I recently had someone ask me (over dinner) - what are the most common mistakes that pet owners make with their pets?

I had to think for a few minutes, but 6 major things came to mind. I thought I'd share them with you in hopes that we can prevent a problem with your pet.

Here are six mistakes many pet owners make:

1. Not having a yearly examination done on their pets. Yearly exams are important and can isolate potential health problems early while they are still treatable.

2. Don't keep a current ID tag on their pet or embed microchip. Many pets don't have a current ID tag or microchip. These two items provide the BEST information so your lost pet can be returned to you. At the clinics - we often see pets brought in without a tag or microchip for identification. Without Identification, many of these pets are never reunited with their owners and are either put up for adoption or in more sad cases, euthanized.

3. Allow their dog to run free. This is a problem for many reasons. Dogs that are permitted to "run free" often get into trash, ingest toxins or are traumatized by being hit by a car or in a fight with another animal. This can be prevented by keeping a dog within a fenced yard or on a leash.

4. Skimping on nutrition. A good quality food is important to dogs. Skimping on nutrition can be a problem. Dogs need a high quality balanced diet that is formulated to meet their life-stage needs.

5. Don't monitor their dogs. It is important to monitor dogs on a daily basis. Dogs are so good at hiding their illnesses that often by the time we notice - the disease may be quite advanced. For this reason - it is important to look for early signs of problems. Monitor your dog's urinations, defecations, attitude and appetite every day.

6. Lastly, many pet owners don't pay attention to toxins and medications that may be laying around and accessible to their dog. It is important to dog-proof your home to ensure your dog can't get into common toxins such as rat poison, anti-freeze, medications (dog and human) or the trash.

I know that feeding a high quality diet costs a bit more, but in my opinion it is an investment in your dog's well being. I know that in the current economy saving money is a top priority, so I want to make you aware that Hill's Science Diet is offering a $5.00 OFF coupon on their website - you can print it by going to feedingisbelieving.com and scroll down to the bottom.

Whatever you do, keep your dog safe. Most importantly, ensure your dog is being fed a good quality food, sees your veterinarian yearly. Also, make sure your home is "dog-proof".

Dr. Jon

Source: Petplace.com Sept 2008