NATIONWIDE — Pets provide unconditional love to their companions. 

In return, it’s important to ensure they live happy and healthy lives by providing the best care possible.  

This means that in addition to providing food, treats and toys, pets receive daily care for their eyes, ears and overall health.

With a desire to bring a dog into his family’s lives, Albert, a Bausch + Lomb employee, rescued a terrier mix named Watson. However, it soon became apparent Watson needed some extra love and care to help protect his eyes and ears from irritation and excess buildup. 

When finding a remedy proved difficult, Albert worked with veterinarians to develop Project Watson Health Care for Dogs, a comprehensive line of quality products targeting these specific areas.

To help ensure your furry member of the family has the best head-to-tail health possible, consider these tips.

Schedule regular vet visits

Routine wellness checks are an essential part of your pet’s care. Annual screenings, even if your dog seems healthy, allow your veterinarian to provide vaccines to combat disease and uncover any health issues that might have otherwise gone undiagnosed until symptoms advanced.

Watch your pet’s diet

Feeding your pet a proper diet based on his or her breed, age, size and lifestyle plays a big role in overall health. 

A balanced diet that includes high-quality food can lead to a shiny coat, healthy skin and bright eyes. It could also help strengthen your pet’s immune system, maintain intestinal health, increase mental acuity, regulate weight, keep muscles and joints healthy and more.

Support clean ears and eyes

Often overlooked, the eyes and ears are vital areas to the overall health and wellness of your pet. 

To help keep these areas free of any buildup of bacteria that could cause irritation, consider an option such as the line of Project Watson Health Care Products for Dogs. It offers an eye wash, eyelid wipe, ear wash, ear wipe and supplements made using high-quality and naturally inspired ingredients.

Excessive blinking or pawing at the eyes can be signs of buildup, irritation or infection. Dirt and debris trapped around the eyes can also clump in fur, leading to skin irritation and infections while excessive tear production can lead to fur staining, which can develop an unpleasant odor. Eye wipes can be used daily to relieve staining and remove excess buildup. Washing your dog’s ears may help reduce dirt, debris and wax buildup; help prevent itching; and reduce the chance of infection while keeping ears smelling fresh.

Create an exercise routine

Walks, games in the backyard and social time with other pets can help keep your furry friend in good physical condition. While different breeds and species often have different needs, adequate activity can provide benefits beyond the physical. The benefits include reducing boredom, which can potentially lead to anxiety or destructive behaviors.

Prevent pests

In addition to regular vaccinations, ensure your pet is up to date on parasite prevention. This includes fleas, ticks, mites, heartworm and more—all of which can cause reactions ranging from mild to severe (or even fatal in some cases of heartworm or Lyme disease).

Look for pests and skin abnormalities when grooming your pet, and contact your vet if your pet excessively scratches, chews or licks his or her fur or ears, or persistently shakes his or her head.

For more solutions to keep your four-legged friend happy and healthy, speak with your veterinarian or visit www.tryprojectwatson.com.