Wouldn’t it be great if dogs came with little “how to” booklets? There are so many important things to know when it comes to the health and well-being of your pet that taking care of him can seem overwhelming. Here are some of the key health recommendations I routinely discuss with my clients and new dog owners.
Tip #1 Develop a relationship with a trusted veterinarian
Having a good relationship with a veterinarian is a critical part of your dog’s health. Research has shown that annual examinations (even if your pet doesn’t seem to be ill) help dogs live longer and healthier lives. They also help you and your dog develop a bond of trust and ease with the doctor.
Consider looking for an Integrative Veterinarian, one who has studied and uses many different modalities besides “conventional” medicine and surgery. Holistic methods include acupuncture, homeopathy, nutritional supplementation, and more.
This approach is especially important if your dog is getting older or develops an illness or injury for which conventional medicine or surgery is not the best choice. A good veterinarian should support your decision to obtain a second opinion and explore all options, even if it’s just to help you feel completely convinced of the medical choices you are being asked to make for your dog.
If your pet is diagnosed with cancer or another serious illness, or if surgery is being recommended, you should feel comfortable asking for more information, including recommendations on where to go for a second opinion.
Tip #2 Don’t over vaccinate your dog
One of the reasons to have a trusted veterinarian is to discuss the pros and cons of different vaccinations for your dog. These days, veterinary clinics can have vastly differing opinions about the best vaccine protocol for your pet. It is often frustrating and scary for dog parents to try to find unbiased information on this topic, especially from veterinarians and on the Internet.
There have been clinical trials to test the efficacy and length of immunity in some of the vaccines available. We now know that many pets can receive far fewer vaccines than were previously recommended. Discuss “core” versus “non-core” vaccines with your vet to learn what your dog really needs to be safe and protected.
Your veterinarian can also inform you about local regulations regarding rabies vaccination, which is often legally required due to public health concerns. However, exceptions can be made in the case of terminally ill patients.
Another option to discuss with your doctor is vaccine titers as an alternative to annual vaccinations. Remember: You have a choice when it comes to most vaccines so it is wise to learn all the options.
Tip #3 Feed a high-quality diet and prevent obesity
We are so lucky to live in a time when a variety of healthy “holistic” pet food options are available for purchase. That being said, many dogs benefit the most from a well-balanced, home-prepared, whole food diet using organic ingredients.
I spend over an hour with my clients discussing canine dietary options and encourage them to consider their lifestyles and pick the healthiest diet they can realistically feed their dogs on a consistent basis.
The best of intentions fail your pet when you pick up generic kibble from the grocery store because you ran out of time to purchase whole food ingredients. If you do opt for commercial foods, just remember to read the labels and make sure “real” foods are listed first.
Remember, food is often the best preventative medicine!
Tip #4 Exercise regularly and enrich your dog’s life with stimulating activities
Your dog needs physical exercise and mental stimulation daily. Just turning him out into the back yard isn’t enough! Consider hiring a dog walker if your work schedule is too busy for daily walks, but don’t forget that one of the gifts our dogs give us is an incentive to move our own bodies. Daily walks prevent obesity and improve the health and well being of you both.
Training sessions and playing games with your dog on a regular basis are two great ways to keep him mentally agile and also help build a strong bond of fun and love between you.
Tip #5 Protect your dog from himself or herself
Having a dog is very different than having a child, but many of the same basic safety principles apply. If you drive with your dog, make sure he or she is safely secured in your car with a seat belt (in the back seat to protect her from air bags) or in a travel crate.
Dogs love to sit up front, untethered and on your lap if possible, but this is extremely dangerous. I have seen the tragic results of so many accidents that could have been prevented with a simple canine seat belt or secured crate.
Your home can be just as dangerous as your car for dogs. It is extremely important to “dog-proof” your house, garage, and yard. Is the fencing secure? Are there any toxins or pesticides they can get into? Can they rummage through the garbage or get into food storage cabinets at will?
It may seem obvious but is worth mentioning: Always keep your dog on a leash near traffic or in large crowds. Even in familiar surroundings, your dog can excitedly dash off and the results could be disastrous.
Tip #6 TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS
Finally, remember to trust your instincts. If you have a feeling that there is something “off” with your pet’s health, take him to a veterinarian who will take your concerns seriously.
Your dog’s regular veterinarian should welcome phone calls and all questions. And a good vet will find the right person to refer you to for help if she doesn’t know the answers.
Dr. Jenny Taylor is the owner and founder of Creature Comfort Holistic Veterinary Center in Oakland and is a pioneer in integrative/holistic veterinary care in the Bay Area. She can be reached at 510-530-1373.
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