There are many ways that you can invest in your pet’s health to keep them happy and to save money. Below are three investments in your pet that you can make toward that goal.
Nutrition
Make sure your pet maintains a healthy weight through proper nutrition. Purchase high quality pet food that does not contain ingredients such as corn and other fillers as the main ingredient. Many pets with food allergies exhibit symptoms such as itching and scratching. When fed a food grain free food, the symptoms disappear. Pet food that contains preservatives should also be avoided. All food labels have a list of ingredients. The first ingredient should be a protein source such as chicken or fish. If you are in doubt about the type of food that your pet will do best eating, consult your veterinarian. He or she can give guidance on the property nutrition necessary for your pet based on his or her health, age and lifestyle.
Teeth
Take care of your pet’s teeth. They should be brushed with a toothbrush and special toothpaste made just for pets. Regular brushing helps avoid gum disease and reduces bad breath. Dental chews are also available at pet stores that help keep your pet’s teeth clean and healthy. If your pet has hardened plaque on his or her teeth, a veterinarian should be consulted. Note that human toothpaste should never be used to brush your pet’s teeth; it contains ingredients that can cause severe health problems in your pet.
Insurance
Obtain a pet health insurance policy for your pet. Accidents and unexpected illnesses can lead to costly bills from the veterinarian. Different types of policies can be purchased based on your preferences. For example, a policy may cover routine care or it may only cover expenses related to accidents or illnesses. Routine care includes vaccinations, health check-ups, teeth cleanings and blood work. Regular veterinarian visits can help detect illnesses early so that the disease can be treated before it worsens. Accidents generally include injuries such as broken bones, poisoning and lacerations. Illnesses generally include cancer, allergies, cherry eye, epilepsy and diabetes. The cost of insurance varies depending on the type of policy that you choose. A quality pet health insurance policy can end up saving you thousands of dollars.
Investing in your pet’s health will help keep him or her healthy and happy for years to come and will give you peace of mind.