Pets Australia Issue 70 August 2017

(Michael S) #1

38


PETS | Health and wellbeing


THE HARD YARDS
Doing everything required
to help your pet live a long
and satisfying life isn’t
always easy. Some jobs,
such as giving medication
or taking your dog for a
walk on a cold winter’s day,
can often seem like chores.
Others, such as cleaning up

after your pet, can be downright unpleasant.
But they’re jobs that simply need to be done if
you want to give your pet the best-possible quality
of life. Before getting a pet, Caedmon says it is vital
that you understand exactly what is involved.
“It’s important to understand the ongoing
costs of feeding and vaccinating the pet you
choose to make sure they stay physically healthy.
Potential owners also need to understand the
time required to train and provide adequate
exercise and company to their animal. If you
work long hours and are away from home often,
depending on the pet you choose, this can cause
loneliness, boredom and problem behaviours.
Owning a pet is a commitment to meet that
animal’s needs for its lifetime.”
Despite the chores and responsibilities that
come with pet ownership, if you’re a true animal
lover, all the hard work is completely worth it.
The love and companionship a pet brings into
your life is simply unbeatable and by giving
your pet all the love and attention she deserves,
you’ll be giving her the best shot at a lifetime of
health and happiness.
“Spend time working out what it is your pet
likes to do and then provide them with the
opportunity to do it,” Caedmon says. “It will make
them happy and I don’t know any pet owner who
doesn’t get a great sense of joy from watching
their pet having fun.”

August http://www.facebook.com/petsmagazine


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Clean your bunny’s cage regularly to
help him live a long and healthy life.

Raising a rabbitRaising a rabbit
Are you the proud owner of a
fl uff y, bouncy and adorable bunny
rabbit? Here’s what you can do to
help your furry friend stay in the
best-possible shape:


  • Green leafy vegies, fresh hay and
    the best-quality commercial
    rabbit food you can aff ord, should
    form the basis of your pet’s diet

  • A good-quality diet will keep your
    bunny’s teeth in shape. “Rabbit
    teeth grow continuously
    throughout life,” Dr James says.
    “They depend on their diet to
    help wear down their teeth
    and keep all their teeth in good
    shape. Without healthy teeth, a
    rabbit will not lead a happy and
    healthy life.”

  • Regular brushing will ensure
    your rabbit doesn’t fall ill after
    swallowing too much fur

  • Give your rabbit a chance to
    safely run, jump, dig and explore
    her surroundings every day. Not
    only will this exercise her body,
    but it will also provide essential
    mental stimulation

  • Clean your rabbit’s hutch and
    bedding material regularly to
    prevent the spread of disease

  • An annual vet check-up will help
    your bunny stay in tip-top shape


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