Healthy Holiday Gift Ideas for Your Pet

During the holiday season it’s especially tempting to buy presents for those you care about – including your pets. After all, pets are part of your family, too. But it’s important to remember that your pet doesn’t know that it’s a holiday and won’t feel left out if they don’t have a gift of their own. All they really care about is being healthy, safe, and loved by you. So this year, instead of spending money on toys and special treats, consider investing in these gifts that will truly enhance your pet’s quality of life.

Quality Food

Rather than an occasional present of tempting treats, try investing in a high-quality pet food that meets the particular dietary needs of your pet every day. Just as the dietary requirements of humans vary from person to person and with age and individual health concerns, your pet’s dietary requirements change over time. And most pets get excited when they have a new food to tempt them. If you’re uncertain of exactly what the best pet food option is, consider consulting with your veterinarian.

Exercise & Play

Spending time with your pet is the best way to keep them healthy and happy. Taking both dogs and cats for walks can be a great way for you and your companion to get much-needed exercise. And spending time each day engaged in play with your pet helps to strengthen your bond and keep them from becoming bored – and potentially destructive. Whether it’s fetch and tug of war with your dog or teaser and chase games with your cat, you’ll enjoy and benefit from the time together as much as they will.

Preventive Medicine

Fleas, ticks, heartworms, and other parasites can be a year-round concern – even if your pet stays indoors. Most people forget that they bring in bacteria, viruses and other potentially harmful creatures on their clothes and shoes every day. And if you have an indoor cat but an outdoor dog, you run the risk of having harmful parasites pass from one to the other. Investing in effective preventive medications and making sure to give them to your pet regularly can keep them from getting sick. After all, illness is far more costly than prevention – and makes you as miserable as your pet.

Regular Veterinary Care

The best way to keep your pet healthy is by catching any concerns as early as possible. Regular veterinary appointments allow your vet to make sure your pet is at their best and give them a chance to pick up on potential issues before they become major health concerns. If your pet is overdue for a check-up or vaccination, nothing will make a bigger difference to them than that all-important trip to the vet.

If your pet is due for a check-up, vaccination or you’d like a professional recommendation on the best food for their current age and stage of life, contact Bregman Veterinary Group to schedule your appointment today. Your pet will thank you for it – hopefully for years to come!