MAKING 2022 PET FRIENDLY
The new year brings 365 days of renewed hope, new goals, and new opportunities to focus on our furry friends. The custom of making New Year’s resolutions has been around for thousands of years. Today, most resolutions revolve around self promises and improvements. But why not make some resolutions around your pets?
This year, consider your pets when making New Year’s resolutions. Just like us, they could benefit from improvements to their wellness routines. It’s easy. Think about the resolutions that you want for yourself. What makes you happy? What new activity do you want to try? What are the healthy lifestyle changes you want to make? Now, see if you can incorporate your pet into these ideas.
Here are some New Year’s resolution ideas we think will help promote a happier, healthier year for you and your four-legged friends:.
1. Exercise/Play Regularly
Exercising and playing with your pet is a satisfying experience that can relieve pet stress and lead to relaxation. Playtime can also be a great way for you to get a little exercise at the same time as your pet. An increase in activity (like playing with toys or going on walks) is necessary in order for your pet to maintain a healthy lifestyle. If you have a hectic schedule, aim to get in at least 15 minutes of pet playtime/exercise every day.
2. Brush Daily
One of the best things you can do for your pet is to establish an at-home dental care routine. Both dogs and cats benefit from teeth brushing. At an early age, pets can develop dental disease which causes them pain. The build-up of plaque, tartar, and gingivitis can worsen their problems. You can start by brushing your pet’s teeth a few nights a week and working up to daily brushings. Try keeping your pets toothpaste and toothbrush in a spot that you see daily as a friendly reminder.
3. Groom Often
While you’re making a resolution to brush your pet’s teeth daily, why not include regular grooming? Grooming your pet can remove excess fur from the coat and reduce the amount you find on your clothes and furniture. It can also help to keep their coat shiny and healthy. Plus, a majority of pets love to be groomed.
4. Eating Better
This is the perfect time to evaluate what, when and how much your pet is eating. Resolve to ensure that your pet is eating the proper diet for their age and nutritional requirements. Don’t just eyeball the amount of food you are giving them, use proper measuring cups. Also, stay mindful of the food your pet is eating: both meals and treats. No more table scraps. Try healthier snack options like homemade pet treats.
5. Keep Up to Date
Entering a new year, it is a good time to make sure your pet has an updated tag and microchip information. Maybe you’ve recently moved to a new house, changed your phone number or maybe your pet has lost their ID tag? Making sure their information is up to date is the best way to ensure a lost pet can make their way safely home.
In addition to their info, establishing regular check-ins with a vet makes sure their health is up to date. Common chronic issues (like diabetes and arthritis) can be managed better when diagnosed early. Regular vet visits mean earlier detection, which will lengthen your pet’s healthy years. Making sure your pets get their yearly checkups and shots is even more crucial if they have entered their senior years.
6. Volunteer
Still in need of another New Year’s resolution? Why not make one of your resolutions about helping your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Whether it is by fostering a rescue pet, making a monetary or food donation, or volunteering your time, giving back is one of the best resolutions you can make for the upcoming year!
Follow this link to learn more about volunteering through the Humane Society of Loudoun County.
Follow this link to learn more about fostering through the Humane Society of Loudoun County.