For many people pets are a part of the family. Owning a pet is a rewarding experience, but also an important responsibility. Fortunately, there are preventative measures that can be taken to help keep pets healthy.

Just like their human counterparts, pets are susceptible to bacteria and viruses both within and outside the home. There are some highly contagious and dangerous illnesses like parvovirus, canine influenza, rabies and adenovirus that pet owners should be aware of.

This checklist from veterinarian and author Dr. Jessica Vogelsang will give pet owners the peace of mind they need to take care of their furry families, whether within the comfort of home or during a vet or kennel visit:  

Vaccinate – All dogs need to be vaccinated for parvo, distemper, rabies and adenovirus. Cats should be vaccinated for panleukopenia, calicivirus, feline herpes virus type I and rabies. Your veterinarian is the best guide in determining the timing of vaccinations for dogs, cats and other pets. 

Discover – Before fighting germs at home, you must first identify where those germs are living. Make a list of every place and every object your pet has been or touched. Be sure to think like a detective, too. If your canine counterpart enjoys drinking from the porcelain throne, be sure to add that to your list of culprits.

Disinfect – To disinfect hard, nonporous surfaces and accessories like crates and toys, use Clorox Regular-Bleach on a regular basis. You can use a solution of one-half cup of bleach in one gallon of water. To eliminate the risk of infection from dangerous bacteria and diseases such as parvo, soak the items in the solution for 10 minutes, then rinse and air dry.

Be informed – Germs can survive in certain environments for a long time. This is especially true in spaces where pets are constantly coming in and out. Before dropping your beloved at the vet or a kennel, don’t be afraid to ask what measures they are taking to prevent the spread of germs.  

Make it routine – It’s important to always keep your pet’s health in check – from basic teeth cleanings that eliminate germs living in their mouth to monthly heartworm prevention medication to keep their hearts healthy. 

“As a veterinarian, I know keeping pets happy and healthy is very important,” Vogelsang said. “Fortunately using Clorox Regular-Bleach can help prevent the spread of germs and viruses like parvo within both animal shelters and hospitals, as well as within your own home.”

To find more simple tips for keeping your pets safe, visit Clorox.com.

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