Did you know that the third week of July is Feed A Rescue Dog Week? If you’ve just adopted a rescue dog, or are perhaps planning to in the near future, it’s important to do a little research about your canine buddy’s diet. Proper nutrition is crucial to Fido’s health and well-being. A Tampa, FL vet offers some tips on this below.
Don’t Skimp On Treats
Normally, we caution people about going too crazy with snacks and treats. However, if you’ve just adopted Fido, it’s important to win his trust. Treats are of course extremely helpful with that! Just stick with smaller ones, so you don’t overfeed him.
Do Some Breed Research
Fido’s breed will also play a role in his ideal diet. Larger dogs may need brands that offer joint support, while another dog may benefit from a vision-support formula. Do some research, and consult your vet.
Make Changes Slowly
If Fido has come from a shelter, he may already be used to eating a variety of different foods. This is because many shelters rely on donations, which may change from week to week. However, if he’s been eating the same thing for a while, he’ll need to change his menu slowly. Switching foods too quickly could upset your pup’s tummy! You’ll want to start by mixing the old and new foods together.
Consult Your Vet
Your vet can be a wonderful resource for information about keeping Fido happy and healthy. Don’t be afraid to ask for nutritional tips! You’ll want to get some solid feedback on things like brands, portion sizes, and feeding schedules.
Be Cautious
Most rescue dogs have been tested for food aggression before being adopted. However, this is still something to be cautious about. If your canine pal gets possessive over his dinner, you’ll want to check with your vet or a professional behaviorist.
Read Labels
Reading pet food labels isn’t rocket science … it’s nutritional science, which can be almost as confusing! There are a lot of marketing techniques to be aware of here. For instance, something that says ‘chicken flavor’ may only contain tiny amounts of chicken. Do some research on label formats and requirements. Avoid brands with long lists of ingredients you can’t identify or pronounce.
Do you have any questions about your canine companion’s diet, health, or care? Call us, your Tampa, FL pet hospital!
