Pets make excellent companions: they provide comfort, friendship, infinite snuggles, live entertainment, and, perhaps most significantly, unconditional love. We can create extremely strong ties with our animal companions, but that relationship must be founded on mutual love and trust. It’s easy to get Fido’s tail moving or Fluffy to purr. However, if you truly want to make your pet feel appreciated, read on! In this article by Armitage Animal Clinic, your Newmarket, Ontario pet hospital, a local veterinarian provides some insight into the topic below.
Talk To Your Pet
While we don’t know exactly how many words our animal friends understand, it could be more than you think. According to research, Fido understands more than 100 words and phrases. The average pup can learn approximately 165 words, while some extremely intelligent puppies can learn up to 250.
Of course, even if your pet doesn’t understand what you’re saying, chatting to them can be quite useful. The sound of your voice will calm your pet. They will also understand that you are speaking with them.
Always communicate in a soft, welcoming tone. Many pets love the ‘baby talk’ tone, however it is not required. Pay attention to your pet’s reactions. You may discover that the more you talk to and connect with your furry companion, the more interactive they become.
Play With Your Pet Regularly
Playing with your pet can also help them feel loved and safe. This promotes bonding and helps your pet stay fit and robust. This is obviously highly crucial for their health. Stimulation and entertainment are also critical to their health and well-being.
Keep in mind that each pet is unique, and they all have different preferences for how they like to play. One cat may be obsessed with catching the red dot from a laser pointer, while another may have little interest and like slamming ice cubes around the kitchen floor. Try different toys and games to determine what your pet prefers.
Show Your Pet Affection
No surprises: belly massages, ear scritches, and forehead pets can all help your pet relax and feel loved. You should never impose attention on a pet; it can backfire and make them feel uneasy or terrified. However, many creatures need the feeling of being loved. That close contact is beneficial for both of you. When you cuddle with your pet, a particular hormone called oxytocin is released. This is the same hormone released when moms and newborns snuggle. It increases feelings of safety and affection.
Give Your Pet Small Comforts
Pets have a way of teaching us to value the small things. A nice bed can greatly improve your pet’s quality of life. Orthopedic beds are appropriate for many dogs, especially older and large breeds.
Cats will sleep on almost anything. You can make pleasant napping areas for Fluffy simply by placing soft folded blankets in boxes or baskets or on an ottoman.
Keep Up With Your Pet’s Grooming Needs
Many animals groom one another to express love and devotion. While some pets require more grooming than others, simply brushing your pet can make them feel loved and safe. This also applies to bathing. Fido may not enjoy baths, but he will feel much better with clean fur. Don’t forget about nail and dental health!
Offer Your Pet Fun Toys
It’s always cute to see how thrilled pets get when you give them a new toy. No matter how many toys Fluffy and Fido already own, they are always excited to try something new. Remember to pick up new toys on a frequent basis. If you’re on a low budget, as many are these days, consider DIY options.
Learn to Read Their Body Language
When it comes to understanding pets, we must rely on nonverbal signs. While most individuals understand the fundamentals, numerous intricacies are readily overlooked. For example, a nervous cat may sit in a hunched position, but an apprehensive dog may wag his tail slowly. Take the time to learn about your pet and what their posture, expression, and behavior indicate.
It’s also important to understand the indicators of discomfort and pain. Some are evident, while others can be more subtle. This is significant because many medical problems can be treated more successfully if they are detected and recognized early.
Provide Stimulation.
Toys are vital here. However, they should not be the only type of enrichment for your pet. Cats are safer indoors, but they enjoy peering out windows and observing birds and squirrels. Fido will benefit from frequent walks and play sessions. Even something as simple as leaving a light and television on for your pet when you leave them home alone can improve their quality of life.
Visit Your Newmarket, ON Veterinary Clinic
We know Fido and Fluffy prefer to stay at home rather than go to the Newmarket, ON vet. However, much like humans, they require regular health care to remain happy and healthy. In addition to attending their regular appointments, they should keep an eye out for symptoms of illness. If you observe any symptoms of illness or pain, seek medical attention right once.
In conclusion, pets can develop strong attachments to their humans. That relationship and bond will not develop on their own. Small touches can make a big difference in helping your pet feel appreciated and increasing their overall quality of life.
Make An Appointment At Your Newmarket, ON Pet Hospital
Is it time for your pet’s appointment? Contact us at Armitage Animal Clinic, your Newmarket, Ontario pet hospital. We are always happy to help!
