Published on 27th Feb 2026
A Vet's Guide to Everyday Pet Health
Simple, evidence-based habits to keep dogs and cats healthier for longer.
Meet Charlie
I'm Charlie, a practising small-animal vet with over 10 years' experience.
I've seen how small, preventable issues - weight gain, early joint changes, mild tummy upsets - often progress quietly into bigger problems.
Owners aren't careless; they're often unsure what's normal and what can safely be done early at home.
Charlie the Vet exists to change that
We focus on pet wellness, prevention and early action, helping owners feel confident caring for their pets alongside veterinary care.
Pet health doesn't have to be complicated. These are the fundamentals I recommend to owners most often.
Healthy Weight Matters
Excess weight is one of the most common preventable conditions vets see. UK surveys estimate around 50% of dogs and 43% of cats are overweight or obese.
Why it matters
* Increased strain on joints and earlier arthritis
* Higher risk of diabetes, heart and respiratory disease
* Reduced energy, mobility and quality of life
* Shortened lifespan (up to 2.5 years in dogs)
* Measure meals accurately (scales beat scoops)
* Keep treats to <10% of daily calories
* Encourage regular exercise:
Dogs: Steady walks with sniffing time
Cats: multiple short play sessions
* Ask your vet - many practices offer weight clinics
Take-home fact:
A small piece of cheese for a 10kg dog can equal a human
eating a couple of burgers!
Joints & Mobility: Don't Wait for Limping
Osteoarthritis affects around 1 in 4 adult dogs and is often missed, especially in cats. Early signs include stiffness, slowing down, reluctance to jump, reduced play or behaviour changes.
* Keep pets lean
* Gentle, regular exercise, avoiding repetitive ball throwing
* Use vet-strength joint supplements as part of a wider management plan agreed with your vet
* Make simple home adaptations (rugs, steps/ramps, easy-access litter trays)
Nutrition & Gut Health: The Foundation of Everyday Wellness
Good nutrition underpins pet health, affecting digestion, immunity, skin, joints and energy. Digestive upset is a common reason for vet visits, but not all gut signs are simply "a sensitive tummy".
Diarrhoea with blood, vomiting, lethargy, weight loss or signs lasting more than a couple of days always needs veterinary attention.
* Feed a high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet suited to species, life stage and individual needs
* For acute diarrhoea in an otherwise well pet: bland diet, small frequent meals, vet-strength probiotic paste
* For recurring gut issues: speak to a vet, consider a diet trial if advised, and daily gut support containt pre, pro and postbiotics where appropriate.
Knowing your pet's "normal" helps spot problems earlier. Keep an eye on:
* Appetite and thirst
* Energy and sleep
* Toileting habits
* Mobility and willingness to jump/run
* Behaviour and sociability
Routine veterinary care helps prevent avoidable illness and catch issues early
First Aid at Home: Early Action Can Prevent Complications
Emergencies often start small - and what happens in the first few minutes can make a real difference. With the right knowledge and tools, owners can manage minor cuts and grazes at home, and provide vital first aid before reaching the vet.
Why first aid matters
* 1 in 3 owners will face a pet first aid situation
* Over 40% of infected wounds start as small injuries
* Early wound cleaning can reduce infection risk and the need for antibiotics
* Clean wounds early (when safe to do so)
* Use pet-safe antibiotics
* Know how to apply a bandage and control bleeding
* Lean the basics of choking management and CPR
* Keep a pet first aid kit at home and ideally in the car
Every Charlie the Vet product includes free access to a mini pet first aid course.
A full course is also available for those wanting more in-depth training. For anything more than a superficial cut or graze always seek veterinary advice.
Skin, Coat & Ears: Early Care Matters
Skin and ear problems are common. Regular grooming and simple checks can help spot issues early.
* Groom regularly to check for lumps, inflamed skin or parasites
* Keep nails trimmed and fur around eyes short
* Rinse feet after muddy or salty walks
* Clean ears when needed, especially in swimmers or infection-prone pets
* Support skin health with vet-strength omega-3s (EPA & DHA) and, in some cases daily probiotic support
Persistent itching, sore ears or rapidly changing lumps should be checked by a vet
Dental Care: An Often Overlooked Essential
By age three, 70% of cats and up to 80% of dogs show signs of dental disease.
* Brush teeth regularly
* Use vet-recommended dental products
* See a vet for bad breath, red gums, drooling or reluctance to eat
Mental Wellbeing, Anxiety & Cognitive Ageing
Mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health, particularly as pets age.
* Maintain routine and predictability
* Provide mental stimulation through play, training and puzzle feeders
* Support brain health with vet-strength omega-3s (EPA & DHA)
* Manage anxiety triggers (eg fireworks or separation) using calm spaces, training and where appropriate, calm-support porducts. Seek veterinary help if significant.
This guide supports prevention and early care at home. If owners are ever concerned about their pet's health or wellbeing, they should always seek veterinary advice.
Published on 27th Feb 2026