Seven Steps to be a Good Pet Parent

Let’s face it, we love our pets! They’ve become another member of the family and we want them to be happy and healthy. We believe if you follow these seven simple rules, you’ll be off to a great start. Keep an eye out for future blogs on details for each of these steps or come by anytime to discuss your pets specific dietary or behavioral needs. We can assist you in designing a personalized diet taking into consideration your pet’s breed, their age, daily activities, and specific medical and behavioral conditions.

Seven steps to be a good pet parent:

  1. Make sure your pet wears a current ID tag and is also micro chipped. Visible ID tags save lives. Please don’t rely only on a microchip as many vets and shelters have different chip readers. There are many leashes, collars and harnesses available. We can help you find the right fit so that you can enjoy walking your dog.
  2. When walking your dog, always keep your dog on a leash. Wandering dogs may get into your neighbors garbage, can be hit by a car, run off, or get into a be attacked by another dog. It is just good manners to keep your dogs close to you and on a leash at all times.
  3. Your pet is an integral part of your family and deserves good quality foods and treats. Skimping on nutrition can result in skin allergies, digestive issues, and overall poor health. Premium dog foods do not contain cheap fillers or by-products. The top ingredients in premium pet food should include high quality animal proteins, whole grains, legumes or potatoes, along with vegetables and fruits. Most commercial pet foods contain animal by-products, cornmeal, corn gluten meal, wheat gluten and soybean. These are inexpensive fillers used as a meat alternative protein and are difficult to digest and lead to allergies causing skin irritation and costly vet visits and medications. If you’re unsure of what you are feeding your pet check the ingredient panel on your pet food bag.
  4. Incorporate our 3 Treats a Day Rule! Treats provide an opportunity for training and a way to reward good behavior. Dog chews can keep a dog entertained for hours while you away. Buy a chew and save a shoe!
  5. Monitor your pets on a daily basis – keep an eye on their appetite, watch when they go potty, and confirm they have the same attitude you know and love. Pets can hide illnesses so is important to keep a close eye on them each day while also allowing you time to bond with your pet.
  6. Pet-proof your home just as you childproof your home to ensure your dog or cat cannot get into common toxins such as rat poison, anti-freeze, medications (pet and human), and your trashcan. It is best to keep these out of their reach and in closed containers.
  7. Have an annual examination by your local vet. This enables your Vet to find any health issues earlier if they exist. Our Katy community is filled with many great vets for you to choose from.