Home
Stay on top of your pet’s health and care with this handy checklist of routine activities.
Daily
- Get up and MOVE! A lot of pets don’t get enough exercise and mental stimulation. It’s vital to set aside time each day for walks, learning new tricks or commands, or playtime with your pet. Schedules can get hectic pretty quickly; if your schedule is getting too full, schedule time with a local, qualified pet sitter to walk and play with your pet.
- Brush, brush brush. Just as your oral hygiene plays an important role in your overall health, caring for your pet’s teeth is necessary for their health. Try to brush their teeth daily using a pet-specific toothpaste to remove plaque, maintain healthy gums, and keep their breath fresh. If daily brushing simply isn’t a possibility, especially if your pet is extremely resistant to the process, try to at least brush their teeth a few times a week.
- Scoop, there it is. Cleaning up after your pet, whether it is the yard or litter box, daily is one of the best ways to prevent parasites and other hygiene issues. Double-check whatever cleaning products or disinfectants you choose to make sure they are pet-friendly.
Monthly
- Heartworms, Fleas, and Ticks – oh my! Parasites can cause a ton of nasty health issues for your pets. Make sure your pet gets year-round parasite prevention with monthly treatments. Consult with your veterinarian to decide which treatments are best for your pet’s needs.
- Ready for the catwalk. Routine grooming will help keep your pet fresh and free of painful mats. Grooming appointments are also a good time for extras like nail trims and ear cleanings.
Yearly
- Make a date with your veterinarian. Even healthy pets need to see the veterinarian at least once a year. Annual physical exams and regular screening tests can detect potential problems early so you can keep your pet healthy. Don’t forget to update your pet’s vaccinations, if needed—they’re your best defense against the common infectious diseases your pet may face!
- Check your pet’s microchip! Microchips help thousands of lost pets return safely home to their owners every year. Make sure all of your pets are microchipped and check the registry annually to ensure your contact information is correct and up-to-date.