell, remember to keep calm: they can feel your concern which can cause them additional stress. Contact your vet straight away: they will give you advice. They may ask you to come in and can recommend the right medicines and specific treatments according to your pet’s needs. Follow thoroughly the indications and guidelines given by your vet and carry out any treatment in full.

Follow this simple guide, share it with your pet owning friends and family and together, let’s keep our pets as healthy and happy as possible.

National Pet Month: Pets and People Caring For Each Other

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