Monday 15 February 2016

Healthy Pets Live Longer And Happier Lives

By Donna Stone


Mankind has kept domestic animals for hundreds of years. Initially, the purpose of these animals was to serve as food or as labour. Today, however, millions of households cherish tame household animals purely for their companionship and the joy that they provide to the members of the household. These animals can indeed make an important contribution to quality of life of their owners but owners should understand that it is their responsibility to ensure that they have healthy pets.

The health of a family animal can be negatively affected if it does not receive adequate attention and love from its owners. Some animals can develop depression, eating disorder and destructive behaviour patterns. Some animals, such as most breeds of dogs, needs much more personal attention than others, such as reptiles. Owners have to make time to spend with their animals.

Exercise is very important to the health of all animals. Caged animals should have a variety of devices that will allow them to exercise. Other animals, such as most dogs, need to be exercised by taking them for runs and walks and by playing with them. Lack of exercise can lead to depression, obesity and poor behaviour and will almost certainly shorten the life span of the animal.

The diet of an animal is perhaps the most important factor in his health. Many owners think that they show their animals love by feeding them unhealthy snacks and food not specifically designed for the needs of that animal. An unhealthy diet can lead to obesity and a host of other health problems such as liver failure and heart problems. Any vet will gladly advise owners on the correct diet for their animals.

Other than humans, animals cannot express the fact that they are experiencing discomfort or even pain. That is why it is so important to schedule a regular visit to the vet, even if it is not obvious that the animal is ill. Regular visits for deworming and inoculations will also help make sure that the health of the animal is ensured.

Animals suffering from boredom and stressful situations are often unhealthy. All household animals should enjoy some variety in their routine and animals that enjoy playing with toys should have a variety available to them. Stress can be a killer, too. Owners will quickly learn which situations cause an animal stress and should try not to expose the animal to such situations.

It is unfortunate that many animal owners adopt animals that are simply not suited to the environment where they will be kept. The living environment intended for an animal should be a vital consideration when choosing a household pet. Some animals need more space, others need hiding places and yet others need privacy. Keeping an animal in an unsuited environment will affect its health.

Household animals can be a joy and they offer many benefits. It is important to choose an animal that will fit into the lifestyle of its owners. Owners have a responsibility to make sure that their animals are content, well cared for and healthy. Owners should also keep in mind that some animal diseases can be transferred to humans, especially children.




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