Improving and Maintaining Your Pet’s Health

Ever since the nationwide pet-food recall of 2007, there’s been an ever-increasing trend towards natural and holistic pet foods. The kind of pet food made from natural ingredients – with few (if any) artificial additives.

Pet owners are beginning to realize the importance of higher-quality foods for their pet. What’s more, nutritional supplements and exercise regimens have also come to the forefront of pet health. These days, pet owners simply want to find the best way to protect their furry, scaly, finned, and feathered friends.

Natural Pet Food
“Natural” pet food has emerged as the first line of defense in pet health. The 2007 recall was an emotional wakeup for pet owners. Many pet owners have reacted by choosing to buy only natural foods for their pets. This shift in consumer demand has consequently created space for new local businesses specializing in such brands.

Many pet stores in Central Florida offer a varied selection of natural brands, including California Natural, Innova, and Innova EVO. Many traditional pet stores in Central Florida as well as online pet stores such as J’adore My Pet offer store-to-door delivery or package deals on health supplements and specialized holistic natural pet food – perfect for owners on the go.

Did You Know: Treats can be healthy too! Many pet boutiques such as J’adore My Pet and other traditional brick and mortar businesses offer various packaged treats for your pooch, along with all-natural “cookies” made with human-grade ingredients like apple, banana, carob, and cinnamon.

Nutritional Supplements for your Pet
There has also been an increased interest in pet nutritional supplements. Owners today wonder if their pets are getting enough vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in their diets. For ailments such as muscle aches and joint pains, many pet owners have considered holistic treatments.  For example, glucosamine for dogs and condroitin for cats, are two of the most popular pain-relief supplements on the market today.

This being said, remember that when it comes to supplements, it’s imperative you consult your pet’s veterinarian first. Every pet is special and unique. Ask your Central Florida vet specifically about possible side effects, medication combinations, and what the alternatives are. What’s more, check with the FDA first to learn of any adverse effects and go into your vet visit prepared.

Exercise
As for exercise, dogs of course need their walks. Even small dogs should have room to roam – a luxury not all living spaces can provide. The answer? Dog-walking services, which have seen a boom in business over the last few years, is a great resource for the busy pet owner. Indeed, while discretionary spending has gone down because of the economy, certain aspects of pet ownership, such as food and health-related perks, have sustained their growth. Why? Simply because pet owners realize that the benefits outweigh the cost.

And while dogs will lap up a walk with their designated dog walker, nothing can compare to spending time with you. Fortunately, Orlando and Central Florida have several dog parks made for such occasions. Orlando dog parks include: Doctor Phillips Dog Park, Downey Dog Park, Barber Dog Park, and Meadow Woods Dog Park. And for the surrounding areas, look no further than Hound Ground in Winter Springs, Mount D.O.R.A. Dog Park in Mount Dora, Gemini Springs Dog Park in DeBary, and several others throughout Central Florida.

As a treat take your dog to one of these parks for a morning or afternoon run, hike, or game of tag. Remember: every time your dog works out, so do you. You’re both the better for it.