Posts in Category: You & Your Pet

All dogs—big, small, and in-between—need exercise every day to help them stay healthy and happy. But knowing just how much physical activity your dog needs depends upon many factors, including age, breed, size, and overall health. 

Your dog’s annual wellness exam is the perfect time to ask your Summeridge Animal Clinic veterinarian for recommendations that meet the needs of your individual pet. 

Why Walking Matters

Yes, you need to take Max outside for potty breaks, but actually walking your dog to the extent that it benefits his overall pet health requires more than a trip to the backyard.  

Exercising your dog for an appropriate amount of time every day will:

• Help him maintain a healthy weight;
• Keep his joints active and loose;
• Promote a longer dog lifespan;
• Give him opportunities to explore the world around him;
• Give him a sense of belonging 
• Provide a bonding experience that will deepen his relationship with you; and
• Help him expend pent-up energy so he’s more relaxed.

A General Rule of Thumb

Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and physical abilities, so there is no one-size-fits-all approach, but one thing is certain: your dog needs to exercise every day. The frequency and duration of your dog’s daily walks depend on many factors, but as a general rule, aim for 30 minutes to 2 hours of physical activity each day, divided into segments that are manageable for your dog. 

Many pets carry on their daily lives without disrupting household plants, but that doesn’t mean that toxic plants have a place inside the home. Pets might completely ignore a poisonous plant for years, until a combination of boredom, curiosity, or hunger propels them to investigate. Indeed, all it takes is one spontaneous sample to upend an otherwise normal day. Luckily, there are many pet-safe house plants to choose from.

The smooshed faces and excessive skin rolls that make bulldogs so loveable also contribute to some of their most notable health issues. Whether you are already the proud owner of a bulldog or you are considering bringing one into your family, Summeridge Animal Clinic wants you to be aware of common bulldog health issues that you might experience at some point in your life together.