Tips For Helping Keep Your Pets Healthy

Now I realize that some of you don't have pets or get tired of pet related posts, but for the sake of saving one pet's life, or saving someone from a nearly $1,000 pet bill to save their pet's life (been there, done that last fall), I'd like to share a few pet care tips today. Some of it is common sense and we all know it, some of it is just a reminder because life is busy, and maybe there's something you didn't know at all:

Never use plastic bowls to feed your pet. Not only can the plastic leach into the food, the plastic tends to harbor bacteria. If you absolutely must use plastic, use a BPA free one, and make sure it is dishwasher safe. Always run it after each meal through the dishwasher, or soak it in very hot water before washing.

Ceramic dishes are the best for feeding your pets. Wash thoroughly after each meal with hot, soapy water, be it dry kibble or wet dog food.

Be sure you are storing food properly. Dry food should be stored in an air tight bin, one that is food grade plastic ONLY. Canned food after it is opened should be used within 24 hours, and be sure to store it in the fridge with a can cover, or in a covered dish. Never EVER feed your pet food that is past the expiration date! (If you need food grade plastic, check with a local bakery for icing buckets for free, and rinse well. Sam's Club will often hold buckets, even if you aren't a member)

Completely empty and refill your pet's water dish at least twice a day, being sure to clean the bowl each time.

Toys can harbor germs. Try to buy ones that are washable. If giving your pets rawhides or bones, replace them on a regular basis. (We use a two day rule of thumb here on rawhide)

Wash their bedding on a regular basis, and use a non-irritant laundry soap such as All Free & Clear.

Be careful where you allow your pets to walk or wander. Remember they aren't wearing shoes (well, most of them, anyways) and will probably lick their paws. Stay away from places where chemicals can lurk such as parking lots (watch for oil spills) and moist areas such as leaf dry rots. Be very careful that they don't eat things off the ground such as mushrooms.