AND FINALLY top tips to keep your pet healthy 1 Take your dog or cat to the vet at least once a year to help detect possible problems and to vaccinate against potentially deadly diseases. With smaller animals, buy or borrow a book about the species and learn its common issues. 2 3 4 Find out from the start what's a healthy weight for your pet and feed accordingly with a nutritious diet. An overweight animal is neither fit nor happy. Protect your pet from parasites such as fleas, ticks and worms by treating with relevant products - pet shop owners can usually advise. Exercise your pet - dogs need a walk come rain or shine for both physical and mental wellbeing. Cats require playthings, while guinea pigs and rabbits need a run. 5 WORDS: PATRICIA PETT, IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK Love your pet and talk to them. They will thrive on attention. www.athomemagazine.co.uk NOVEMBER 2016 | 181http://www.athomemagazine.co.uk