Caring for a pet Dog

Nutrition

Dogs’ nutritional requirements change according to their lifestage, with puppies, adults and senior dogs all having different nutritional requirements. Home-prepared diets are complex and need to be balanced correctly.  Feeding a commercial ‘complete’ diet provides all the nutrients in the correct amounts and proportions.  So-called ‘lifestage’ diets are available which cater for the specific needs of puppies, adult and older dog

Exercise

Daily exercise is essential to keep dogs healthy and mentally and physically stimulated - the level of exercise will depend on their breed, age and health.  Exercise not only improves your dog’s wellbeing, but also helps build muscle tone and prevent depression, obesity, joint problems, heart conditions and behavioural issues.  Your vet will be able to advise you on how long you should walk your dog for each day.

Vaccination

Vaccination is the only proven method of protecting dogs against a range of potentially life-threatening diseases including distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and leptospirosis.  Some additional vaccines may be recommended for dogs at risk of other specific infections.  Your vet will be able to advise you on vaccination and will also carry out a health check to ensure he is in tip top condition.