Nothing is more difficult than watching your beloved pet suffer from any kind of disease. Indeed, pet diseases may have numerous causes – from genetic to environmental factors or lifestyle choices. Fortunately, you can significantly reduce the chances of having a pet that is sick with one of the common diseases with the necessary awareness and preventive measures. So here are 27 tips that will help you prevent the spread of different pet diseases.
Common Pet Diseases and Their Prevention
Common pet diseases are an everyday problem for all pet owners around the world. As stated by the American Pet Products Association, over 60% of American households have at least one pet, with dogs and cats being the most common kinds. Unfortunately, pets cannot avoid diseases, and such diseases as heartworms, fleas, ticks, parvovirus, distemper, and rabies are among the most widespread. However, you can prevent the development of the listed diseases, as well as many other diseases by taking necessary measures.
Vaccinations and Preventative Care
The first thing to think about when trying to prevent common diseases is your pet’s vaccination status. Vaccination is extremely important because it allows to prevent such diseases as parvovirus or rabies. The veterinarian will give you a special vaccination schedule based on the individual needs of your pet. Core vaccinations usually include such diseases as distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus, and such diseases as leptospirosis and Lyme disease belong to non-core vaccines.
Nutrition and Proper Diet
Nutrition and proper diet are the key to good health not only for humans but also for pets. It should be rich in such elements as protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Try to avoid excessive nutrition that leads to the development of various kinds of health issues associated with excess body mass. Commercial diets can be a good option, as well as homemade meals under the recommendation of the veterinarian.
Exercising and Mental Stimulation
Physical activity is also vital for the pet health. Not only exercising will help you to prevent overweight and obesity-related diseases, but it also promotes joint health. Moreover, mental stimulation prevents boredom and the development of bad habits. You should devote at least 30 minutes per day to these two activities.
Preventive Measures Associated with Environment
There are several environmental factors that contribute to pet diseases. Such pests as fleas, ticks, or mosquitoes may transmit numerous kinds of diseases, such as flea allergy dermatitis, tick-borne diseases, or heartworms. Therefore, try to make sure that your home stays clean, and do not forget about using appropriate preventative measures like flea and tick medications or heartworm prevention.
Socialization and Training
Your pet will feel better and healthier in case you socialize him/her regularly and conduct regular training sessions. Socializing allows pets to interact with other people or other pets or animals and get acquainted with different environments. Training, in its turn, will teach your pet the necessary commands and house manners. It is recommended to use positive reinforcement techniques during training as they will help you establish the required connection with the pet.
Grooming and Hygiene
It is also very important to pay special attention to your pet’s grooming and hygiene. Make it a habit to brush your pet regularly as this will help to avoid mats or tangles, reduce shedding, and detect possible skin problems. Do not forget about washing the pet and trimming his or her claws if necessary.
First Aid Kit and Emergency Management
Emergencies are sometimes inevitable. Therefore, every pet owner should be able to respond adequately in case of unexpected situations. Thus, prepare a first aid kit that would contain such things as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers. Also, remember about emergency contacts, such as your veterinarian or an animal hospital in your city or town.
Monitoring Health and Keeping Health Records
Another important preventive measure that will allow you to avoid the development of numerous diseases is monitoring your pet’s health. You will need to observe your pet on a regular basis, as well as keep records about your pet’s health, diseases, and test results. Thanks to this, your veterinarian will be able to monitor his or her health and recommend necessary actions that would help to prevent any diseases.
Genetic Predisposition
Finally, it is important to remember about your pet’s genetic predisposition to different diseases. Each kind has its own risks, so research these risks thoroughly and speak to your veterinarian about them. There are some cases where the disease cannot be avoided, but you can reduce the risks of its development by using proper measures.
Heartworm Prevention
As you know, the risk of heartworms is especially high among dogs that spend time outdoors. The easiest way to deal with this problem is to purchase heartworm prevention medicine for your dog. However, you should also consider conducting heartworm tests and eliminating standing water from your yard.
Dental Health Maintenance
Poor dental health is another reason for various diseases associated with kidneys or heart. To ensure proper dental health in your pets, brush your pet’s teeth regularly. Provide your pet with dental chews to keep his teeth healthy.
Flea and Tick Prevention
To prevent fleas and ticks from appearing in your pet’s fur, apply the appropriate treatment to your pet’s skin. Remember about using flea and tick medication as well.
Lepto Vaccine
Lepto is a bacteria-based disease, and the prevention of this condition can be achieved with the help of using the lepto vaccine. Besides, remember about avoiding places with high risks for lepto infection.
Kennel Cough Vaccines
This respiratory disease affects only dogs and can be prevented easily by ensuring your pet’s vaccinations up-to-date. Moreover, avoid kennels with high risks for this disease.
Preventing Intestinal Parasites
Various intestinal parasites can harm your pet greatly, so the main prevention step is deworming your pet. Also, it is necessary to eliminate all possible sources of parasites in your yard.
Preventing Obesity in Pets
Obesity and overweight are common issues for pets that do not move much. To prevent these problems, make your pet active and feed him properly.
Pet Travel Safety
During traveling, your pet should also be protected against any diseases. This means that you need to ensure your pet’s vaccines are always updated, use appropriate carriers and choose only pet-friendly accommodation facilities.
Adopting from a Shelter or a Rescue Center
Adoption from shelters or rescue centers can become an amazing experience. Just make sure that the pet you want has already had the necessary medical procedures.
