Prioritizing Pet Wellness: Top Tips for a Happy and Healthy Year Ahead
With the arrival of spring, the focus often shifts towards health and well-being, and this extends naturally to our beloved pets as well. The trend of pet wellness is continually increasing, prompting many owners to explore more holistic approaches to their pet’s care. Here are some crucial tips from Robin Hargreaves, Senior Veterinary Advisor at Agria, an award-winning pet insurer, on leveraging the latest wellness trends for a happier and healthier pet.
Pet Supplements
Pet supplements are becoming increasingly important in the diets of our pets. The pet supplement industry is projected to reach $1.05 billion by 2027*, as owners recognize the advantages of naturally managing and preventing minor health problems at home. Avoiding unnecessary medications can not only save money but also prevent potential side effects.
Robin recommends: “Always consult your vet before introducing supplements to your pet’s diet. As a general rule, when introducing pet supplements such as probiotics, allergy relief, vitamins, and joint care remedies, choose products formulated specifically for animals. Supplements can sometimes delay the onset of a disease, but are often used to complement veterinary treatments, potentially allowing for effective lower dosages.”
Pet Technology
Technology has become a major component in our lives, and pet owners are no exception. Observational cameras, nutrition-tracking apps, and automatic feeders, among other tools, are becoming more common as ways to improve our homes and routines for our pets. When used correctly, pet technology can enhance animal well-being and simplify pet care. Nevertheless, technology should never replace the necessary care your pet requires to thrive. Social interaction, entertainment, and stimulation are just as essential to pets as they are to humans. When you have to be away, utilize a trusted pet sitter or reputable kennels to provide your pet with the love and attention they deserve. Sometimes, there’s nothing better than a cuddle.
Raw and Natural Pet Foods
Once any pet food brand from the supermarket shelves would do, but nowadays, owners are increasingly concerned about the quality of the ingredients in their pet’s diet. Consequently, the pet food market has diversified significantly. Sales of fresh, raw, and freeze-dried options are outpacing the growth of traditional wet food and kibble’s sales**. These modern food formats can provide healthier, more nutritious alternatives, often being easier to store and mess-free.
Robin recommends: “No matter what food you choose, select a formulation that has all the necessary nutrients your pet needs to sustain their general health and life stage. Some diets will be specifically formulated to support certain health conditions; always consult your vet before using one of these to ensure it is appropriate for your particular pet. Puppy or kitten-specific formulas, for example, include extra nutrients that young pets need to grow healthily. Formulas for older dogs are an example of diets that support issues like joint’s health.”
Environmentally-Friendly Pet Products
As we analyze our lifestyles to find ways to live more sustainably, our pet care choices may get scrutinized. From toys and accessories free of plastic to biodegradable cat litter or poop bags, a range of environmentally friendly options are now available to pet owners. This allows them to maintain their pet’s well-being without harming the earth.
Robin recommends: “Making environmentally-conscious decisions about your pet’s care can encompass so much. From long-lasting toys to natural food bowls, sustainable care can also include aspects you may not have considered, including insurance. Agria Pet Insurance UK is proud to be the country’s first carbon-positive pet insurer, with a philosophy of caring for the world we share with our pets. Their Carbon Pawprint Calculator helps owners understand the environmental impact of their pet’s lifestyle — across a huge range of elements, including food, dog walks, and pet sitters — to help identify areas to leave a lighter pawprint.”
Lifetime Pet Insurance
As wellness leads this year’s pet trends, owners are prioritizing long-term care for their animals by investing in pet insurance. The global pet insurance industry hit $9.4 billion in 2022, and it’s expected to continue growing annually at a rate of 17.04% until 2030***. The industry is growing and also evolving to cover more treatments than ever before, reflecting our desire to provide our pets with the same quality and security we seek for our own healthcare.
Pet insurance is not a one-size-fits-all product. Agria offers bespoke, specialized options, tailored to the unique needs of your furry friend. Agria Pet Insurance is a Which? Best Buy for their Lifetime, Lifetime Plus, and Lifetime Premium dog insurance and their Lifetime, Lifetime Plus, Lifetime Premium, Home, and Home Plus cat insurance products. Lifetime pet insurance is the most comprehensive cover for pets because vet fees cover refreshes each year the policy is renewed — providing coverage year after year for long-term conditions, so you can be sure your best friend is in safe hands.
Learn more about Agria’s Lifetime cover.
Find out more about Agria’s commitment to going above and beyond to promote animal welfare: https://www.agriapet.co.uk/pet-welfare-hub/
*** https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/pet-insurance-market
