You might be hearing news or studies about the beneficial health results of looking after pets. Plenty of research shows pet ownership can reduce social isolation and blood pressure, help people stay physically active, and more. These mentioned perks can reduce the major risk factors of stroke and heart disease, and there are even studies that show taking care of pets can potentially help you live longer.
However, a pet’s heart requires attention, too, so they can live their best lives despite their short life span. Now, let’s look at simple ways to keep your pooch’s heart in good condition.
Five Tips to Keep Your Dog’s Heart Healthy
Like health-conscious people that practice good habits to remain healthy, so do your beloved pet. Your pooch is a great part of your family, so protecting their heart is as vital as protecting yours. Here are five simple guidelines we have organized to better improve and maintain your pet’s heart health.
1. Schedule veterinary exams frequently
Canines age speedier than we do. Every 1 year to people is 4 to 8 years to them. Going that long without taking them to veterinarians for an examination is not good. So it’s essential to bring your canine to a full-service veterinary hospital for their checkup at least twice a year, particularly if it is a senior pooch, to monitor their health and condition.
2. Feed them a healthy diet
A healthy mind and body begin with healthy diet plans. Nutrition plays a vital role, from skin and coat to the effective functioning of their organs and joint health. Being overweight is the number one enemy of a healthy heart, so ensure your pet gets balanced yet top-quality food and keep their treats to a minimum. Contact your veterinarian for recommendations if you’re having difficulty creating a healthy diet plan for your pet, particularly if they need to reduce weight.
3. Exercise with them daily
Canines with a healthy weight do not automatically mean they’re fit. Fitness requires various physical activities, including cardiac exercises to stretch their muscles and joints and keep their heart healthy. This part is not tough to do, as canines like cardio. You can always trust them to join you in jogging, running, swimming, walking, flyball, and agility.
These exercises can keep your pet’s heart healthy and pumping. However, exercising with your canine should be done in moderation. If you discover uncommon movements in your pet after doing some exercises, take them to an emergency vet care facility to be examined. You may browse the web for more info about animal centers specializing in pet urgent care.
4. Prioritize their dental care
Dental illness in canines is more rampant at the ages of 4 and 9 and is connected with a heart problem. The infection in a dog’s mouth and accumulation of plaque and tartar can enter the bloodstream, later triggering heart disease.
Always observe and maintain your pet’s oral care routine and see a veterinary dentist instantly if you see mouth problems like sore gums, foul breath, excessive drooling, and bleeding.
5. Prevent heartworm disease
Heartworm disease is carried by mosquitoes. This can trigger inflammation of the blood vessels, blood flow restriction, coronary infarction, and pulmonary embolism. Thankfully, heartworm disease is now easier to prevent with just a topical product once each month or a simple pill prescribed by veterinarians.
