Friends of the Riney Canine Health Center,
Thank you for joining our pack! I’m Brian Collins, an extension associate for the Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center, and I’m pleased to share this month’s “From the Vet’s Desk” monthly health tip with our members.
Welcome to the Canine New Year’s Resolutions Edition!
Though I don’t tend to make resolutions for myself (since they don’t last long!), I was thinking that I would suggest some resolutions we can make for our dogs this year. It’s a great opportunity to strengthen the bond between you and your canine friend.
Preventive care
Schedule regular check-ups with your vet and keep your dog current on recommended vaccinations. It can be challenging to remember to give heartworm and flea and tick preventive medications when they are due, but it’s so important to give them on time. I rely on an old school wall calendar, but there are also apps you can use on your phone to help remind you.
Pet insurance
Some plans cover basic preventive care such as vaccinations, preventives and spaying/neutering. However, pet insurance can be most helpful when there are unexpected expenses such as during emergencies or when specialized care is needed. It helps enable dog owners to have access to advanced medical and surgical care. There are websites that rate and compare plans. My pets are insured, and it brings me great peace of mind.
Dental care
My clients and other people who know me well will confirm that I am somewhat obsessive when it comes to brushing my dogs’ teeth. Years ago, I decided that I needed to commit to brushing their teeth every day. While I do miss a day now and then, overall, it has become a nightly ritual in my household. My dogs know that a tasty dental treat is awaiting them, so they actually get excited. With dental disease being one of the most common conditions affecting dogs, it’s an excellent means to help reduce dental disease and keep their breath fresh. Your vet will let you know when it’s time for a professional cleaning.
Exercise and mental stimulation
Regular physical activity is an important part of promoting good health. Strive to provide your dog with consistent exercise, whether it’s a daily hike on a favorite trail, a game of fetch, a visit
to the dog park, or enrollment in doggy daycare. When the season allows, swimming can be a great way to have fun and burn calories. Agility classes are an excellent activity that provides both mental and physical stimulation while also allowing great socialization with other dogs and people in a safe environment. If the weather is too hot or cold, consider taking a trip to the local pet store or other business where dogs are welcome to help get those steps in and provide mental stimulation. Adjust the activity level based on your dog’s breed, age and abilities.
Weight management
Your vet can help determine what an ideal weight range for your dog should be and if your dog is overweight -- another one of the most common health problems we see in dogs. If necessary, weight loss can be accomplished through a combination of choosing an appropriate diet, calculating your dog’s calorie needs and then feeding the proper portions. Additional steps include feeding healthy treats in moderation, weighing your dog every 2-4 weeks and encouraging exercise that is appropriate for your dog’s health. It’s important for the whole family to be consistent as well as patient – weight loss of 1-2% per week is a reasonable goal.
Safety
Safety begins with proper identification. An ID tag attached to your dog’s collar or harness can provide a quick means for someone to contact you if your dog wanders away – but the tag itself can become lost. This is why a microchip is recommended for all dogs – it’s permanent and your information can be found with a quick scan of your dog at a vet office or animal shelter. Other options include AirTags and GPS trackers. If your dog has a fenced-in yard, check it regularly to make sure it is secure and in good repair, but keep in mind that small dogs, in particular, can be at risk from predators that a fence won’t keep out. For the safety of your whole family, be sure to have functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and change the batteries regularly. For those car rides to the park or to the vet, keep your dog safe with a seat belt, in a crate, or behind a barrier in the back. Dogs should never ride in the back of a pickup truck.
Whether it’s a daily walk, a good teeth-brushing session, or extra belly rubs, your dog is already among the most happy, spoiled dogs out there!
We wish you and your dog a healthy, fun-filled 2025.
As always, thank you for being a Riney Canine Health Center member. We look forward to catching up with you next month!
Dr. Brian Collins, D.V.M. ‘94
