Four Preventive Health Care Tips For Pets

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America's best-loved family doctor for pets-Dr. Marty Becker-says making your pet's health a top priority is important in giving him/her a long, happy life.

PETS & PEOPLE

Four Preventive Health Care Tips For Pets

NAPSA)—Thoughts that will never run through your pet’s head: “No seconds, please; I’m watching my weight.” “This medicine tastes terrible but I’ll take it because it’s good for me.” “Hey, isn’t it time for my checkup with the veterinarian?”

It’s important to remember that pets can’t make these decisions for themselves, so they rely on their human partners to look out for their health and wellbeing. And preventive health care is just as important for our furry friends as it is for us.

Dr. Marty Becker, veterinarian, well-known “spokesperson” for pets and co-author of “Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul,” offers these pointers for ensuring a healthy lifestyle for pets:

1. Put the Treat Back in Treatment. Pets possess an acute sense of smell and can detect the ingredients in medication, which often sends them running. This can create problems for even the savviest pet owner when giving medication to pets.

One effective option is Greenies Pill Pockets treats—soft, edible treats for dogs and cats that have a hollow core. The beef-, chicken and salmon-flavored treats conceal the medication and provide a healthy alternative for your pet.

2. Brush Up and Down and All Around. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, about 85 percent of dogs and cats 3 years of age or older have some evidence of periodontal disease. While brushing your pet’s teeth is the gold standard for athome care, other methods, such as Greenies canine dental chews and Feline Greenies treats, and special dental diets can help in the fight against periodontal disease.

3. A Weighty Issue. An overweight pet is prone to a host of related problems, including diabetes, mobility  issues, and breathing and heart problems. The good news is that it’s not that difficult to trim down pets; they’re always up for a brisk walk, a game of fetch or play with a toy. They love to move, especially if we’re moving with them.

4. Regular Tune-Ups Keep Their Motors Purring. Visits to the veterinarian are always part of a healthy pet lifestyle, whether it’s for an illness or a regular checkup. Veterinarians recommend twice-yearly wellness exams, so they can help pets avoid diseases or medical conditions that are preventable and often painful.

In recognition of purchases of Greenies Pill Pockets treats during National Pet Week, May 4-10, and throughout the month of May, The Greenies Company will donate up to 10,000 bags of Greenies Pill Pockets treats to animal shelters across the U.S.

Original Source: napsnet.com