...of minimizing visits to your vet!

I was just reading this article (I love you, but we need to spend more time apart!) about what to do to keep your horse in good condition to avoid extra visits to the veterinarian. It got me thinking about what dog owners should do to keep their dogs in peak condition, too. What would you add to my list? How about you cat owners? What should you do for the kitties?

Keeping dogs healthy on a daily basis(in no particular order):

1) Daily exercise - just 15 minutes of exercise per day will extend the healthy life of your dog. Exercise can be a walk, a run, a game of chase or fetch, or whatever your dogs enjoys that gets him moving.

2) Fresh water - the water bowl should be replenished with fresh water at least once a day. Make sure your dog has access to water as much as possible. It's good for them and it helps flush toxicants out of their systems.


3) Feed the best food you can afford. Consider supplementing your dog's diet with vegetables and fruit to help give him a natural source of vitamins. Just like we should do, try to cut back on the processed food in your dog's diet.

4) Give each dog in your household individual attention every day. Get to know her special personality. Brush her coat (and her teeth!) and check her over for lumps and bumps and look in her ears, and even practice a few obedience commands. Just a few minutes a day will increase your bond with her and will help you discover any issues more quickly.

5) Feed your dog once or twice a day (instead of free-feeding) and watch him eat. Learn his eating pattern so that you can tell quickly when he is losing his appetite or may have trouble chewing or swallowing. This will also help him to be on a regular "potty" schedule, too.

6) Establish a routine. Dogs prefer routine. Get in a habit of doing the above every day.

7) Once a week, check your dog's leash and collar, his toys, bedding, the fence, the yard, your house, etc. for anything hazards. Make sure the collar fits properly, that the ID tags are not ready to fall off (or already missing!) and that the buckle works properly. Make sure your leash isn't frayed and about to break with one good tug. Check your fence for breaks or holes being dug. Make sure toys and bedding aren't coming apart so he won't choke on parts or swallow something he shouldn't. Ensure that his crate closes securely. Finally, make a sweep of your house and remove all potential hazards from dog level.

Just a few minutes a day can keep your dog healthy and happy and out of the vet's office. Although we love our vets  (shout out to Drs. Tom and Sue at East Hilliard Veterinary Services !) , let's try to keep our interactions to annual check-ups and holiday greeting cards!!