Healthy Pets Guide

MORE TH>N research shows vets are seeing a huge increase in the number of obese pets, which is leading to health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure and arthritis. Follow our helpful guide to ensure your pet lives a long and healthy life.

Rub your hand along your pet's ribs and backbone - if they are losing weight or getting excessively fat, take it to the vets for a weight and health check.
Be aware of your pets ideal weight (breed standards can be helpful or ask advice from your pet health professional). An unaccountable increase or decrease could be an early indication of inappropriate feeding or illness.
Monitor food consumption carefully, allowing for treats and titbits.
Choose good quality pet food for your pets and beware of too much sugar and salt in pet food.
Ensure your pet has daily exercise, which is vital for its general and mental health. Dogs should be walked at least twice a day.
Ensure your cat or dog receives yearly booster vaccinations and have them wormed every three to six months.
Take your pet to the vet immediately if any of the following occurs: vomiting /diarrhoea, increased thirst and urination, coughing /altering breath, altered gum colour, collapse /fainting /seizure.

For further information about pet's health, a guide to different breeds and an 'ask the expert' section go to www.pethealthcare.co.uk.