2010年8月12日 星期四

Pet Ownership - A Plus For Pets and Owners

Pet ownership has grown tremendously over the years. Dogs and cats were once relegated to living outdoors and having some work function (guard dog, cattle dog, mouser). They now have a very different relationship with us, their owners. They are spending much of their time indoors, sleeping on the couch and bed, and being considered members of the family. Because of this transition, we put a much greater value on pet health care. In so doing, we improve the quality of life of our pets and the quality of the relationship we have with our dogs and cats.
As dedicated owners, we are looking for sources of information about the choices we make for our dogs and cats. We want to make informed decisions when choosing products, services, and other things for our loved ones. Veterinarians can be a great source of knowledge. They can help us sift through information and make appropriate choices. Asking friends and neighbors, reading books, and searching the internet can also be useful. But, it's important to be discriminating when evaluating things we read and hear. Check the credentials and training of those who are providing suggestions. We need to make sure that we're making the best decisions for our dogs and cats.
The reality with pet ownership is much of our pets' overall health is directly related to basic, relatively inexpensive, preventative care that we can provide. First of all, we should ensure our cats and dogs are healthy when we initially bring them home, which is determined by a veterinary visit. Then, provide vaccinations and deworming, feed a good quality diet, and provide plenty of exercise. These are easy steps to take to make and keep our dogs and cats healthy. By providing a good foundation, our pets are less likely to become ill. It's always less expensive to prevent disease and problems than it is to treat them once they're already present.
In our hectic lives, it's wonderful to have loved ones at home to share our relaxation time. If we've had a particularly crazy day where nothing seemed to go right, how many of us have had the family dog or cat snuggle up against us and make all the frustrations just fade away? They help to refocus us on the things that really do matter in life. They help us rejuvenate and be ready to face the next challenge.
Studies have been done showing the strong health benefits of pet ownership. Not only can pets help lower blood pressure and heart rate, but they can help combat depression, and isolation. Owners of pets statistically have fewer doctor visits, shorter hospital stays, and easier recuperation after an illness. Dogs can help us stay on track with exercise and weight loss when we walk them daily. How wonderful that we can have a healthier life by providing a loving home to a dog or cat.
Owning a pet is a privilege many of us enjoy. Along with that privilege, comes a responsibility. It is our obligation to provide the best care we can for each and every dog and cat we bring into our lives. The strong bond we share with our dogs and cats enriches our lives. Providing them with excellent care and our love enriches theirs.
Deborah A. Ullrich, DVM
http://your-pets-dr.com/
Pet health care information from a veterinarian's perspective. Useful topics that dedicated dog and cat owners want to read about. Things that I, as a loving pet owner as well, want to discuss.

沒有留言:

張貼留言