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Start the New Year off on the right paw!
Checklist for better health

New Year's Resolutions
(continued from page 1)

Poison-proof the house
We hear about child proofing the house and yard, what about the pets? A bored or curious pet can easily get into trouble if hazardous chemicals or prescription medications are within reach. And, unlike a child, a dog has powerful teeth to chew through 'safe' bottles or containers. For links to information on common toxins, poison control for animals, please see the Toxicology Links.

Groom / bathe my pet more often
Good grooming isn't only for looks -- it is a great way to keep skin and coat healthy. Matting, superficial skin infections, ear infections, parasites, and even tumors can 'hide' on a poorly groomed pet.

Some diseases, such as Hypothryroidism, Cushings, and Diabetes Mellitus can affect the skin and coat. If a pet's coat is in poor condition due to matting and dirt, important disease signs may not be noticed right away.

Exercise with your pet / spend more quality time
The health benefits from owning a pet continue to make the news. Lowered blood pressure, stress reduction, better relationships/relating to others, and improved health from exercise are just a few of the 'proven' benefits. Children who take care of the family pet learn not only about health care, but about responsibility as well. Take the time...your pet will love you for it.


Happy and healthy new year!
Janet, DVM


Text: Copyright © Janet Tobiassen Crosby. All rights reserved.

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