New Year's Resolutions for Your Pet

When making your resolutions, don't forget about the ones for your pets! Dr. monica Chwala, with Blue Pearl Vet, gave us a few idea son some resolutions to keep your pet healthy all year long!

1. Consider quitting smoking. Second hand smoke isn’t only harmful to people; it is also harmful to pets. Smoking around dogs, cats, and birds, especially, puts them at greater risk of numerous health problems. Pets exposed to second-hand smoke tend to have more allergies, eye infections, and respiratory issues, including lung cancer. Knock the habit to help keep you and your four-legged friend healthy.

2. Exercise with your pet and perform a diet audit. Exercising for both people and pets is a great way to stay in shape. The life expectancy of a pet can be significantly increased if they live a healthy and active life. You may also want to evaluate what and when your pet is eating. Avoid overfeeding and weight gain by portioning the food with a measuring cup. Speak to your veterinarian about appropriate food portions and for general diet and nutritional guidance.

3. Maintain regular visits with your primary veterinarian. Pets age much faster than people, so it is important to bring your pet in to see a veterinarian at least twice a year. And because pets are inherently deceptive and experts at hiding illness, you may not immediately notice symptoms. By delaying veterinary exams, conditions can progress to a more advanced stage—potentially resulting in costly and invasive treatment.

4. Get pet insurance. Over the past decade, advances in veterinary medicine have given pet owners access to cutting-edge therapies and treatments—but these advanced treatments and therapies also come with a cost. Consider obtaining a pet insurance policy to assist with funding in the event of a veterinary emergency. Companies like Trupanion offer pet health insurance, which can cover injuries, illnesses, diagnostic testing, surgeries, medications, and lab work.

5. Start an emergency fund. The costs of veterinary medicine can put a strain on any pet owner looking to pay out of pocket. Even the most common injuries and illnesses in pets, like knee ligament rupture and kidney disease, can cost thousands to repair or treat. By setting aside $20 to $40 per paycheck, you can protect both your pet and your finances if you are ever in need of emergency care.

NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS FOR PETS
Blue Pearl Hospital
STONE OAK
(210) 930-8383
NEW BRAUNFELS
(830) 609-2873
BluePearlVet.com