Creating New Year's resolutions can help strengthen the bond between you and your pet and improve their health and happiness. Keep reading to learn some of our suggestions to make 2023 the best year ever for you and your pet!
Teach Your Pet a New Trick
Teach your pet a new trick each day for a few minutes. Before you know it, you'll be showing off your cat high-fiving or your dog playing dead. The act of teaching your pet a trick is both mentally stimulating and fun, strengthening the bond between you and your pet.
Lose Weight
It's likely that we all put on a few extra pounds over the holidays, but an extra kilo on a cat or a dog is equivalent to tens of extra pounds on an individual. Ensuring your pet is a healthy weight helps to reduce the strain on their joints and can help to extend their life span by reducing their risk of developing weight-related health concerns.
Exercise More
Make it a resolution in 2023 to explore the great outdoors with your pet more often. Go on hikes, visit the beach or take your cat out on a leash or in a pram. Getting out and about can help you both to shift those extra kilos and adequate exercise helps to prevent boredom.
Review Your Pet's Diet
Reviewing your pet's diet at the start of the new year is a great way to make sure it is still appropriate. The aging process of our pets is faster than that of humans, so it may be time to switch to a senior food as your pet slows down. Consider if adding certain supplements to their diet like joint support or fish oil may benefit. Make the switch to healthier treats and cut back on feeding them from the table.
Not sure what's fruits and vegetables are safe to feed your dog? Check out our article for top healthy treat options here.
Schedule Regular Vet Visits
Taking your pet to the vet regularly ensures his or her health and can help catch diseases early.
Make Your Next Vet Trip Easier
Check Their Details Are Up To Date
When was the last time you checked your pet's registration or microchip details? In case of separation, now is a good time to verify your address and phone number so you and your pet can be reunited quickly.
Learn First Aid for Your Pet
If your pet gets a cut, what should you do? What about snake bites? Your pet's life can be saved if you know what to do in an emergency. Several online courses are available, and you may be able to attend a course with your pet in person in some locations.
Volunteer or Donate to a Local Rescue
COVID lockdowns have been very difficult for rescue groups. Due to the cancellation of their usual fundraisers, such as barbeques, they have struggled to continue to raise money to care for and feed the animals they are rescuing. Reach out to a local rescue and see how you can help. Donate old towels, blankets, food, or flea and tick medication if you have any. Don't have the time to volunteer or the goods to donate? In addition to helping the rescue pay off their often large vet bills, cash donations are always appreciated.
