Lakewood veterinarian explains why certain pet foods are sold by prescription

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Dr. Arambulo Jose at Bloomfield Animal Hospital explains happiest and healthiest life for your dog or cat
As a pet parent, your cat or dog likely is a part of the family. Much like any other member of your family, you want to ensure the happiest and healthiest life for your dog or cat. Developing a good relationship with your veterinarian can help ensure that your pet stays healthy. Not only does a vet help when your pet is ill or injured, proper checkups and preventative measures such as prescription pet food is important for your pet. Dr. Jose Arambulo of Bloomfield Animal Hospital works with pets and their families in the Lakewood, CA area. He offers a full suite of services including dentistry, grooming, and emergency visits. He also offers advanced medical treatment and diagnostic testing such as stem cell research, laser therapy, and digital x-rays. However, Dr. Arambulo knows that the best way to keep your pet healthy is to prevent medical issues. That's why he offers a wide array of flea and tick treatments, heartworm prevention, vitamins, supplements, and prescription pet food.

The importance of nutrition for your pet

While many pets will eat anything you feed them, a healthy diet is as important for your pet as it is for the humans in your family. Your pet needs a balance of water, protein, carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins. Feeding pets from your own plate can be harmful to their health, as it's not likely to have the proper nutrition. Table foods can also lead to weight gain, can cause your pet to become a picky eater, and can be dangerous if your pet gets something toxic to his or her system.

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Foods that are prepared specifically for your pet are made with proper ingredients for animals; however, it's important to know that not all pet foods are made to the same standards.

Choosing the right food for your pet

Dr. Arambulo Jose at Bloomfield Animal Hospital explains Choosing the right food for your pet When it's time to choose pet food, it's important to think of age, body condition, breed, and even medical conditions.
  • Species: Food for dogs and cats do not have the same nutritional requirements; therefore, it's important to choose a food that's designed for your cat or dog.
  • Age/Life stage: Puppies and kittens should be fed a developing blend of food until they reach approximately 90 percent of its adult size, typically around 10 months of age for cats and 12 months of age for dogs. At this age, you can switch to an adult formula or one that Is for all life stages. However, it's important to monitor your pet's weight throughout life. As they age, most pets will begin to decrease their activity level which can lead to weight gain.
  • Breed: Particularly in the case of dogs, your pet's breed can have a significant impact on its health. Large breeds such as Labradors, Retrievers, and Rottweilers have different nutritional needs than small breeds. Foods that are created for large breeds regulate calories and boost calcium which helps prevent conditions such as hip dysplasia.
  • Weight control: Keeping your pet's weight in check is critical to health. While he or she doesn't have to worry about fitting into a favorite pair of jeans, too much weight can cause damage to joints organs or can lead to diabetes.
  • Medical conditions: Some pets have allergies or intolerance to specific ingredients, while others have kidney disease, gastrointestinal conditions, joint disease, weight issues, or are aging. These issues can be managed with pet food that is specially formulated to address your pet's medical needs.
Dr. Arambulo Jose at Bloomfield Animal Hospital explains giving your pet the best nutrition and ingredients

The best food for your pet

With so many options it's easy to feel overwhelmed when you think about your pet's choices. That's why Dr. Arambulo offers prescription foods created by trusted brands such as Hill's, Purina and Royal Canin that can be picked up in the office or delivered to your home. By working with your vet to choose the right foods, you can be sure that you're giving your pet the best nutrition and ingredients so that he or she lives a full and happy life. For more information about preventative care or treatment for medical conditions, contact Bloomfield Animal Hospital. Our team is committed to providing expert and gentle care to make both you and your furry friend feel at ease.
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Bloomfield Animal Hospital is a trusted name in pets’ preventive, medical, surgical, and emergency care in Lakewood, CA. With a 30-year history as a family-owned pet clinic, it’s reputed for providing modern services in a warm, friendly environment. It’s one of the few veterinary hospitals to be AAHA-accredited.

Dr. Jose Arambulo, owner and chief veterinarian is experienced in treating eye, ear, and skin disorders and is especially interested in internal medicine, dentistry and soft tissue surgery. The hospital also utilizes the services of board-certified veterinarians, Dr. Ann Reed – Radiologist, and Dr. Fred Brewer – Cardiologist.