Pet Care

We're a nation of animal lovers and love to shower our pets with gifts and treats with many people treating them like real members of the family - which they are of course, but you know what I mean. I'm not sure whether the dogs appreciate being dressed up like Barbie and having their toe nails painted, but I'm sure that they enjoy the attention from their owners, no matter what they're doing, and many owners find a well groomed pooch or moggie the ultimate fashion accessory.

When we take on the responsibility of a dog or cat though, we are taking on much more than the need to feed them. Dogs and cats are limited in what choices they can make themselves about their own health care, and believe you me, they know what's good for them. Just occasionally we need to stand back and make sure that we are not killing our beloved pets with kindness.

Pet Care For Dogs And Cats - Obesity

Obesity is rife among the pampered pooches of today. Some people are so wrapped up in putting their chihuahua's into their custom made designer bag or pushing them along in a doggy stroller that they forget that these dogs, no matter what size or breed they are, are descendants of the wolf. They need exercise to keep them healthy, and they need good food. Obesity is one of the greatest dangers facing many of our pampered pets today, we feed them too much, we don't give them enough exercise, they get fat, it puts too much strain on their hearts, other organs and joints and bingo - the already short life-span of man's best friend is shortened even more, not to mention the quality of life which they have.

Pet Care For Dogs And Cats

So what do dogs and cats need to be happy and healthy?

1. Food - they need dog or cat food! They don't need pork chops and caviar. Dog and cat food is nutritionally balanced to meet all of their needs, the odd treat is fine but they do need their own stuff too.
2. Water - clean water should be accessible to your dog or cat at all times. Not too difficult to remember is it?
3. Exercise - all dogs need exercise, at least a couple of half hour walks per day if you don't have a large yard to play ball or throw a stick, and cats need exercise too. I know that some cats are inside cats and it isn't safe for them to venture outside, but you can still play with your cats and encourage them to move - they don't have to lie around sunning themselves all day long.
4. Bed - we all like somewhere to call our own don't we. A lovely warm bed where we can feel safe and secure and have a great nights sleep. Some people think it's a good idea to have their animals sleep in bed with them - that's a personal decision but these animals do need their own "space" where they can go and chill whenever they feel the need.
5. Toys and/or Chews - these are great for all animals, encouraging them to play, stopping them from getting bored and giving them a little much needed exercise. We humans can have fun playing with their toys too, although you might be grateful when the squeaker eventually disappears out of one of those annoying little rubber mice.
6. Clothes - some people like to dress their pets up like people, but a good warm coat or raincoat is a very good idea for those late winter walks. A brightly colored coat can help to keep you both safe too, when you're out in the dark.