PetHealth

STOP GERMS SPREADING WITH GOOD HYGIENE

Grooming and washing keeps ticks, fleas, mites, bacteria and diseases at bay. Wash your pet’s bedding, bowls and toys at least fortnightly, and regularly vacuum carpeted areas your pet has access to. For bathing, every 4 to 6 weeks is sufficient. Use products developed specifically for pets to help keep them looking

(and smelling) their best. Grooming should be done more often, including brushing, clipping and shaving to prevent eye, ear, skin and nail infections. Keeping your pet’s teeth clean prevents plaque and tartar accumulation, which lead to dental trouble and very sore mouths over time. Promote good oral health by brushing your pet’s

teeth at least weekly, using a pet toothbrush and pet toothpaste. Include a specifically formulated dental dry food in their diet, and encourage pets to chew on dental treats or chew toys.

Healthy body, healthy mind. Or so the saying goes. But the opposite is also the case.

issues, such as excessive barking, when you are out of the house. In cats, separation anxiety shows as excessive meowing or self grooming, a change in their eating habits – like not eating or eating too quickly – vomiting and diarrhoea. If you notice any of these signs, make an appointment to see your vet. Do your part to alleviate your pet’s anxiety with regular playtime. Challenge their mind with enrichment toys

KONGs – snowman-like rubber balls for both dogs and cats – have an unpredictable bounce, great for chasing and catching. For your dog, puzzle feeders or snuffle mats satisfy their instinct to sniff, forage and solve problems. For your cat, engage their hunting instincts with a feather wand – or for independent play, an electronic flopping fish or simple toy mouse.

NO SLOWING YOUR PET DOWN THISWINTER

Your pet’s mental state affects their immune system, similar to how stress can weaken ours. Separation anxiety happens to both dogs and cats. In dogs, look out for signs such as increased panting and salivating, inappropriate urinating and chewing household items. Speak to your neighbours and see if they have noticed any behavioural

but unfortunately for them, they suffer in silence and don’t let us know how they are feeling. A lot of arthritis pain will flare up and increase in the cold weather,” Dr Hayes says. By strengthening their immune health, our pets are better able to fight off the germs that can cause infection – and stay healthy all year round.

Just because it’s cold, it doesn’t mean your dog wants to walk less, and winter doesn’t necessarily stop your cat from slipping out the sliding door. If you’re seeking to make the most of winter with your pet, it’s vital to boost their immune system, the same way we take care of ours. “Yes, a lot of pets feel much of the same sensations as we do,

that nurture their natural instincts.

MIND-BODY CONNECTION THE

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