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What a relief to move into a brand new year! As at the start of any new year, January is a great time to set new goals and aspirations for the upcoming year. As us humans make resolutions like vowing to finally start using that juicer collecting dust in the cupboard, or binge-watching Netflix’s Tidying Up with Marie Kondo in an attempt to get organizational inspiration, we should also consider making resolutions for our pets! From helping them to shed a few pounds to teaching them new things, here are some excellent options for new year's resolutions for your pet!

Battling the Bulge: One of the most common resolutions is to shed those pounds packed on around the holidays. Our pets are no exception. Around this time of year, we commonly see pets who have put on a little extra padding. While a few pounds here and there might not seem like much to us, even a little but can be detrimental to the health of our pets. If your pet is looking a little portlier these days, try keeping track of everything that is consumed and the length and duration of walks and exercise. It might seem slightly obsessive, but if you have a smartphone in your pocket, it can be quite easy! Be sure to accurately measure all meals and account for every treat given. High energy play and fun new walking routes can also help with a slim down and help them feel better (and extend their life!)

More Adventures and Experiences: Who doesn’t want to take an adventure?! Vow this year to give your pet their most exciting year yet by giving them new experiences! This could be as simple as a new area for your walk, or more trips together to the coffee shop. It can also be as extravagant as a road trip or taking them to see the ocean for the first time. Whatever you plan to do to help your pet have an adventure this year, they will certainly appreciate the quality time with their best pal.

Finally Ending that Bad Behavior: This is your year”the year you finally get through to Fluffy that clawing at the carpet is not okay! Research the behavior your pet is displaying and find techniques and tips on how to help banish it. If the problem persists, consider hiring a behavioralist or a trainer to help give you the tools and techniques needed to help Fluffy and Fido give up those bad habits!

Learn Pet CPR: You never know when you might need it until you need it. Take some time this year to improve who you are as an owner by learning pet CPR. There are plenty of YouTube videos out there where you can learn absolutely free! If you want to take it a step further, learn more about all the items in your pet first aid kit and how to use them!

Cleaning Out the Old Supplies: Remember those treats that gave your dog the worst smelling gas? What about that adorable toy shaped like a squid that you spent $15 on and your dog shows zero interest in (Yes, that is an anecdote from my reality!) It’s time to round up all the things you don’t need and get rid of them. Dig though the toy box, check under the couch”get rid of any toys, beds, blankets, towels, treats, bones, and other supplies that you don’t need anymore. Before a trip to the garbage can, check around and see if there are any shelters or rescues that will take gently used items or food and treat donations.

Make Health a Priority: Make your appointment and stick with it! There is a ton going on right now and it can be hard to keep track of all the things you need to do throughout the day. No one wants to wrangle their cat into their carrier and hear them howl all the way to our office - but sometimes we must do what is best for our pets. Making your pet’s health a priority will help to ensure fewer emergency visits to our office and can help your pet live a longer and happier life! Perhaps this is the year you have your dog’s teeth cleaned or you get the blood work done for your cat that you had to put off last year.

Prepare for the Unexpected: Make a plan, write it down, and make sure you and your pet are ready for the unexpected. A “go bag” should contain at least 5 days of food, water, and medications. Treats, a toy, waste bags, your pet’s first aid kit, vet records, a leash, collar, and tags are also items that should be included. If your pet has a microchip, make sure the information is up to date and complete. If your pet doesn’t have a microchip, maybe this year is the year you get one!

Whatever the resolutions you choose for your pet, make ones that benefit you both and resolve to spend more mornings cuddling on the couch, more afternoons playing in the park, and more time strengthening the bond you share with your companion. If you need to schedule your annual wellness exam, give us a call today!