October is Pet Wellness Month: 10 Ways to Pamper Your Pet and Boost their Well-Being

Perhaps you pamper your pet with monthly grooming visits, their favorite specialty pet food, and lots of pets and scratches. But have you thought of protecting their health as a way to treat them?

October is Pet Wellness Month, a perfect time to focus on the health and well-being of our beloved pets. Our furry family members bring us so much comfort and joy, and in return we’re their faithful guardians, responsible for keeping them happy and healthy. By taking a proactive approach to their wellness, we can help our pets live longer, more vibrant lives.

But what are the best ways to support your pet’s overall well-being? Read on to learn 10 simple ways to pamper them with prevention!

The Power of Preventative Pet Care

Why wait until your fur baby is sick to care about their well-being?

Preventative care is the best way to ensure your pet's well-being is to catch potential issues early before they develop into bigger, more serious problems.

There are many ways we as pet owners can protect our pet’s health: regular check-ups with your veterinarian, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise are all key aspects of preventative care.

But beyond the basics, there are many other ways to support their well-being so they not only avoid disease and injury, but feel their absolute best. One way is to incorporate natural and holistic therapies (such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and aromatherapy) to enhance their health, keep them calm, and maintain their playful, happy nature as long as possible.

While these therapies are great for addressing active symptoms (like pain or digestive issues), they are often most effective when used preventatively. For instance, TCM focuses on maintaining balance and harmony within the body to prevent disease, boost their immune system, and improve their overall quality of life.

Let’s find out which tools and habits can help you best support your pet’s well-being and keep them healthy longer.

12 Natural Tips for Your Pet's Well-being

Make a Few Healthy Home Updates

Creating a safe and toxin-free environment for your pets is one of the best ways to make sure they live a comfortable and healthy life. To start, you could switch to natural cleaning products, avoid chemical-laden air fresheners, and decorate with houseplants that are non-toxic to pets.

Switch to Orthopedic Bedding

Have you ever gotten back pain or lost sleep thanks to an old or uncomfortable mattress? Well the same can happen to our pets. Many pet beds are made to look nice in our homes, but don’t provide the support our pets need. Instead, invest in a high-quality orthopedic bed for your pet. These beds provide better support for joints and muscles, which is especially beneficial for older pets or those with arthritis. Plus, a well-rested pet is a happier, calmer pet!

Stay Active – Physically and Mentally

Regular exercise is essential for anyone’s well-being – and that includes your pet! Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, reduces stress, and promotes cardiovascular health.

Don’t forget, mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise! Engage your pet's mind with puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games. Mental stimulation games help prevent boredom, reduce anxiety, and promote cognitive health, especially in older pets.

In short, daily walks, play sessions, and interactive toys to keep your pet (and you!) active.

Healthy Hydration

It may seem obvious, but it’s important to make sure your pet has access to fresh, clean water at all times. Proper hydration is vital for digestion, circulation, and temperature regulation. Switching from a bowl to a pet water fountain can encourage your pet to drink more.

Beyond plain water, there are other ways to boost your pet’s health and keep them hydrated. Why not try offering them a small bowl of warm bone broth in the colder months, or bone broth popsicles in the summer?

Make Healthy Treat Swaps

Most store-bought treats are made with poor quality ingredients and fattening fillers. But there are so many healthier alternatives! Fresh fruits (like apple slices or watermelon) and vegetables (like carrot sticks or cucumbers) make excellent low-calorie treats.

One of the best ways to treat your pet is with protein-rich treats, like Farm to Pet Chicken Chips or Turkey Chips. These are made from solely chicken or turkey protein and make a great addition to your pet’s daily diet.

Try TCM Herbal Tinctures

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) isn’t just for helping humans stay well – pet’s thrive with TCM, too. Try adding preventative herbal tinctures into your pet's routine; these are easy to add to their food or drinking water. Formulas can address specific health issues, or work preventatively by boosting immunity, mobility, digestive health, and promoting overall wellness.

Use Aromatherapy for a Calm Pet

Being a pampered pet sounds like heaven, but our pets do experience stress from time to time. From loud noises like fireworks to separation anxiety and everything in between, the world can be a scary place to our four-legged friends. Aromatherapy is a simple way to create a calming environment for your pet. Diffuse essential oils like lavender and chamomile to help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Just make sure you choose pet-safe essential oils and the diffuser is placed in a well-ventilated area.

Keep Up with Grooming

Is your pet in need of a new beauty routine? Regular grooming sessions keep your pet's coat and skin healthy. Brushing removes dead hair, prevents matting, and distributes natural oils. Bathing with a gentle, natural shampoo keeps the skin clean and reduces the risk of infections.

Nourish with a Balanced Diet

A balanced, nutritious diet tailored to your pet’s specific needs is one of the most impactful things you can do to help them live their healthiest life. Consult with your veterinarian to choose the best diet for your pet's age, breed, and health conditions. Include a mix of high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Don’t Skip Dental Care

You and your pet may grimace at the thought of brushing their teeth, but it’s essential for their overall health. Brush your pet’s teeth regularly with pet-safe toothpaste to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Dental chews and toys (like Split Elk Antler chews) designed to clean teeth can also help maintain oral hygiene and prevent dental diseases. When all else fails, treat them with crunchy, high-water content foods to help keep buildup down.

How Will You Celebrate Pet Wellness Month?

Pet Wellness Month is a reminder of the importance of taking simple, proactive steps to give our pets the long, healthy, and happy lives they deserve. Take the time this October to focus on your pet's wellness and enjoy the benefits of a healthier, happier best friend!

From creating a healthy home environment to incorporating herbal tinctures and healthier treats, Best Natural Pets is here to help you pamper your pet and support their overall health.