Your animal companion is more than likely a family member and should be treated just like one by keeping them healthy and happy. Your pets needs regular veterinarian checkups at least once a year. Your animal medical professional will screen for diseases, ensure the overall health of your animal, and administer yearly-required vaccinations. Your family veterinarian can also provide information about the proper care for your animals—everything from diet to exercise.

One very vital test that your vet will test for is heartworm disease. Spread through mosquito bites, this condition can become a fatal disease if left untreated. However, it is easily prevented using such preventative medication as Frontline Plus.

In addition to mosquitoes other insects can affect your pet’s health. Ticks and fleas can cause problems from minor irritations to more serious diseases, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever. These insects can be easily eliminated using tick and flea control medication and products.

Keep your pets cool during the summer and warm during the winter. Heatstroke can be a very serious condition. Symptoms of heatstroke can include labored breathing, unresponsiveness, and even unconsciousness. Provide plenty of water and shade if he or she is not indoors. If you suspect heatstroke, immerse them in cool water and then see your veterinarian. In the winter make sure your pet has a warm spot and water that is not frozen.

It’s also important to take care of your pet’s dental health like you do your own. Bones and toys do help with plaque build up, but a daily brushing of those teeth is optimal. Because animal toothpaste is flavored with tastes they like, your pets will soon come to enjoy their daily brushing!

Take care of your pets so they will live a long and wonderful life with you and your family!