A service animal is a blessing to handlers that need them. Keeping a canine not only happy, but healthy is key to a long and rewarding life with your furry companion. In this week’s post, we will look at some tips on how to keep your service animal healthy and happy while they are in your life.
- Nutrition
First on our list is nutrition. We cannot have a high functioning working dog without the basic nutritional needs. For your service animal to get the right nutrition, it is best to stick to a scientific nutritional plan. Consult your veterinarian about the best nutritional plan based on your dog's breed, age, and specific health needs. Provide high-quality dog food and avoid feeding them table food. Take the advice of your vet to keep your pup at peak health. It is also worth mentioning that you’ll want to keep an eye on your service animal’s weight, since obesity in dogs is a leading health concern and directly correlates to more severe health issues such as diabetes and heart issues
2. Vet Visits
Just like humans, regular doctor visits are imperative for overall health. Regular and consistent vet visits keep your service animal in tip-top shape. Not only do regular vet visits treat issues, it also help with early detection and preventative treatment for health issues. Ensuring your service dog receives prompt and effective treatment is imperative to a long life. Make sure to keep at least a yearly visit for your service animal.
3. Mental Stimulation
Service animals are highly intelligent and thrive on mental stimulation. Their daily service dog work offers some mental stimulation, but consider more mental activities to keep them busy in their downtime. Items like puzzles, lick and snuffle mats can keep them busy. And remember that consistent training keeps their minds occupied.
4. Exercise
Sometimes it seems like we can equate a lot of doggo health concerns and needs as the same as humans. And to a certain extent, this is true! So, just like people, your service animal will need plenty of exercise. Exercise not only keeps your dog physically healthy, it helps. Strengthen the bond between you keeps them stimulated. Adjust exercise routines to your pup’s specific energy level. As mentioned in our first top, obesity is a leading health concern and regular exercise will keep your service animal from becoming overweight.
5.Bonding
Beyond their physical needs, emotional well-being is crucial. Spending quality time to strengthen the bond with your service dog is also an important aspect of their overall health and well-being. Offer affection, praise, and positive reinforcement to strengthen your connection, contributing to their overall happiness.
6. Rest
Your service animal is a dedicated and hard worker. Because they are so dedicated, ensure they get plenty of rest and relaxation to renew their energy levels.
Final Thoughts
Service animals are more than a pet, they are well trained working dogs that need to be tip-top shape to perform their everyday duties and live a long, fruitful life. Ensure you keep your service animal’s health is in mind by getting regular checkups, exercise and premium nutrition. For more outstanding service animal content, follow New Life K9s blog.
