Owning a dog in Long Island or Brooklyn can be incredibly rewarding. Your dog has plenty of opportunities to make friends at parks, visit well-maintained outdoor spaces, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the big city. They also have access to many dog-friendly public events and spaces, like bars, restaurants, festivals and more. And of course, city dwellers have access to top-tier pet care services, like Dan’s Pet Care.
However, some urban dog owners worry that their lifestyle will shorten their pet’s lifespan. Ultimately, there’s no clear answer to the question of whether living in the city will harm your dog’s well-being. But there are plenty of challenges and hazards that come with city living. If you don’t mitigate these risks, your dog could end up living a shorter and less healthy life than they otherwise would. Let’s look at a few of these challenges, and at some ways you can lessen their impact on your dog’s health.
Exposure to airborne particles
Dogs in the city do tend to be exposed to a higher concentration of pollutants and allergens, which can lead to more allergic reactions than country dogs typically have. City dog’s exposure to urban airborne particles can also increase their risk of eye and ear infections and respiratory problems.
Don’t panic – there are steps you can take to reduce your dog’s exposure to harmful airborne matter. Let’s consider just a few of the top strategies:
Provide good ventilation in your home, allowing household fumes and scents to escape
Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter while indoors
Wipe down your dog’s face, paws and belly after going outside to reduce the risk of skin irritation
Purchase a mask to protect your dog from known outdoor pollutants
Keep your dog indoors on days with high pollen counts or other adverse conditions
Stressors of city living
The city is a noisy place. It’s full of other people and pets, traffic sounds, heavy machinery and more. City sidewalks are full of pedestrians, bicycles, and other dogs. Noise pollution can be an especially big challenge for city dogs. Honking car horns, loud voices, and other city sounds can be overstimulating.
Stress is unhealthy for dogs, just as it is for people, and can cause a wide range of health problems. Five of the most common include:
GI problems
Skin conditions
Breathing trouble
Heart trouble
A shorter lifespan
But city dogs aren’t doomed to living stressful lives. Talk to your veterinarian about ways to address your dog’s stressors. Lifestyle changes, medication, and socialization can help your pet stay calm. Vets often recommend walking around the city streets with new puppies to help them adjust. Even if they haven’t had all their shots yet, you can carry your puppy to help them get used to all the city noises and movements. Dan’s Pet Care also provides training that can help your dog feel more confident.
Exposure to other dogs
City dogs are more likely than rural dogs to have diverse social interactions. These can be a valuable way for your dog to make friends, become socialized, and enjoy mental stimulation. However, city dogs are also at a higher risk of being bitten or injured in a dog fight, and they can easily contract diseases or parasites from other dogs.
Again, you’ve got options to mitigate these risks. Follow your veterinarian’s advice about preventatives and vaccines. When choosing a pet care service, go with a reputable company like Dan’s Pet Care that follows strict health and safety standards. Finally, keep a close eye on your dog when you’re out and about, and make sure your dog is properly socialized and trained before visiting a public space.
Access to quality medical care
One advantage of city living for dogs is the increased access to great medical care. AMC, a globally-renowned animal hospital, is located in New York City and available for specialized and emergency care. New York dog owners can also visit Blue Pearl, a leading animal hospital organization that provides world-class care when you need it.
Keep in mind that visiting the vet’s office only in emergencies is not a good idea. You should establish a long-term relationship with a medical clinic you trust, so that your dog can receive personalized care when they need it most. For healthy dogs, a yearly vet visit is vital.
Obesity risks
Obesity is one of the biggest health crises facing pets today, and city dogs can be at increased risk. Weighing your dog regularly at vet visits can help you spot any increases and act accordingly. Of course, limiting your dog’s calorie intake and providing adequate exercise are the best ways to prevent obesity. Dan’s Pet Care can help your dog get the exercise they need by providing walks or doggy daycare services that include exercise programs.
Helping your dog thrive in Long Island or Brooklyn
At Dan’s Pet Care, our mission is to help New York dogs live long, happy and healthy lives. We offer comprehensive services that meet all of your dog’s needs. As Long Island’s favorite pet care service, we’re committed to upholding the highest standards to keep your dog safe. Call us today at (516) 551-1613, and let’s get started!
