23-05-2025
Three things vet says will help your dog live longer
Three things vet says will help your dog live longer
Every dog owner wants their furry friend to live as long as possible, and a vet says these three daily activities can help
Cleaning your dog's teeth maintains good dental hygiene and is a way to bond with your pet.
(Image: Getty )
A vet has listed three ways dog owners can help their four-legged friends live a long and healthy life. Taking to TikTok, Dr Hunter Finn uploaded a video to his 2.1 million followers about what pet owners should do daily that'll help their canine friends in the long run.
Maintaining your dog's health is crucial as it affects their lifespan, quality of life, and the owner's well-being. A healthy dog is less prone to avoidable medical issues and can enjoy a longer, more fulfilling life.
A healthy dog is at a lower risk of developing chronic illnesses, which can affect their quality of life and raise veterinary expenses. Regular check-ups can help identify health problems early, resulting in more effective treatment and survival rates.
Several daily activities and tasks all dog owners should do to boost their pet's lifespan and overall quality of life, such as walking, playing, and providing shelter, healthcare, food, and water. Neglecting these basic needs can lead to suffering and health problems.
Having a healthy dog can also positively impact an owner's mental and physical health. Dogs help lower stress, alleviate feelings of loneliness, and promote physical activity, which can boost cardiovascular health and increase overall happiness.
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Dr Hunter Finn's top three ways to extend your dog's lifespan:
Brush their teeth daily. Daily mental and physical exercise. Once yearly exams with a vet of your choosing.
Daily brushing of your dog's teeth is important for their overall health and can help prevent a range of dental issues. Regular brushing eliminates plaque and tartar build-up, which can result in gingivitis and other dental conditions. Additionally, it helps prevent systemic diseases, as bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and cause problems for other organs.
Regular mental and physical activity is also essential for a dog's well-being. Insufficient exercise can lead to numerous issues, such as behavioural problems, weight gain, and even aggression.
The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) says: "Regular exercise for dogs is essential – it helps keep them in shape and is important for their mental health. Fit and active dogs are less likely to suffer from arthritis, obesity and behaviour problems. It's important to make sure you have the time and ability to give your dog the exercise they need." Types of exercise include:
Physical exercise: This includes walks, runs, games like fetch, and playing at the dog park.
This includes walks, runs, games like fetch, and playing at the dog park. Mental exercise: Training sessions, puzzle toys, and nose work are examples of activities that stimulate a dog's mind.
Dogs need similar care and attention to what humans do
How much daily exercise your dog needs varies depending on breed, age, health, and energy levels. Typically, dogs need anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours of exercise each day, which can be divided into several sessions. Certain dogs, particularly those with high energy, might need more exercise compared to others.
Dr Fin says annual vet check-ups are another important thing to do for your dog. They help in spotting health issues early, which can help avoid complications and mean treatment is given quicker. Consistent visits also enable your vet to keep track of your dog's general health, recognise possible concerns, and offer personalised guidance on lifestyle and preventive care.
Many viewers were grateful to Dr Finn for sharing the three tips. One TikTok user replied: "Yesss!!!! Always bringing the Best tips for our precious babies!!" A second commented: "U know I never knew how important their dental health was until I got a pup of my own. I brush my boys everyday."
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