7 Essentials for Pet Care

We consider pets to be part of the family, which is why our real estate team enjoys talking with customers about ways to keep pets healthy and happy in our homes.  Smart homeowners often create an overall health plan for their pets as recommended by a veterinarian.

Here are 7 essentials for your pet’s health plan, but also be sure to consult with your veterinarian for comprehensive health instructions for your cats, dogs, and other domestic pets.

 

• Check-ups and Wellness: Now is the time to mark your calendars and set reminders for six-month or one-year check-ups for 2018.  Regular veterinary appointments will help ensure you are meeting all of your pet’s health needs.

• Vaccines and Medications: By adhering to a regular check-up schedule, you’ll likely confirm completion of essential vaccines against Rabies, Bordetella, and other dangerous diseases. Also, refill for your pet’s medications. For example, it might be imperative for Fido to stay current on his monthly Heartworm prevention medicine.  In addition to calendar reminders, you might consider downloading an app for your phone and other devices to notify your family when it’s time to administer medications.

• Flea and Tick Control: In Florida and throughout the surrounding Greater Tampa Bay area, we have no shortage of insects. Our winters aren’t cold enough to kill off insect populations, which means we have a year-round battle with bugs. A monthly flea and tick control plan is critical to discuss with your pet’s veterinarian.

• Grooming and Hygiene: Different animals and breeds require different care.  Seek the advice of a professional groomer and a veterinarian to help properly care for your pet’s skin, coat, nails, ears, and teeth. Appropriate bathing schedules and daily brushings for both dogs and cats are also important to avoid shedding of hair, dander, and debris in your home.

• Bedding and Toys: Don’t forget that proper bedding and age-appropriate toys should be made available in your pet’s special areas. Be sure to frequently wash, sanitize, or throw away old toys and dirty bedding that could have lingering bacteria.

• Feeding Schedules: A predictable routine will help your pet feel secure about food supply, and you will be prepared to correlate feeding with a potty schedule.  Monitor eating and drinking in a designated area of your home. Your veterinarian will be able to provide recommendations for brand name pet foods.  Also, keep an eye out for any changes to eating habits, and consult your vet if your pet shows digestive issues.
• Housetraining: Last but certainly not least for concern, of course, is housetraining.  We consider our homes to be our biggest investment, which is why we want to protect the flooring as well as the furniture in our living spaces. We often refer customers to books and articles for litter-box training for cats and outdoor training for puppies.  Consult your veterinarian if your pet develops housetraining issues after initial training or later in life.

We are always happy to help you enjoy your home with your beloved pets.  In addition to helping you buy or sell real estate, we can also offer suggestions or connect you with local professionals and home experts. Call Dick and Karla Nielsen today at 813-294-5786 for more information.