By: Natalie Pons, Office Manager at Pawsitivity Pet Services
During the month of September we will discuss all things regarding responsible pet ownership! As pet owners, we have the responsibility to ensure that our furry friends lead healthy, happy lives. This week, we're focusing on three key aspects: exercise, nutrition, and mental stimulation. By paying attention to these areas, we can significantly enhance our pets' quality of life.
Three Key Ways to Provide a Good Quality of Life to Our Pets
Being a responsible pet owner is all about doing right by your pet. After all, when you get a pet you are making a commitment to keep them safe, healthy and happy! Below we will discuss our top 3 things we think you should consider when it comes to providing a good quality of life to your pet.
NUMBER 1. EXERCISE: KEEPING YOUR PET HEALTHY AND HAPPY
Regular exercise is crucial for your pet’s physical and mental well-being. Whether it’s a daily walk or a playful game, staying active helps maintain your pet’s weight, improves cardiovascular health and reduces the risk of developing behavioral issues. Each species and breeds have different exercise needs, so it is essential to tailor activities to your pet’s specific requirements.
Cats don’t typically run up to you with a ball to throw like some dogs do, so we often can assume they aren’t interested in playing. This isn’t the case at all! Cats are natural hunters and enjoy toys and games that tap into this instinct. A cat wand is perfect for this! Playing in 10 minute increments as frequently as possible is perfect for your cat! (American Humane).
Now, let's discuss exercise needs for dogs. They will vary with the amount of exercise they need daily. This can be very breed and age-specific and it’s always good to research your individual dog, speak with your veterinarian, as well as look for signs of not getting enough exercise such as your dog being overweight and/or showing destructive or other behavioral signs. A general rule of thumb is anywhere between 30 minutes to 2 hours daily of exercise (like we said, it really depends on the specific dog!) (Madson 2023). Walking should be part of your daily routine and a brisk walk can be great for exercise while a leisurely, sniff walk is better for mental stimulation; both are great but if you are taking a leisurely walk everyday, this may not be enough exercise for your pup. In addition to your daily walk, it is a great idea to add in variety! Fetch, flirt pole, frisbee, and agility work, are all great ideas for additional exercise and this is an awesome chance to find what your dog likes best.
NUMBER 2. NUTRITION: FEEDING YOUR PET THE RIGHT WAY
A balanced diet is the foundation of good health for your pet. Quality nutrition supports everything from your pet’s coat and skin health to their energy levels and immune system. It is important to consult with your veterinarian for dietary needs and any questions you may have. When selecting a food, make sure you choose a diet that suits your pets specific needs such as species, age, size, and activity level. Additionally, you should avoid feeding your pet human foods that can be harmful and, again, consult with your veterinarian if you are unsure on what human foods can or cannot be shared with your pet (Llera, DVM).
Humans love desserts and treats! Your furry friend is no different. However, it is your responsibility to keep your pet healthy and therefore, treats should be given in moderation and should complement a balanced diet, not replace a balanced diet. Consult with your veterinarian for advice on what treats are best for your pet.
NUMBER 3. ENRICHMENT: KEEPING YOUR PET’S MIND SHARP
The last couple of blogs we went into detail on great mental stimulation ideas for dogs and for cats - go check those out if you are looking for specific ideas! Here, let’s just discuss the importance of mental stimulation for a well-rounded quality of life for your pet.
If you’ve ever experienced “cabin fever”, you know the feeling of being antsy, uneasy and just downright bored when you spend too much time in the house doing nothing. Well, your pet is no different! Let’s be honest, our pets live somewhat boring lives and we, the things we do with them and the places we take them, are their WHOLE world. What can help with the boredom from their often mundane lives is mental stimulation, or enrichment. According to PetMD, mental stimulation can improve mental health and cognitive function, build confidence, release stress, help eliminate destructive behavior, and strengthen your bond with them. Some ideas to consider for your cat include: balls, wands and puzzles. Some ideas for your dog include: puzzles, food mazes, learning new tricks, and scent work.
This is an aspect of being a responsible pet owner that can often be overlooked but it is key to achieving a high quality of life for your pet!
Conclusion: Good Quality of Life for Your Pet
A lot goes into being responsible owners and providing a good quality of life to our pets is just one aspect. These are just three key aspects of a high quality of life - exercise, nutrition and mental stimulation.
All the best on your responsible pet-ownership journey!
Sources:
Burke, A. (2024, April 16). How much exercise does a dog need every day?. American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/how-much-exercise-does-dog-need/ Exercising your pet. American Humane. (2023, July 26).
Llera, R., DVM. Nutrition - general feeding guidelines for dogs: VCA Animal Hospitals. Vca. (n.d.).
Madson, C. (2024, July 5). The Active Dog Guide: How Much Exercise Your Canine Needs.
Preventive Vet. https://www.preventivevet.com/dogs/how-much-exercise-dogs-need
9 cost-effective ways to keep your dog mentally stimulated. PetMD. (n.d.).
Commentaires