Pet Care Resolutions for the New Year

• Make sure your pet receives a complete check-up every year. The annual physical exam is often the most overlooked pet health need today. Many people only take their pet to a veterinarian when a health problem already exists or for routine vaccinations. Preventive vaccinations and early detection of diseases are the keys to successfully treating your pet. Your veterinarian can conduct a comprehensive exam that includes lab analysis, heart check and dental exam.
  
• Design a diet and pet exercise plan to meet your pet’s specific needs. Obesity leads to serious health problems such as heart disease. Exercise is important, but a pet will only exercise if there is an incentive to do so. Your veterinarian will consider what stage of life your pet is in, the amount of activity your pet enjoys, and the time of year before outlining a specific plan. The right kind of food and physical activity can add to the quality of your pet’s life.
  
• Make your home a safe environment. Unfortunately, making your home pet-safe often is a job that is overlooked. Pet-proofing your home can lower the risk of a serious pet accident occurring. A pet owner needs to be aware of several potential dangers. Poisons in the home that can kill or seriously injure your pet include some kinds of house plants (dieffenbachia, philodendron, hyacinth, mistletoe, and poinsettia), antifreeze, and medications. Low electrical cords are extremely hazardous when chewed. Ceiling fans, over-heated Teflon cookware, and many cleaning sprays can also be dangerous to pet birds. Keep harmful objects out of your pet’s reach. A little prevention may be just enough to avoid a pet tragedy from happening in your home.