Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/13061
JULY 2010 HEALTH & HAPPINESS 78 WRITTEN BY DR. GREG PERRAULT A HEALTHY PET The special bond we share with our pets enriches our lives, our physical health and our emotional well being. Studies have shown that our health and happiness improves while we take care of our pets. Pets help lower our blood pressure, reduce stress and prevent heart disease. They help us fight depression and loneliness, and can even help us recover faster from major illness. Our pets bring us happiness, companionship, protection and love — that is why it is vital we look out for their health as they grow older with us. As a local veterinarian, I would like to offer 10 simple steps that will ensure a happy and healthy life for your pet. 1. Create A Budget — Plan ahead. Start a health savings account for your pet. $25 to $50 per month will come in handy for unexpected emergencies. You may also want to explore pet insurance for emergencies and unexpected illness. 2. Physical Exams And Dental Care Are Important — Barring any illness, plan on at least one check-up per year for your dog or cat up to age seven, and at least two check- ups per year thereafter. Dental prophylactic cleaning usually starts at three or four years of age, and future cleanings will vary with each pet. 3. Don't Forget Vaccinations — Puppy and kitten boosters should be given to all pets during their first year. After that, some vaccines may be given less frequently than once per year. When possible, give fewer vaccines at one time. For cats, request non-adjuvented vaccines. They may be safer than traditional vaccines. 4. Monitor Flea Control — Flea control given every month is the best, least expensive way to keep your pet healthy. Flea prevention has never been safer for you and your pet. Fleas not only feed on your pet, they can transmit disease. 5. Keep An Eye Out For Heartworm And Internal Parasites — Heartworm is a deadly parasite transmitted by mosquitoes, and we are seeing more cases every year in Southern California. Inexpensive and safe preventives are available for your pet. Many of these medicines will also treat intestinal parasites, such as roundworms and hookworms, which can be harmful to people. 6. Maintain Your Pet's Diet — Obesity in pets is an epidemic in this country. Portion control and limiting treats will help maintain a proper body weight. Your pet's diet should match their energy requirements, as well as any health issues they have. Check with your veterinarian for what's best for your pet. 7. Exercise With Your Pet — Exercise is just as important for your pet as it is for you. Most dogs should get 30 minutes of brisk walking twice per day. It's a good way to monitor your pet's cardiovascular fitness. If your pet seems FACES & PLACES : PETS & PEOPLE winded, have them checked for heart disease or arthritis. Laser pointers, feather toys, empty boxes or paper bags will get your cat moving. Cats can't seem to resist exploring new things. 8. Mental Stimulation And Emotional Health Are Key — Sometimes overlooked, mental stimulation plays a big part of your pet's happiness and well-being. Playing games such as tug-of- war or fetch will create a bond that pets need. Happy pets will have fewer health problems and behavioral issues, such as barking or destructive tendencies. A happy cat will have fewer urinary health issues and accidents outside the box. 9. Weekly Check Ups Are Good — Weigh your pet and record it weekly. Changes in weight could be an early sign of disease. Check for lumps and bumps. Look in their ears and mouth for anything abnormal. Problems caught early are easier to treat. 10. Pet-Proof Your House — Assume anything within reach may become a chew toy for your pet. Electric cords are obvious, but even discarded dental floss may lead to an obstruction if eaten. There are two plants that are highly toxic to pets. Lilies will kill your cat. Any part of the lily — even if just chewed — may lead to kidney failure and death in your cat. Cycad palms can cause liver failure and death in dogs. By following these simple steps for your pet's health and well-being, the happiness you will give your pet will return to you ten-fold. n Photo courtesy of Dr. Greg Perrault. Dr. Greg Perrault owns and operates Cats & Dogs Animal Hospital at 627 Redondo Avenue.