It’s a new year, and that means setting new goals and resolutions for the next 12 months. While you might be focused on resolutions that help better your life, your pet could benefit from some New Year’s resolutions, too!
Here are eight New Year’s resolutions for pet owners (and their pets).
Schedule an annual exam. This goes for you and your pet. Preventive checkups can identify and treat health concerns before they become big problems. Just like their human owners, pets can suffer from conditions including heart disease, diabetes and arthritis. Give your furry friend the best shot at a long, healthy life by keeping up with routine exams with your vet.
Eat healthier. If you’re like many Americans, you’re probably trying to eat a little better in the new year. While your pet may not need a strict gluten-free diet, take a look at the nutrients in your pet’s food to be sure they’re getting all the essentials based on weight, age and health conditions. Measure your pet’s food accurately to prevent overeating. Read the instructions on the food bag to know just how much your pet should eat each day.
Lose weight. You might be surprised to learn that nearly more than half of all dogs and cats are overweight, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. As is true for people, excess weight can cause serious health problems for your pet. Making diet adjustments and getting plenty of exercise is key in helping your pet maintain a healthy weight.
Get more exercise. Why not include your pet in your resolution to move more in 2021? Resolve to take more walks/jogs with your pet. A game of fetch can be beneficial not only in giving your dog some much needed exercise, but it may also help prevent destructive behaviors and anxiety.
Socialize your pet. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in isolation for all of us. While there are still precautions to be made, plan some time for your dog to get in some positive socialization in a controlled setting. Take a hike with a friend and fellow dog owner. Visit your neighborhood dog park. Pets who are socialized tend to be more comfortable in a variety of situations, though some pets simply prefer to spend time alone. Pay attention to how your pet responds to the socialization and watch for signs of anxiety or stress.
Clean up your pet’s environment. Take some time to wash your dog’s bed, collar and food bowls. Clear out old, well-used toys and replace them with new ones. Use allergen-free detergent to wash your dog’s bed, and be sure food and water bowls are getting cleaned a few times each week. A clean environment helps reduce transmission of bacteria and viruses for people and pets alike.
Invest time into training. A well-trained dog is more obedient, more responsive and happier. This means your pet will be easier to manage in a potentially dangerous situation. And, ultimately, spending time training your pet results in a closer bond between you and your four-legged friend.
Groom your pet. A good wash and brush helps remove excess fur from your dog’s coat, which means you’ll find less pet hair around your house. Washing and brushing your pet regularly also helps distribute oils from the skin to the fur so your dog’s coat will be healthy and shiny. Most pets enjoy being groomed and it can be another bonding experience for you and your dog. Prefer not to use your own bathtub or shower? The Evolution Dog Wash machine makes bathing your pet a breeze. Click here to find a dog wash near you!
Whatever your New Year’s Resolution may be, we wish you and your pet a happy, healthy year in 2021!
