Heart Happy Tips for your Pets

February is American Heart Month and at Creekside Pet Hotel, we understand that pets are family and know you want to keep them healthy and happy.  We’ve come up with some heart happy tips for your pets.

Annual Vet Visit 

Before making any changes in diet, exercise or lifestyle with your pet, please discuss them with your veterinarian. Each pet is different and based on your pet’s health history they may recommend a specific plan of action for you.

Your Pet’s Diet 

Just like their parents, diet can have a significant impact on a pet’s health.  From allergies and dry itchy skin to obesity which can cause heart disease. 

“According to WebMD, Up to 50% of dogs in the U.S. weigh too much.“

 It can be so tempting to want to over-treat your pet. Who doesn’t want to give them “just one more treat” when they give you the “look”? Try exchanging some of those treats for extra kisses and belly rubs. They LOVE the attention! 

Have a talk with your vet about your pets’ ideal weight and how much they recommend you feed them each day to keep them in their ideal weight range. 

Walk it Off! 

One of the best ways for your dog to get some extra exercise in is to go for a walk. You will both enjoy all of the dog friendly walking and hiking trails in and around Kennesaw, Georgia. 

Don’t forget that if you don’t have time to take your dog for a walk, you can bring them in for Dog Daycare and schedule them a nature trail walk or time on the dog treadmill. 

Check out Charlie’s Wellness Journey on the dog treadmill and he works to shed a few pounds and get back into shape. 

Toys and More Toys! 

Getting your dog moving can be difficult in the winter months. Last month we discussed some Treat Toys. Both dogs and cats agree that these are the best types of toys!  Check out some of the treat-dispensing toys listed in the Best Dog Toys Reviewed in 2019 list and also the list of 20 Best Cat Toys in 2019. 

If you’re looking for a weekend project for the kids, try making this DIY homemade snuffle mat. You can put kibble or treats in it for your dog or cat to sniff out. They can have so much fun searching for their food! 

Our Senior Pets

It’s especially important to talk to your veterinarian about limitations your senior pet may have and the best way to get some exercise in for them.  When our pets get older, they need extra care and love. 

Last summer we had a 15-year-old, grey muzzle (senior dog), visit our dog swimming pool to get some exercise in.  Swimming can be a great way to get your senior dog moving because it’s much easier on their hips and joints than walking. 

Once the weather gets warm again in Kennesaw, GA (and STAYS warm!) we’ll announce it’s opening so you can schedule your dog for a swim. 

Dogs love swimming off the pounds. 

SMILE – Bonus Tip

It’s also Pet Dental Month.  Did you know that your pet’s teeth can significantly impact their heart health? Talk to your veterinarian about keeping your pet’s teeth in top shape. 

Many veterinary clinics have specials in February for dental cleanings.  However, bloodwork is normally required for a dental cleaning. 

You may be able to save money by scheduling your pets dental cleaning within 30 days of their annual exam.  Typically, your veterinarian can use the annual visit bloodwork results for their dental cleaning and save you money. 

Heart-Healthy Pets

As you can see, there are lots of things you can do to keep your pets’ heart healthy so that they live a longer, happier and healthier life.  Do you have any heart happy tips you do for your pets? We’d love to hear them.