Nutrition is an important element in a pet’s life. Lack of a nutritious diet can lead to serious health issues and a shorter life span. A balanced diet comes a long way in ensuring the pet grows healthy and strong. Pets have different nutritional needs depending on their age, breed, activity level, underlying conditions, and size.

 

Choosing the right food begins with identifying the pet’s specific needs. This process can be hectic, and this is why nutritional counseling is necessary. Nutritional counseling educates pet owners on what the pet should be fed as well as the importance of maintaining a healthy diet for their pet.

 

Here are ways nutritional counseling helps:

 

Helps the Owner to Know the Right Amount of Food to Give the Pet

Nutritional advice is important. Excessive food consumption can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems. Underfeeding the pet can cause it to become malnourished and weak. As a result, a dietary consultant will advise on the proper amount of food for the pet based on its needs.

 

Helps the Owner to Establish a Routine Feeding Schedule

Pets are unique when it comes to feeding. Some feed all day long, some only a few hours depending on the age, stage of life, breed, type of animal, and activity. Pets that are sick and nursing may require some extra care during this period. Other pets do not like feeding by nature, and this may make them sick. A nutritional counselor will advise on an appropriate routine on when to feed the animal.

 

Helps the Owner to Know the Right Type of Food

Every pet has its own unique dietary needs. Younger animals need food to help them grow strong and healthy. This food is different from what an older pet or even a nursing animal would be fed.

 

There are so many brands on the market, making it hard to know which brand is best for your pet. This is why you need a nutritional counselor. The counselor will do an assessment, then prescribe a diet that will meet the specific pet’s nutritional needs.

 

Helps to Educate the Pet Owner on Some Common Mistakes to Avoid

The internet is full of information that is not always true. You may think you know what is best for your pet, but in reality, you are hurting the pet without realizing it. A dietary advisor examines your pet and provides you with correct recommendations.

 

This may help avoid some serious health problems in the long run. Additionally, some people like to give their pets human food. The nutritional counselor can help you figure out what foods can be good for the pet and which foods can hurt it.

 

Helps to Extend the Animal’s Life Span

A dietary counselor prescribes a diet that is specifically tailored for the pet. This nutritious diet aids in the prevention of a variety of diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. This nutritious diet will also keep your pet from being overweight or malnourished. As a result, your pet’s lifetime will be extended.

 

To learn more about nutritional counseling for pets, contact Lone Oak Animal Clinic in Paducah, Kentucky at (270) 554-0385 to schedule an appointment.