8 Things Every Pet Parent Needs

For pet owners, the health and happiness of their beloved animals is of utmost importance. Pets offer unlimited love and companionship, but keeping them healthy and joyful requires a considerable dedication, including the expenditure of time, effort, and financial resources.

To help you provide the best possible care for your pet, consider these eight essential things that every pet parent should have. From necessities like high-quality food and water to grooming tools and toys, these items can help keep your pet healthy, happy, and well-cared for.

1. High-Quality Food and Clean Water

Good nutrition is vital for pet health, and high-quality food items, like 100% grass-fed beef dog food, can help meet your pet’s dietary needs. Avoid fillers such as corn, soy, or wheat products that provide little nutrition when choosing food. Instead, opt for raw freeze-dried or sustainably sourced chicken, lamb, or fish dog food for your pet.

Ensure your pet has access to plenty of water throughout the day to keep them hydrated and prevent dehydration or kidney problems. Most research indicates that a healthy water intake is a one-to-one ratio[2] of water to kcals consumed per day for dogs. Provide your cat or dog with clean drinking water from the faucet or a factory-sealed bottle to keep them hydrated and prevent potential infections or digestive problems from unclean water.

2. Supplements and Treats

Supplements and treats can help keep your pet healthy and happy. Consider products designed specifically for your pet’s breed, age, and health needs. For example, an older dog may need hip and joint supplements, while a dog with dry skin may benefit from skin and coat care supplements.

Consider giving your dog supplements with a special dog kibble, such as humanely raised venison dog food, with ingredients like chickpeas, pumpkin, and coconut oil to help their digestion.

For treats, choose high-quality ingredients that provide nutritional benefits while giving a tasty reward to your pet. Opt for a product like Cod Skin dog treats which are a good source of omega fatty acids for your pup.

3. Collar and ID Tag

A collar and ID tag can help you find your pet if it gets lost or stolen. Choose a collar that fits properly—not too tight enough to cause discomfort but not so loose it will slip off. Attach the ID tag to your pet’s collar and include information like your name, address, phone number, and email so whoever finds your pet can reach you.

Registering your pet with a microchip company is also a good idea in case the collar or tag is ever removed or damaged. The Illumiseen LED Dog Collar is a great option that provides additional visibility during long walks and runs.

4. Leash and Harness

Invest in a leash and harness to keep your pet safe when outdoors. Look for well-made leashes that are strong yet lightweight, providing your pet with optimal mobility and giving you directional control. Choose an adjustable harness that fits securely and allows your pet to move freely while walking or running on trails.

When using the leash or harness in different environments, be mindful of potential hazards, such as trees and rocks. The Ruffwear Front Range Everyday Dog Harness offers durable construction for long-term wear, combined with optimal comfort, to ensure an enjoyable experience for you and your pet.

5. Bed and Crate

A bed and crate are essential for your pet’s comfort and safety. A bed with quality materials like orthopedic or memory foam provides comfortable support to puppies, kittens, and older animals. Consider buying beds with removable cotton covers so you can wash them regularly.

When choosing a crate, select one that is the right size for your pet and is made of durable material, such as metal or plastic. The crate should have enough space for your pet to move around comfortably, stand up and lie down without being cramped or restricted. The Best Friends by Sheri Calming Donut Bed and the Andover Mills Atkinson Pet Crate are excellent options for providing a comfortable, safe space for your pet.

6. Toys

Toys help stimulate your pet mentally and physically, preventing anxiety, depression, and destructive behavior. Look for toys that are safe and durable, and avoid those with sharp edges or small parts that your pet can easily swallow. Natural materials like leather, cotton rope, wood, rubber, or canvas are better than synthetic materials because they contain no harmful chemicals.

Toys with multi-sensory features such as squeakers, feathers, bells, and crinkly paper can provide extra stimulation for your pet. The Tucker Murphy Pet Almaha Cat Tree and Starmark Bob-a-Lot can provide your pet with endless hours of play.

7. Grooming Supplies

Grooming supplies are necessary to maintain the health of your pet’s coat. These tools help free their coat of dirt, debris, and matting, which can cause skin conditions due to oil and skin cell buildup. Choose brushes and combs specifically designed for the type of fur your pet has; smooth-coated dogs should have a bristle brush, while long-haired dogs need a wide-toothed comb.

Make sure you have scissors on hand in case mats form around sensitive areas, such as paws and ears, which need trimming rather than brushing out. The FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool is an excellent option for removing loose fur while being gentle on your pet’s skin.

8. An Attentive Veterinarian

A compassionate and experienced veterinarian ensures your pet’s overall health and well-being. A good vet has the necessary medical knowledge and skills to diagnose and treat your pet’s health issues and understands the emotional bond between pets and their owners.

Look for a compassionate vet who provides personalized care that considers your pet’s needs and personality and offers support and guidance for you as a pet parent. You can find a qualified veterinarian in your area using an online database, such as the American Animal Hospital Association’s (AAHA) hospital locator.

Give Your Pet a Happy, Healthy Life

Investing in high-quality pet food, mentally stimulating toys, and grooming tools is vital to providing your pet with a safe environment. Having these essential items on-hand can support your pet’s happiness and health and help you care for it in a way that shows just how important they are to you and your family.