One of the biggest responsibilities that a person can have is to own a dog. Your dogs will always depend on you to make the best decisions for them on everything they do, from what they eat, what toys they play with, to the way their hair is cut.
We all know that all dog owners want the best for their dogs, and have the best intentions at heart, certain choices that seem simple and harmless may actually result in fewer years with you lovely friend.
Skipping Annual Vet Visits
Some dog owners think that taking their dogs to the vet when they seem perfectly healthy is a waste of time and money. However, as humans, there are some signs of illness that can not be seen. Your pup has the difficulty of not being able to communicate how they are feeling on the inside.
Letting your dog gain too much weight
Statistics from Association for Pet Obesity Prevention have shown that an estimated 53 percent of dogs were overweight last year. Carrying extra pounds can be dangerous for your pup and shorten your dog’s life, moreover, reduce the quality of the years you have with him. If you let your doggain much weight can suffer arthritis, exercise intolerance, diabetes, liver disease and high blood pressure.
Before your dog starts a diet or exercise routine, take your dog with the vet. An underlying cause like a thyroid condition could be the culprit. In addition, the vet will tell you how to improve your dogs condition.
American Humane Society reports have reported that an estimated 85% of dogs over the age of five suffer from periodontal disease caused by food, bacteria and plaque collecting at the gum line. It has been demonstrated that a build-up of oral bacteria can ultimately lead to all sorts of health problems for your dog, including heart valve problems and infections within the kidneys.
“Similarly a dog that has no human interaction, no fun, no playtime, can get depressed.” If there is something important dog owners forget to do is to let their pups make new friends not only with other dogs, but also with humans. One of the biggest problems with poorly socialized pets is a decreased quality of life. Walks, visits from guests and encounters with potential puppy playmates can be terribly frightening for dogs that aren’t used to be exposed with other dogs and humans.
The same that happens with humans can happen with dogs, canine lungs are not equipped to handle smoke being blown at them all day that is the reason why secondhand smoke can be a killer for dogs. Allergies, respiratory issues, heart disease and certain types of cancer can be some of the problems caused by toxins from cigarette smoke.
Pushing Certain your dog Too Hard
For dogs doing exercise is extremely important, however, you must know your dog’s limits. Small dogs tend to have more respiratory issues and are more likely to develop heat stroke than their longer muzzled cousins. However, middle and large sized dogs can have the same problems, thats why knowing your do limits is crucial for you.
Feeding Your dog with Unhealthy Foods
As humans, eating junk food once in a while is not bad at all. However, the problem is when your dog gets used to eat unhealthy food everyday. If you have a hard time saying no to those pleading eyes, offer your dog a healthy treat like baby carrots or apple slices.
Cars, coyotes, poisonous snakes, other dogs, unsavory humans with ill intentions are just some of the potential dangers out there to let your pup run loose. Is important to keep your dog on a leash at all times when walking him outside. If you take your dog to the park, you must be a responsible pet parent and make sure to monitor his play sessions.
Not Providing Your Dog With Enough Mental & Physical Exercise
Scientists have said that physical and mental stimulation is important for dogs. Physical and mental stimulation on a daily is important in order to maintain a healthy weight and keep them out of potentially hazardous mischief.
Dr. Kim Smyth, Petplan staff veterinarian, has said that exercise not only helps to keep the weight off, it also provides mental stimulation for your dog. She also explains that keeping up your pet’s fitness routine gives him a healthy way to expel energy.
