Covering The Basics Of Pet Heart Health, How Heart Disease Affects Pets, And How To Improve Your Pet’s Heart Health In Honor Of American Heart Month

Heart health is one of the most important, yet commonly overlooked aspects of our overall health. The heart is one of the most complex and important organs in the body next to the brain. Heart health is so important that the entire month of February is observed as American Heart Month. 

This month-long holiday aims to educate people about the importance of heart health and how to improve your overall heart health. However, it’s also important to consider your pet’s heart health too. In honor of American Heart Month, this article will take an in-depth look into pet heart health and discuss the best ways to manage your pet’s heart health. 

Heart disease illustration
Heart disease illustration

Heart Disease Explained

Heart disease is a very serious, life-threatening condition that affects millions of people and pets. According to the C.D.C. (Center for Disease Control), the term heart disease refers to several different types of heart conditions. The most common type of heart disease in the U.S. is C.A.D. (Coronary artery disease). C.A.D. directly affects the blood flow of the heart and can ultimately lead to a heart attack. 

Every year, 695,000 people die in the U.S. from heart disease according to the New York State Department of Health. This makes heart disease the leading cause of death in America. This is a shockingly high statistic. But, it truly reflects the severity of heart disease in America. 

American Heart Month

American Heart Month was founded in December of 1963 by President Lyndon B. Johnson. President Johnson founded this month-long holiday shortly after he personally experienced a heart attack. After this life threatening experience, he vowed to make a change for all Americans regarding heart health. Thanks to this holiday, there have been numerous advances in the study of overall heart health. 

Additionally, American Heart Month inspires many people and organizations to take their heart health more seriously. This month-long holiday is dedicated to raising awareness about heart health and things people can do to improve it. This includes things like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and healthy lifestyle.

A dog at the veterinarian
A dog at the veterinarian

Pet Heart Health

American Heart Month reminds us all to be more attentive to our heart health. But, it also reminds us to take better care of our pet’s heart health too! Pets are susceptible to similar heart-related complications that people experience. This includes things like heart defects, high blood pressure, and various forms of heart disease. But, there are steps you can take to lower the chances of your pets developing heart disease. 

Heart Disease Prevention In Pets?

Sadly, there is currently no definitive way to prevent heart disease in pets. But, there are some measures you can take to help lower your pets risk of heart disease. One of the best things you can do for your pet’s heart health is to take them to the veterinarian regularly. Most pets should get a checkup at the vet’s once a year or every six months. 

Also, you can help lower your pet’s risk of heart disease by providing them with a healthy lifestyle. More specifically, a nutritional diet. Always be aware of what your pet is eating and avoid giving them unhealthy foods. Additionally, routine exercise will also help improve your pet’s cardiovascular system. Thus, reducing the chances of heart disease. 

Making A Difference In Pet Health

This February, we encourage you to get involved with American Health Month by making the effort to improve both you and your pet’s heart health. For more information on how to improve your heart health, click here. For more information about pet heart health, click here.  

Additionally, you can support this amazing holiday by donating to CVCA Cardiac Care For Pets. They are the leading professionals when it comes to pet cardiac care & research. Click here to go to their website where you can donate and learn more about the incredible work they’ve done to help animals. 

A professional pet sitter
A professional pet sitter

Looking For A Pet Sitter Or Dog Walker?

If you or someone you know is looking for a pet sitter or dog walker, then look no further than My Dog Walker & Pet Sitting. We are fully insured & bonded and have over 10 years of experience working with animals. Click here to check out our wide variety of pet sitting services including in-home pet sitting and routine dog walking.

We currently service the Medford, Medford Lakes, Shamong, and Tabernacle, NJ areas. To become a client, click here or give us a call at 856-217-2781. Be sure to check us out on Facebook and Instagram too! We post new content regularly, so be sure to follow us so you don’t miss out on adorable pictures of our pets.