Healthy Pet Tips from an MSPCA-Angell Veterinarian

We all want our pets to live long, healthy, and happy lives. October is National Pet Wellness Month, a great time to remember the importance of regular wellness checkups and healthy lifestyle choices for our pets. We chatted with Angela Mazza, DVM, an MSPCA-Angell General Medicine veterinarian, for tips on how to help our pets stay healthy and thrive through their golden years.

The importance of annual health exams for pets

Preventing health issues is essential! Annual check-ups with your pet’s veterinarian are important for identifying potential problems early on. Keeping a record of these visits can help track any concerns that may arise in the future. Dr. Mazza explains, “Annual trends are helpful. A physical exam for your pet can detect everything from weight fluctuations to heart murmurs or other conditions we may need to monitor.” Additionally, addressing problems early can help reduce expenses in the long run!

Spaying or neutering your pet

Deciding to spay or neuter your pet is a crucial and beneficial choice for your furry friend. Spaying female dogs and cats can significantly reduce the risk of tumors and uterine infections. To lower the chances of developing mammary tumors in these animals, Dr. Mazza recommends spaying them before their first heat or, at the very least, between their first and second heat cycles. If spaying is delayed until after the second heat, the risk of mammary tumors increases to 25%.

Neutering can prevent testicular cancer and prostate issues in male dogs and cats. Castration helps maintain a smaller prostate size in male dogs, thereby reducing discomfort associated with prostatic enlargement and lowering the risk of prostatic infections.

In addition, when your pet is fixed, they are less likely to escape outdoors to mate and thus less likely to get lost, hit by a car, or have a run-in with wildlife. “So, there are health, behavior, and population benefits,” added Dr. Mazza.

Pet nutrition is important

The significance of complete nutrition cannot be overstated. “It’s common to see overweight animals,” said Dr. Mazza. “Feeding age-appropriate diets, measuring each portion, and being cautious with treats is always recommended.” The popular “grain-free” diet has raised concerns and has been linked to canine heart disease. “We don’t see any benefits to grain-free foods, even though brands promote their high protein content and natural ingredients,” Dr. Mazza explained. “Here at Angell, we recommend food that includes grains.”

Maintain a healthy weight for your pet

Maintaining an ideal body weight for your pet is crucial for their well-being and is one of the simplest ways to enhance and prolong their life. Pets that carry excess weight are more likely to face serious health issues, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. “Many diseases can be prevented with proper weight management,” says Dr. Mazza. “Overweight dogs are at a higher risk for orthopedic disorders, while cats are more prone to diabetes.” She recommends avoiding human food, no matter how much your pet begs, and adjusting their diet based on their activity level.

Exercise your pet’s body and brain 

According to Dr. Mazza, dogs don’t always require long hikes or runs to stay healthy. “A simple walk around the block allows them to be outdoors and engage their sense of smell, which benefits both their physical and mental well-being.” Mental stimulation is essential for keeping your pet healthy and to help ease age-related cognitive dysfunctions. “Food toys and puzzles are excellent for dogs, while perches are ideal for cats, allowing them to climb and explore their surroundings.”

Preventive dental care for your pet

Most adult pets experience some form of dental disease, so regular brushing at home is essential. If tartar buildup is severe, ultrasonic scaling and cleaning under anesthesia may be necessary. Dr. Mazza recommends starting dental care when pets are young and often refers pet owners to the Veterinary Oral Health Council for approved dental products for cats and dogs. The website offers recommendations for toothpaste, gels, water additives, and dental-friendly treats.

A clean pet is a healthy (and happy) pet

Regular grooming of your dog or cat keeps them clean and fresh while helping you become familiar with every aspect of your pet’s health. This practice allows you to detect potential problems early, such as cracked nails or painful teeth. According to Dr. Mazza, it’s best to start grooming your pets when they are young so they become accustomed to the feel of clippers. Many dogs wear down their nails naturally from walking outside, which means they may not need frequent trimming; the same can be true for cats, depending on how much they scratch.

If your dog frequently shakes his head, it could indicate excess wax in his ears. Regular brushing helps you spot any irritations or cuts that may need attention. When it comes to bathing, remember that less is more. Most dogs don’t require routine baths unless they get dirty or have a condition that needs medicated bathing, according to Dr. Mazza. Keeping an eye on your pet’s needs is crucial, as some pets may require more grooming than others.

Prevent fleas and ticks on your pet

Keeping ticks and other creepy crawlies off your pets is essential for protecting them from Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. Dr. Mazza recommends maintaining a monthly flea and tick prevention routine. “There are many products available today—such as topicals, collars, and oral medications. I usually advise picking at least one method and sticking with it.” In addition to using preventive medications, Dr. Mazza suggests performing daily tick checks, especially if you and your pet spend a lot of time outdoors or in wooded areas.

Consider buying pet health insurance

When obtaining health insurance for your pet, Dr. Mazza recommends starting at a young age. “Once a veterinarian documents an illness or concern, it cannot be erased,” she explains. Many people consider pet health insurance only after receiving a major diagnosis. Dr. Mazza also warns that some pet health insurance plans do not cover annual check-ups, dental care, spaying, or neutering. “Make sure you understand the insurance you are purchasing and that it covers your needs.”

Train and socialize your dog 

Early socialization and training are crucial for your furry friend’s development. Dr. Mazza recommends starting training when they are still puppies. The key to success is consistency. Many owners look for a quick fix, but there isn’t one; it requires effort on their part. Spend 15 minutes each day reviewing basic training commands, breaking each command into sessions of two to five minutes. If you need professional assistance, MSPCA-Angell offers training and behavior classes for puppies and dogs of all ages!