Like humans have a flu season, dogs have seasons when a
contagious illness, such as canine cough, is prevalent. But, just because your dog is exposed to a
contagious virus does not necessarily mean he will get sick. While the strength and strain of a virus do
play a role, having a strong and healthy immune system can make all the
difference. Here are 5 easy ways to help
your dog build a strong and healthy immune system.
5. Keep your dog’s environment clean
While your dog may not mind being covered
in dirt or having his slobber on everything, an unclean living environment can
make him prone to illness and parasites.
Bacteria can easily grow on toys, crates, and bowls left unwashed. Additionally, dander, dirt, fur, and possibly
flea larva, will collect on beds, blankets, shrubs and the floor (carpet, dirt,
concrete, etc.) if left unattended. This
creates a breeding ground for parasites, allergens, and other health hazards. A
simple solution is to wash toys, bowls, and bedding regularly. Keep his environment as clean as possible -
free of dust/fur balls, debris, and bugs (including spiders). And pick up all pet waste regularly, disposing
of it in a waste bin away from your dog’s living area.
4. Keep your dog groomed
Just like humans, dogs are susceptible to
illness when they have poor hygiene.
Hygiene includes not only regular bathing but also trimming nails,
cleaning eyes, ears and teeth, and regular brushing – keeping your dog’s fur
free of mats and dander, and out of his eyes.
Ensuring your dog is not fighting any infections, or hosting fleas,
ticks, or other parasites, will help keep him ready to fight any illness that
comes his way.
3. Keep your dog social
Taking your dog out and about can have
adverse effects, but the benefits outweigh the potential risks. Exposing your dog to other dogs and new
environments may or may not cause him to catch an illness, but it will help him
build immunities regardless. A dog
living in a bubble (the backyard or your living room) will not have built up the
antibodies he needs to fight infection if he should catch something. Not to mention, such isolation can cause
stress and depression, which weaken the immune system. So despite the potential risk of catch a
cold, don’t be afraid of letting your dog experience the world.
2. Give your dog regular exercise
The physical and psychological benefits of
exercise are tremendous for a dog, and vital to their overall health. Regular exercise strengthens the immune
system and increases blood circulation.
It reduces the risk of heart disease and other illnesses, as well as a
dog’s susceptibility to urinary infections.
It reduces or eliminates digestive problems as well as the chance of
arthritis in senior years. Exercise reduces
stress and the likelihood of depression while helping a dog build
confidence. It keeps a dog from becoming
obese which could result in depression and/or diabetes. It calms hyperactive dogs and reduces boredom
(and therefore bad behavior such as chewing, digging, and excessive barking). And it reduces anxiety which may cause a dog
to become aggressive or territorial.
1. Give your dog a well-balanced diet &
supplements
A good diet is usually the first thing a
vet will recommend for improving a dogs overall health, so do not underestimate
the difference it can make. A
well-balanced diet with good meat and protein – low in preservatives,
by-products, and grains (corn, wheat, soy) – will help your dog stay fit and
ready to fight off illness. Additionally,
supplements can also help boost the immune system. Neem oil helps boost T cell production, while
vitamin C is a natural antiviral and antibiotic supplement. Omega fatty acids – like Primrose oil, fish
oil, and flaxseed oil – help with efficient digestion as well as the state of
eyes, skin/coat, and internal organs. Dried beans – like kidney, pinto, and red
beans – are natural antioxidants. And
Zinc supplements boost white cell production and promote fast healing of
wounds.
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