Hearthstone Animal Clinic
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    Pet Resource CenterWellness Guide

    Wellness, one day at a time

    The small daily habits do most of the work in keeping a pet healthy. Here is what I watch for and what I ask owners to do at home between visits.

    Request an Appointment(281) 859-9244

    The everyday building blocks

    Daily Exercise

    How much movement a pet needs depends on age, breed, and overall health.

    • Dogs typically need 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise daily
    • Cats benefit from 15 to 20 minutes of active play sessions
    • Puppies and kittens need shorter, more frequent play periods
    • Senior pets do better with gentle, low-impact activities
    • Check with your vet before starting a new exercise routine

    Signs of a Healthy Pet

    The everyday indicators that tell you your pet is thriving.

    • Clear, bright eyes without discharge or cloudiness
    • Clean ears with no odor, excess wax, or scratching
    • Healthy appetite and normal eating behavior
    • Regular urination and well-formed bowel movements
    • Shiny coat and healthy skin without excessive scratching
    • Alert, responsive behavior and normal energy levels

    Daily Health Monitoring

    Simple checks that catch small problems before they grow.

    • Check appetite and water consumption
    • Watch energy levels and any behavior changes
    • Look for discharge from eyes, ears, or nose
    • Feel for unusual lumps or bumps while petting
    • Notice changes in gait or mobility
    • Note any changes in bathroom habits

    Senior Pet Care

    What changes when a dog or cat moves into its senior years.

    • Increase vet checkups to twice yearly
    • Monitor for arthritis and joint stiffness
    • Adjust the diet for senior nutritional needs
    • Provide comfortable, supportive bedding
    • Watch for cognitive changes or disorientation
    • Ask about supplements for joints and cognition

    Daily habits that add up

    • Keep feeding and exercise on a consistent daily routine
    • Brush your pet regularly for coat health and bonding
    • Keep fresh water available at all times
    • Keep the home calm and low-stress
    • Schedule regular wellness exams
    • Check weight and body condition monthly

    Common questions

    How much exercise does my dog need each day?
    Most dogs do well with 30 minutes to 2 hours a day, but it really depends on age, breed, and health. A young sporting breed needs far more than a senior small-breed dog. Cats do best with a couple of short, active play sessions. If your pet is older or has a health issue, check with me before ramping up a new routine.
    What daily signs tell me my pet is healthy?
    Bright clear eyes, clean ears with no odor, a steady appetite, normal bathroom habits, a shiny coat, and their usual energy level. A quick daily once-over while you pet them lets you catch changes like new lumps, limping, or discharge early, which is when things are easiest to treat.
    When does my pet count as a senior?
    For most dogs and cats that is around age 7, though large-breed dogs age faster and get there sooner. Once a pet is a senior I recommend twice-yearly exams, closer attention to joints and mobility, and a diet suited to their stage, since a lot can change in six months at that age.
    Related care at Hearthstone
    Wellness examsSenior pet bloodworkPreventive care

    Want a wellness plan? Let's build one together.

    Every pet is a little different. Book a wellness visit and we'll set up a routine that fits your pet's age, breed, and health.

    Request an Appointment(281) 859-9244