By: Dr. Veja Tillman, DVM | Owner of Just 4 Pets Veterinary Wellness Center
May is Responsible Pet Guardian Month—a time to celebrate the bond we share with our furry companions and commit to giving them the best care possible.
At Just 4 Pets Wellness Center, we believe responsible pet guardianship means going beyond food and shelter—it’s about holistic care, proactive wellness, and planning for the unexpected.
Here are 6 simple ways to be the best guardian your pet could ask for:
1. Feed a Healthy Diet
Feeding a healthy diet is one of the most important things you can do. Your pet’s food should be nutritionally balanced and complete, with the right mix of essential vitamins and minerals. A good diet boosts immune function, energy, and longevity.
2. Protect Your Pets from Parasites
Routine deworming, heartworm prevention, and flea and tick control are crucial for maintaining your pet’s health. Parasites not only cause discomfort but can lead to serious illness if untreated.
3. Tend to Your Pet’s Emotional Needs
A responsible guardian understands that pets have emotional lives too. Create a supportive, stimulating environment. Establish routines. Provide affection. Spend quality time every day playing, walking, or simply being present.
This promotes emotional well-being, reduces anxiety, and strengthens the bond between you and your pet.
4. Provide Regular, Breed-Appropriate Exercise
Exercise supports a healthy weight, improves digestion, reduces behavioral issues, and helps detox the body. It also releases feel-good hormones that promote calmness and joy—just like in humans.
Tailor the activity to your pet’s age, breed, and energy level. Even a daily walk or a few minutes of fetch can make a big difference.
5. Find a Great Veterinarian
Choose a veterinarian who shares your values and offers high-quality care. Ask about vaccination protocols, diagnostic options, and alternative treatments if you’re interested. Building a strong, long-term relationship with a trusted vet is key to your pet’s well-being.
6. Include Your Pet in Your Will
We all expect to outlive our pets, but life is unpredictable. If something happens to you, would your pet be protected?
Include your pets in your will. Identify at least two trusted people who would care for them and consider setting aside a small emergency fund to support their future needs. It’s a final act of love that ensures they’ll be cared for no matter what.
About Dr. Veja Tillman, DVM
Dr. Tillman is a 2002 graduate of Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine. Her practice focuses on wellness, preventative care, and education. She is the owner of Just 4 Pets Wellness Center in Fort Myers, Florida, where she and her team are dedicated to raising the standard of care for all pets.
📍 8911 Daniels Parkway, Suite 7, Fort Myers, FL 33912
📞 239-270-5721
🌐 www.Just4PetsFL.vet
Correction Notice
In past issues, we mistakenly listed Dr. Veja Tillman’s credentials as “DMV” instead of “DVM.” Our sincerest apologies to Dr. Tillman and to the veterinary community. We greatly appreciate the work veterinarians do and are committed to maintaining accuracy and respect in all our reporting.
