When you add a new puppy to the family, it may seem like nothing can dampen the good mood. However, all this joy is dependent on your furry friend’s well-being. To keep them healthy and happy, follow these three pet care tips.

3 Ways to Support Your Puppy’s Health

1. Establish a Grooming Routine

The earlier you start a pet care routine, the more comfortable your dog will be repeating it as they grow. Therefore, start washing and brushing their coat as a puppy and get them acquainted with nail clipping sessions. If their nails grow too long, they’ll push against their nail bed and toe joint with every step, resulting in pain or infection.

2. Play Regularly

Your puppy’s sporadic bursts of energy may seem like a product of their youth. These are helpful reminders to get outside and let your new pet exercise. Regular periods of increased heart rate are crucial to their long-term health, especially for breeds that require rigorous activity, like border collies and German shepherds. To keep your pet healthy, go for a short jog at least once a day. If they’re still bouncing with energy, use their favorite toy or a nearby stick to play fetch.

3. Find the Right Diet

Different breeds have specific dietary and caloric requirements, so check with their veterinarian before choosing a food for your puppy. In general, pick a well rounded diet made by well established pet food companies; like Hills/Science Diet, Royal Canin, Eukanuba, and Purina. These companies have spent decades researching and making sure that there are no side effects with long term feedings with their diet. Recent FDA news reported that certain diets, particularly “grain-fee” and “boutique brand” diets are causing a particular cardiac disease in pets (https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/news-events/fda-investigation-potential-link-between-certain-diets-and-canine-dilated-cardiomyopathy). Remember to speak to your veterinarian first and use information from reliable internet sources when doing your research for your pets.

If you’ve recently added a new puppy to the family, take them to Kapolei Pet Hospital on Oahu, HI. This pet care facility is led by Dr. Yoko Haneda, an experienced veterinarian who’s dedicated to keeping animals happy and healthy. The skilled team can even use cutting-edge techniques, like digital radiography and stem cell therapy, to ensure their patients’ health. View their full list of services online, or call (808) 462-8040 to schedule an appointment for your furry friend.