Dogs make our lives better. They make us laugh, comfort us when we are sad and provide a lifetime of love and companionship.

But caring for dogs is a huge responsibility. We know happy pets make happy people, so here’s a guide to help you keep your best mate healthy for life.

If you are worried about your dog, reach out to RSPCA Victoria today.

Give your dog ‘their best shot’ at a long and healthy life by having them vaccinated. Vaccinating your dog helps protect them from preventable illness and disease like Parvovirus. In the past 12 months, veterinary clinics across Mildura have reported an increase in cases of Parvovirus in dogs. Parvovirus is a highly contagious disease that spreads through direct contact with other dogs or indirectly through faeces. Signs of Parvovirus include severe vomiting, diarrhoea, fever and weakness. Sadly, many of the Parvovirus cases in the past year have resulted in the dog being too unwell to survive.

Read more about Parvovirus and how you can protect your pet!

We recommend microchipping and desexing your dog to help them live a happy and healthy life.

Desexed animals are less likely to suffer from certain cancers, diseases and illnesses, are less likely to roam and can be calmer and happier. Desexing also reduces the number of unwanted litters and homeless animals in your community.

There are many myths surrounding desexing which simply are not true. There are no health benefits associated with allowing your pet to have a litter before desexing. Desexing will not negatively alter your pets’ personality, in fact it could have a positive impact on your pet’s behaviour.

It’s also important to ensure your pet is microchipped so if they do become lost, you are far more likely to be reunited with them. It’s also important to make sure your personal details are up to date with the applicable microchip registry.

Dogs require a clean, comfortable environment to live and sleep in. If your dog has access to outdoors, ensure your yard is escape-proof and includes sheltered areas to protect them from the weather.

If it is not possible to allow a dog to sleep indoors, a weatherproof kennel should be provided. Kennels should be warm, dry, sheltered from wind and regularly cleaned.

Caring for dogs isn’t just about veterinary care and good food. Dogs need regular exercise, at least once a day, to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. This will help prevent unwanted behaviours such as digging and destroying household items, or separation anxiety.

You may also wish to hide some food in toys to keep your dog and entertained.

Check out some fun ways to banish boredom for your dog and help build your bond with them. 

Regular grooming removes dust, dead skin, loose hairs, grass seeds, and tangles, and is essential for your dog’s overall health. It also helps to prevent matting and overgrown nails, both of which can be very painful for your dog.

Book your dog into a groomer for regular appointments, or check out some simple DIY grooming tips to make sure your dog stays comfortable.

Your dog will require annual visits to the vet for vaccinations, boosters and general health checks. This is important for your dog’s wellbeing and will help ensure they live a long and happy life.