The COVID-19 pandemic has required citizens to stay in their homes, and businesses that don’t sell essential goods and services to put a halt to their operations, either temporarily or, worse, permanently. The coronavirus outbreak has not only affected the lives of people, but it has also had an enormous impact on a lot of pets across the globe. The current status quo has made it very challenging for pet owners to look after the wellness of their furbabies
The coronavirus has drastically changed everyone’s lives, but this shouldn’t be a reason why you will neglect your dog’s health. On the contrary, you should continue to allocate time and effort in taking care of your dog during these trying times, so they remain happy and healthy.
To help make this process easier, here are ways you can keep your dog healthy during this pandemic:
1. Stock Up On Essential Items For Your Dogs
Your dogs need a lot of things to stay healthy. According to https://petsumer.com, your dog will require grooming tools, high-quality dog food, and dietary supplements. If you’re looking after a sick or senior dog, you might need more essential items.
For you to keep your dog healthy during this pandemic, stock up on these necessities and make sure that these will last for at least two months. Most countries only allow individuals to go out of their homes if they will buy essential goods, so make the most out of your trip by listing down all of the things that your dog needs and buying them as soon as possible.
2. Invest In The Right Toys For Your Dog
Toys are very beneficial for your dog’s development and growth. The right toys can help your dog build confidence, keep their mind busy, and boost their learning ability. Giving your dog toys will also make them love you more and help you create a positive relationship with them.
The pandemic will require you to stay at home more often, which is why it’s best if you invest in the right toys for your dog. This is especially important if you live in a small apartment or community where there are no public parks around. Aside from the mentioned benefits, toys can also keep your dog busy, so you can easily accomplish tasks at home.
3. Add Extra Exercises To Your Dog’s Routine
If you are living in a city or state that is not quarantined, and you are still allowed to go out (as long as you wear a face mask and practice social distancing), find the time to take your dog for a walk. This simple activity can help improve your dog’s cardiovascular fitness, lower their blood pressure, and keep their bones and muscle strong. Walking your dog can also be a great and fun exercise for you!
Depending on your schedule, you can take your dog for a walk early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Just make sure to control your dog and discipline them to not get close to other pets and humans.
4. Consult Your Vet
Regardless of the number of years that you have been a pet owner, still, there will be instances when you will get stressed out the moment you notice that your dog is acting strangely. Seeing that your dog pees or poops in an unusual manner can be very stressful as you won’t have any idea on what you should and shouldn’t do.
If that happens, it’s still best to consult your vet. During this pandemic, vets will offer online consultation to their clients so you can easily chat or call them using the Internet. Do not administer medications to your dog unless approved by your vet as this can only result in more harm than good.
5. Incorporate Fruits And Vegetables To Your Dog’s Diet
It’s common for pet owners to feed their dogs with commercially-produced dog food. This product is accessible almost anywhere and comes in a wide variety of options. Regardless of the age, breed, and nutritional requirement of your dog, it’s pretty easy to find a dog food that fits the bill.
However, since this pandemic will change your own and your pet’s daily routine, it’s best if you also tweak their diet by adding more fruits and vegetables. Making these changes can compensate for your dog’s lack of outdoor or physical activities, and ensure that they remain healthy even if they are only staying indoors.
Some of the healthiest and safest fruits and vegetables you can give to your dog are apples (as long as the seeds are taken out), apricot, banana, blueberries, and mango. However, if you’re looking for an easy way to feed your pet with the fruits and vegetables they need, you may consider some dry dog food choices in the market. These food options are usually made from legumes, grains, fruits, vegetables, and other nutrients which are mixed together to form into pellets. But, to ensure the dog food you choose is balanced and complete with nutrients, look for those products with a certification from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
Knowledge Is Power
Life has become challenging because of the coronavirus, but there are a lot of ways you can turn things around. Use this article as your reference so you’ll know better how you can still keep your dog healthy during this pandemic. Following all of the tips in this article might be challenging at first, but if you want what’s best for your furry friend, you should slowly adapt to all the current changes.
Tony Platz
Wednesday 2nd of December 2020
Thanks for the tips it has gotten harder since the lockdowns .
Mya Murphy
Saturday 30th of May 2020
All these should be common sense.. It's sad that it's not so common anymore. 😢
Michelle combs
Friday 29th of May 2020
Thanks for the tips
Daniel Scott
Tuesday 26th of May 2020
We have been going to the puppy park almost everyday. In addition to the puppy park , we are using puzzles and toys to keep our dogs occupied. They don't understand why no-one can pet them while we are out and about.
Mia E.
Friday 22nd of May 2020
Good ideas for dogs to stay happy and healthy during this time and other times too. Daily exercise and good food seems to be key.