HOW TO ADD YEARS TO YOUR CHIHUAHUA’S LIFE
Anyone who has ever had a chihuahua wishes just one thing — that he or she has a healthy and long life. Here are five tips that can help your Chihuahua do just that.
FEED A HIGH-QUALITY DIET.
Chihuahuas fed a high-quality diet have a shiny hair coat, healthy skin, and bright eyes. A good diet can help strengthen your Chihuahua’s immune system, help maintain his or her intestinal health, help increase his or her mental acuity, help keep joints and muscles healthy, and much more.
KEEP YOUR CHIHUAHUA LEAN.
Chihuahuas that are overweight are at risk for a myriad of health issues. Obesity is the number one nutritional disease seen in Chihuahuas currently and studies have shown that being overweight or obese can shorten a chihuahua life span by as much as two years. Why? Being overweight or obese puts your Chihuahua at risk for joint disease, heart disease, and diabetes, among other things.
TAKE YOUR CHIHUAHUA TO THE VETERINARIAN REGULARLY.
All Chihuahuas, require regular veterinary care. However, veterinary care goes far beyond routine vaccinations, even though those are important. A routine examination by your veterinarian can uncover health issues of which you are unaware of. In many cases, an early diagnosis improves the chances of successful treatment. Early diagnosis is also likely to be less costly for you than waiting until your Chihuahua’s illness has become advanced and serious before attempting treatment.
KEEP YOUR CHIHUAHUA’S MOUTH CLEAN.
A common problem among chihuahua, dental disease, and oral health issues can cause your Chihuahua pain, making it difficult for him or her to eat. If left untreated, oral health issues may even lead to heart and kidney disease. In addition to regular dental checkups, the most effective means of caring for your Chihuahua’s mouth at home is to brush his or her teeth at home. If your Chihuahua isn’t a big fan of toothbrushes there are other alternatives as well, including dental diets, treats, and toys. Ask your veterinarian for some recommendations.
DO NOT ALLOW YOUR CHIHUAHUA TO ROAM UNSUPERVISED.
Allowing your chihuahua to roam free may seem like you’re doing your Chihuahua a favor. However, Chihuahuas that roam are susceptible to a number of dangers, including automobile accidents, predation, exposure to contagious diseases, exposure to poisons, and more. Additionally, allowing your Chihuahua to roam unsupervised may alienate your neighbors should your Chihuahua ever “relieve” him- or herself in their lawn or dig up their garden.
