Owning a pet can be an incredible companion and help combat depression. Unfortunately, sometimes they get anxious if there is too much tension in their environment. Fortunately, there are ways you can relax your furry friend before something stressful occurs.
Exercise Your Pet
Pets not only make wonderful companions, but they can also motivate you towards physical fitness. Studies have demonstrated that pets encourage activity and reduce stress levels.
No, your pup may not be able to run up those stairs for you, but taking them for a brisk walk around your neighborhood or having some fun playing with a cat in your living room can still provide plenty of exercise and improve health. According to an online survey conducted recently by Pet Owner Magazine, pet owners who work out with their pups receive 25% more exercise than those who don’t!
As you and your pet prepare for the new year, now is an excellent time to create a fitness plan. Whether you’re senior, busy with work or simply need more physical activity in general, getting out with us can be the ideal way to reach those wellness targets this year!
To create a healthy and happy home environment for your furry friend, create an organized routine that includes meals, exercises and other pet care tasks. Sticking to this schedule will not only keep you feeling contented but it will give your animal added security as well.
If it’s too cold to go outside, why not create an indoor obstacle course for your pet that includes household objects or boxes. Not only will this give them exercise, but you’ll get some valuable exercise as well!
Your pet’s exercise requirements depend on their age, breed, health and activity level. Your vet can suggest the most beneficial forms of exercise for your canine or feline friend.
Train Your Pet
Training your pet is essential for their welfare and long-term well-being with you. It also helps prevent problems like destructive behavior or separation anxiety from occurring.
Positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, is a popular training method for pets. This type of discipline helps teach your pup new behaviors and strengthens the bond between both of you. However, consistency with sessions must be ensured and communication should take place in an understandable language for your furry friend.
For instance, if you want your dog to be quiet in the house, take him outside frequently and give him commands. Avoid using punishment like yelling or swatting as this will only reinforce unwanted behaviors and confuse your pup.
Another important part of obedience training for your pet is crate training them. Crates provide a secure, enclosed space where your pup can sleep and stay warm. If he/she experiences separation anxiety, having their own crate may help him remain calm during times apart.
Crate training your pet when they are younger is the best way to ensure they learn to remain calm in times of distress, like when you go away for vacation. You can even keep their favorite toys inside the crate to further encourage them to feel secure and at home in it.
Feed Your Pet
No matter if you have a dog or cat, your pets need an optimal diet. Commercial foods are designed with specific needs in mind; however, you can also prepare home-cooked meals for them.
When making pet food yourself, be sure to choose a high-quality recipe that provides your furry friend with all of the nutrition they require. Many homemade recipes contain taurine – an amino acid responsible for keeping heart, retinas, nervous system, gallbladder and muscles functioning optimally.
It is essential to feed your pet a balanced diet that includes meat, poultry, vegetables and grains like rice or pasta. Feeding an inadequate number of nutrients or too much fat can lead to serious health issues in your furry friend.
To prevent these issues, be sure to read the labels on your pet’s food carefully. They should provide information regarding what’s inside and how it nourishes your pup.
Before giving your pet any fad diets, such as raw foods or grain-free diets, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian first. Many grain-free meals contain fillers and preservatives which may lead to weight gain, digestive issues, allergies and other health complications.
Additionally, the American Veterinary Medical Association cautions against feeding raw or undercooked meat because it can be contaminated with dangerous bacteria and pathogens like salmonella, E. coli and listeria that could make your pet ill or even cause death.
