For pets, playtime is about more than just good plain fun. It’s an essential part of their healthy routine! Here, learn about some of the wonderful benefits of regular playtime from your Dallas, GA vet.
Exercise
When your pet is playing, they’re also exercising. All pets need their exercise to keep muscles and joints limber, burn off excess calories, and prevent dangerous obesity. Make a point to set aside time every day to play with your animal companion—romp around on the floor with a favorite toy, jog in circles around the backyard, or play hide-and-seek with a few tasty pet treats. Try asking your veterinarian what kind of play might be most beneficial to your pet based on their age and physical attributes.
Improved Behavior
When pets don’t get out excess energy by playing, they might start to act out in undesirable ways. This might manifest in aggression toward owners or other pets in the house, digging, scratching, chewing, house soiling and urine spraying, loud vocalizations, and more. By wearing your pet out via healthy playtime, you’ll be avoiding the chance of serious issues like these! On the whole, pets who receive consistent, regular play are far better behaved.
Mental Stimulation
Just like your pet’s body, their brain needs a healthy workout as well. Playtime is perfect for accomplishing just that! Your pet’s brain requires regular stimulation and engagement; pets who lay around all day tend to become unhappy, not to mention overweight. Try playing a game with your dog or having your cat chase around a laser light. Puzzle toys are another great solution. Ask your vet for further suggestions on great stimulating playtime ideas.
Bonding Time
A final way that playtime benefits your pet is this: it provides an opportunity for important bonding between animal and owner. The relationship that you and your pet share is one of the strongest you may ever know—it’s important that you don’t take it for granted! Strengthen and nurture your bond with your pet by playing with them every day. Not only will it give them a great physical and mental workout, it will bring the two of you closer together!
Would you like to know more about great play techniques for your pet? Does your animal friend need a veterinary examination, vaccinations, or pest-control products? We are here for you—schedule an appointment at your Dallas, GA veterinary clinic.
