Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and many of us love to spoil our four legged family members. If you feel like skipping the heart shaped catnip toys and rawhides this year, we have put together a practical gift guide which will show your pet how much you really care.
5. Nutritional Food And Treats
As the owner of Atlantic Pet Sitting, based in Myrtle Beach, SC, I come across tons of different types of pet foods and treats. Just like the foods we eat, pet foods vary in their nutritional values.
It can be quite overwhelming when it comes to picking out a food for your pet. I am not a veterinarian or nutritionist, but I do know that balance is important in the diet of your pet. It’s important to be sure the food you purchase is “age” appropriate to your pet as designated on the food packaging.
The nutrition of your pet can play a huge role in their energy levels, skin and coat, and overall health.
A great way to find the right match for your pup or cat is to ask your veterinarian. They can point you in the right direction of putting together an effective nutritional plan.
4. Routine Dental Care
February is National Pet Dental Health Month so now would be a great time to schedule a routine checkup and cleaning with your veterinarian.
If your dog constantly experiences “dog” breath, or you pull away when your cat yawns, you should make an appointment for a cleaning. Routine dental health checks will keep your pet healthy, and will also save you money in the long run before a serious health issue occurs. These issues can not only affect their teeth and gums, but can also pose threat to internal organs.
Now is a great time to schedule that cleaning as many local Grand Strand veterinarians are offering coupons on February visits.
3. Exercise And Socializing
Our biggest initiative at Atlantic Pet Sitting is advocating the exercise and socialization of pets. To keep your pet healthy, both mentally and physically, daily exercise is very important. This includes both cats and dogs. 
Exercising a cat can be done with complex toys like laser pointers and mazes, but can be done easily with something as simple as a string. Daily play time will engage your cat and can prevent behavioral issues, and will help them to maintain a healthy weight.
Those of us who live in Myrtle Beach, and surrounding areas, are extremely lucky to have beaches and dog parks where we can take our dogs. With Spring on the way, Myrtle Beach hosts multiple community events where dogs are welcome and can socialize with other people and dogs.
As with cats, exercise plays a vital role in the happiness and obedience of your dog.
2. Microchipping
According to Pet WebMD, up to 8 million pets end up in shelters every year, and only 15-20% of dogs and less than 2% of cats are reclaimed by their owners.
A great way to increase the likelihood of finding your pet if you ever find yourself in this terrible situation is through microchipping. Microchipping involves the placement of a tiny microchip (about the size of a grain of rice) under your pet’s skin.
Veterinarians and shelters scan for microchips when a pet is brought to them. If one is found they can contact the owner in order to return the lost pet.
If you already have your pet microchipped, please take a minute right now to double check your information is correct on the profile. Many pets are found, but the owner information (phone number and address) is no longer correct. Make sure your profile is up to date for all your pets.
I have seen pet stores and veterinary clinics in the Myrtle Beach area who are offering lifetime microchipping services for as low as $25. This is a great investment!
1. Shiny New Necklace
If you really want to show your love this Valentine’s Day, get your pet some “bling”. Replacing that old collar and outdated contact tag will be the first line of defense if your pet is lost.
On multiple occasions over the last few months I have found cats and dogs loose in neighborhoods. When I have approached them, I have noticed they either didn’t have a collar, or had a collar with no contact information on it.
Please be sure your pet consistently wears a collar with your current contact information on it. Some new collars can even embroider the pet name and contact information on the collar. These are great so even if they lose the tag, they will still have a chance to get home. If they lose the collar, they should have a microchip as a last resort.
Spoiling your pet on Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be expensive. These practical Valentine’s Day gifts will help your pet live and long and healthy life.
And while you’re at it, make sure to give them an extra hug this Valentine’s Day!
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