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⏰ The Silent Health Crisis in Our Dogs That Most Pet Parents Miss

What I’ve learned about protecting Maxine’s health before problems start

Author

Bryan Reisberg
February 12, 2026

Why Preventative Care Is Becoming the Standard for Dogs

I need to say this plainly because it matters to me. We cannot afford to wait until our dogs are limping, scratching nonstop, or clearly uncomfortable before we act. The veterinary world has shifted hard toward proactive and preventative care for a reason. Organizations like the American Animal Hospital Association and the American Veterinary Medical Association emphasize routine wellness exams and early screening to catch joint issues, skin disease, and metabolic changes before they spiral into chronic problems. Preventive care is not a luxury. It is now considered foundational to modern pet health. This is why we launched the Little Chonk Health Dept. We spent 2 years working tirelessly on our hip & joint supplement because that’s what our pets deserve.

One of the biggest mindset shifts happening right now is around joint health. Historically, we only talked about mobility once arthritis was obvious. But research and industry trends show that pet parents and veterinarians are increasingly supporting joints earlier in life to preserve cartilage, connective tissue, and comfort long term. Proactive joint support is becoming part of daily wellness routines, not just senior care. That philosophy is exactly why we created our hip & joint formula. Not as a reaction to pain, but as a way to protect mobility before decline sets in.

Skin and allergies are another area where waiting can make things worse. Allergic skin disease is one of the top reasons dogs visit the vet. Updated clinical guidance from AAHA highlights early diagnosis, consistent monitoring, and multimodal management to reduce flare frequency and severity. Supporting the skin barrier with proper nutrition, omega 3 fatty acids, and targeted supplementation can reduce inflammation and strengthen resilience over time. The goal is fewer flare ups, less itching, and a better quality of life before problems become chronic.

Here is the part that feels urgent to me. Our dogs age far faster than we do. Small daily decisions compound quickly across their lifespan. The science supports earlier intervention, smarter nutrition, and consistent preventative habits. We are not just extending years anymore. We are protecting vitality within those years. That belief drives everything I share and everything we build. If we truly love our dogs, proactive care is no longer optional. It is the new standard.

Today’s Last Laugh:

Balto’s been real quiet since this dropped…

@mrsdjgrant

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