How to Keep Your Basset Hound Healthy

   October is National Pet Wellness Month so we wanted to share some tips on keeping your Basset Hound or any breed healthy.

Find a veterinarian that you trust.

Selecting your puppy’s veterinarian is one of your most important responsibilities. Ask friends and family who they use, read reviews, and look for the AAHA logo. You have to trust your pet’s doctor and be able to talk to them openly about any concerns that you have.

Feed Quality Food

There are more choices than ever when it comes to feeding our dogs. You can choose from kibble, canned, raw, homemade, and dehydrated. The decision is personal and should be left up to you and your veterinarian. If you aren’t already, become a label reader. You will be shocked at what some companies pass off as 100% nutritionally complete. We are firm believers and ambassadors for Dr. Harvey’s. They have a Basset Hound named Sasha so I knew they understood the love I have for Bentley.

Take Care of Those Ears

I spent the first 7 years of Bentley’s life fighting ear infections. We spent a small fortune on office visits and medications not to mention how painful it was for him and those massive Basset ears. This is no longer a problem. We have gone since January without a single infection. That is because we use The Purple Stuff. It’s a homemade mixture that is a miracle in a bottle to me. You have to be sure your dog doesn’t have an infection when you begin using it then, just follow these instructions. 

Take Care of Those Pearly Whites

Did you know that proper dental care could add an extra 2 years to your dog’s life? That alone should be the incentive to get them used to brushing their teeth. Dental disease is found in 80% of dogs by the age of 3. It doesn’t have to be that way. It is never too late to begin an oral care routine. If they won’t tolerate you brushing their teeth, try dental chews, preventative drops in their water, or raw bones. Your veterinarian should examine your dog’s teeth and gums at each visit. They might recommend a professional cleaning to help get your older dog on the right path to dental care. There are also many natural ways to clean your pup's teeth. *Always observe your dog with any type of chew or bone.

Nailed It

Basset Hounds nails are usually black and very thick. That can make them prone to splitting and cutting into the quick. You can have your veterinarian or groomer show you the proper technique to keeping your pup’s pedicure painless. It is easier for me to have our vet tech cut Bentley’s nails. Long nails can be painful and affect the walk a dog walks. Their toes will become splayed without proper nail care.

Exercise and Play

Nothing can be more boring than sitting in the house all day long. Make sure that you are setting aside time in your day to connect with your dog either by playing or taking a nice walk. You’ll be surprised how much better you’re going to feel after you spend quality time throwing a ball or walking around the neighborhood. It is easy to forget that having fun with our dogs is a great way to stay on the road to wellness.  

Unconditional Love

All animals crave love and that includes your dog. They are pack animals who want nothing more than to share their lives with you. Take them for a walk, a run, or just let them sit next to you on the couch. Let them know that you love them and they can trust you 100% of the time. Never underestimate the importance of the emotional well-being of your best friend. 

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