The month of February has many titles, but the one that we pet owners can really relate to is "Responsible Pet Owners Month."
Now
is a good time to check your dog's records and be sure that he/she is
up to date with whatever shots or medicines he usually gets (such as
heartworm). Remember that it's important to use the flea/tick treatment
every month, even through the winter (if you are a pet owner that
chooses to use it).
Take a look at your dog's ears and eyes. Clean
around his eyes and in his ears. Smell his ears; if he has an
infection, you will notice an unusual odor.
Run outside and look at
your dog's recent stool. Does it look normal? Is it loose or tight
bits? Do you notice anything out of the ordinary? And while you're at
it, clean the area your dog uses for its potty.
Feel and look at all
four paws and especially the pads of your dog. In the winter, salt for
melting snow can be very harmful to your dog's paws (there are numerous
brands on the market that are safe for pets). Trim the hair growing
between the pads. Letting that hair grow causes your dog to have less
traction on slippery areas. Are the pads cracked? Use some bee balm to
help. It's even a good idea to rub a very light bit of balm on his pads
before going outside.
Now take the time to groom your dog and give him a thorough brushing. Add treats along the way and he'll enjoy the experience.
Take extra time this month above and beyond what you normally do for your dog; let him live the spa life and ensure his health!
HAPPY RESPONSIBLE PET OWNERS MONTH! PASS IT ALONG.
All tips are courtesy of The Pawsitive Dog, 70 Southampton St, Boston MA 02120.
If
you would like a year's worth of tips for you and your dog, purchase
their desktop daily calendar when you visit their website at http://www.thepawsitivedog.com.











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