When you decide to adopt a shelter dog, you’re helping give a deserving animal a new lease on life, while enhancing your own in tremendous ways. However, bringing a new pet into the household comes with considerable responsibilities, particularly regarding their physical health and fitness. Ensuring your shelter dog is in the best possible health helps build a strong bond while enhancing the quality of life for both of you.
One of the first orders of business after adoption should be a comprehensive veterinary check-up. Shelter dogs often come with a history of neglect or abuse, meaning that they may possess minor to severe health problems. A regular vet check would instantly flag any potential health conditions that require immediate treatment and attention, enabling your furry friend to start on a healthy, happier note in their new home. Your vet can also tailor a diet chart that suits your pet’s age, breed, and current health status, ensuring optimal nutrition.
Exercise and fitness are equally critical to your new dog’s wellbeing. Shelter dogs, in large part, lack the opportunity for regular and appropriate physical activity, leading to issues like obesity or anxiety. Introducing regular walking or playtime routines can make a vast difference in their overall physical health and happiness. Start slow with short walks around the block or gentle play sessions in your backyard, gradually increasing the intensity as they become comfortable and fit.
It is also vital to mentally stimulate your new pet. They could be pining for a past life or unsure about their new surroundings. Involving them in puzzle games or training them with basic commands can boost their brain health and elevate their confidence, easing them into your family setting.
Fostering a shelter dog brings countless rewards, but the journey is not without its challenges. As a responsible pet parent, make their health a priority through careful healthcare and a regular regime of physical exercise. After all, a healthy pet is a happy pet!
