The concept of animal welfare is usually related only to animals intended for human consumption. However, any living being has the right to have a dignified life in which its needs are respected. We tell you the keys to the welfare of a pet dog.
What we call the welfare of a dog
The welfare of a dog or any animal refers, as its name indicates, to a situation in which it can live well. That is, that it resembles what is natural according to its species and its needs. Having an animal under our care is a responsibilitythat includes different aspects, and that does not only refer to providing food.
As is the case with humans, and as we have said on other occasions, our needs include relationships with other members of our species, affection and health care.
Therefore, we want to emphasize the care that is needed for the welfare of a dog. It must be taken into account that the purpose of these is not only the happiness of the animal, but also theprevention of diseases.
Animal welfare care
Quality food
Feeding is the most basic aspect of a dog’s well-being. However, it must be of high quality. In order to enjoy good health and avoid the development of diseases, as some of them are directly related to nutrition, the animal must ingest all the necessary nutrients.
When the diet is not varied or there are deficiencies, problems appear which, if not treated correctly, can lead to serious pathologies. To avoid this, the feed must be of high quality, as many are based on animal by-products and may not include the necessary vitamins and minerals. In addition, water should always be available in abundance.
On the other hand, it is important to know which foods are harmful to your health. Not everything we humans ingest is tolerated by them. So in order to maintain a dog’s well-being, we must consult if something is suitable before giving it to him.
Time to play
Even though our friend is no longer a puppy, he also needs to play and engage in regular physical activity for proper emotional health. While people may spend days at home of their own free will, a dog’s well-being necessarily involves daily walks.
In addition, depending on its breed, it may have greater needs. Thus, while some may be satisfied with a simple walk, others need to run and/or walk longer distances to avoid anxiety and stay fit. Regarding toys, we must verify that they are not toxic. Playing with animals develops bonding, which is very important for their happiness.
Medical care
Animals have a higher resistance to disease than humans. We must know how to identify pain in dogs, as well as strange behaviors that can warn us that something is wrong. The welfare of a dog requires medical assistance whenever something happens to him. Even if some lesions seem unimportant to us, we must go to the veterinarian to treat them.