Every pet owner wants their dog or cat to live as long as they can—who doesn’t want to maximize the number of joyful years you spend with a pet? Here, a Fayetteville, NC veterinarian gives your four key ways to help your pet live the longest, healthiest life possible.

Diet and Exercise

Perhaps the most important way to keep your pet in good health is with proper diet and exercise. Overweight pets are at a far greater risk of developing multiple health disorders. Feed your pet a quality diet with the right proportions of nutrients, and exercise your pet once a day at least. Take walks, romp around in the living room, or play fetch or tug-of-war. However you do it, regular activity, combined with a good diet, will extend your pet’s life for years to come.

Dental Health

Dental disorders are some of the most common health maladies that veterinarians diagnose in pets. Check your pet’s teeth and gums regularly at home, and purchase pet-specific toothpaste and a special brush in order to brush your pet’s teeth at home. Good chew toys also help remove a good deal of plaque on your pet’s teeth. Ask your vet for a recommendation on good toys, as well as a demonstration of proper brushing procedures. Visit our Dentistry page for more information.

Supervision

As a general rule, don’t leave your pet unsupervised. Curious animals might get into all sorts of mischief, some of which could be hazardous to their health. Allowing an animal to roam around outdoors without supervision could result in run-ins with cars, exposure to disease, fights with other animals, and exposure to poisonous substances. Your pet is more likely to live happily ever after if you keep a watchful eye on him at all times.

Veterinary Visits

Of course, regular veterinary check-ups are the best way to keep your pet’s health in tip-top shape. Any problems will be caught early on, so they can be properly treated before anything gets worse. Preventative care is the best way to keep your pet healthy—set up an appointment with your Fayetteville, NC veterinarian’s office today.