This year, why not make a resolution to keep your pet as healthy and happy as possible? One of the best ways to do that is to keep your animal companion free from dangerous diseases. Learn about five quick tips for keeping your pet disease-free below:

Practice Parasite Prevention

Parasites like ticks, fleas, and worms are some of the leading causes of disease in pets. Luckily, your animal friend has a solid first line of defense: preventative medications. These medicines—often administered topically or given as pills or chewable bites—help ward off pesky parasites to help your pet stay disease-free all year round. If your pet isn’t already wearing the appropriate preventatives, contact your vet to learn more.

Vaccinate Early

Most pets can receive essential vaccinations as early as eight weeks of age. By having your pet protected with the core vaccines (those that protect against particularly problematic diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and rabies) you’re starting them off on the path to good health. Depending on where you live, vaccinations to protect against Lyme disease and other common or contagious diseases may be warranted. Don’t forget about booster shots, which your pet will need every year or every few years to keep vaccines effective.

Maintain Dental Health

It’s easy to forget that dental disease—known in veterinary circles by its official name, periodontitis—is one of the leading causes of health troubles among our animal companions. By brushing your pet’s teeth at home, providing chew toys to help scrape away loose plaque, and scheduling regular dental cleanings at your veterinarian’s office, you’re keeping your pet’s mouth as healthy as possible and avoiding dangerous dental disease before it can take hold!

Feed a Quality Diet

A pet without a healthy immune system is at a higher risk for contracting diseases, infestations, and infections. When your pet is fed a high-quality and nutritionally balanced food, the immune system stays in peak condition and your pet can fight off disease much easier! Make sure that you’re giving your pet a premium food that is appropriate for his or her age, weight, and breed. Feel free to ask your vet for a recommendation if you’re not sure what your four-legged companion should be eating.

See the Vet

There’s just no substitute for regular veterinary appointments when it comes to your pet’s overall well-being. It’s the best way to avoid issues before they begin! Ready to start the year off with a healthy and disease-free pet? Contact us today to schedule an appointment.