New Year’s Resolutions for You and Your Pet

The start of a new year is the perfect time to look at your daily habits and determine how they fit into your goals. The goal is to make any necessary changes to help you achieve those goals. New Year’s resolutions do not just have to benefit the humans in your family, however. This year, think about some pet New Year’s resolutions that you can do with your favorite feline or your canine companion to set your year off on the right paw!

Exercise with Your Pet

Whether you have two legs or four, implementing an exercise routine is a great way to start off 2022 feeling your best. If you are looking for a way to include your pet in your resolutions for the New Year, think about some physical activities that you can do together. If you have a dog, try to schedule a few really long walks during the week. This gives you the opportunity to enjoy the fresh air, get your blood pumping, and spend even more quality time together. Hikes are also a great dog-friendly activity that will bring you some health benefits. Or you may want to explore an agility class that you will give your dog activity and help you two bond even more.

If you have cats, there are plenty of great ways to exercise with your felines that give you a workout too. For indoor cats, interactive games like hide and seek or an agility course are both physically and mentally stimulating. If you have trained your cat to walk on a harness or leash, you can even bring him along on your next hike. 

Eat Healthier

Getting the right amount of nutrients is as important for our furry friends as it is for us. As you start to think about your New Year’s resolutions, consider making a few small, but healthy changes to your diet to ensure your whole family is using food as fuel. Talk to your veterinarian about the best kind of diet for your pet’s specific health needs. Factors like age, breed, and health history might affect the kinds of foods your pet needs. You want to be sure you are giving your pet the proper kind and amount of nutrients to help her live a long, healthy life with you. If you do make changes to your pet’s diet, be sure to transition over the course of a week.

Go On Adventures Together

If your New Year’s resolution is to be more adventurous, why not include your pet in the fun? Whether you want to start traveling more or you want to explore new areas of your hometown, enlisting your pet as an adventure buddy is a great way to stay motivated to achieve this resolution. If you are planning to travel with pets, be sure to plan for the following:

• Pet-friendly accommodations: do some research before getting on the road to find hotels and other accommodations that welcome pets.
• Travel safety gear: It is important to outfit your pet with the proper safety gear before planning a trip so they can travel safely. Whether you are flying or driving, be sure to have the correct crate, harnesses, travel bowls, and first-aid kits.
• Emergencies: Although it is unlikely, it is important to be prepared for an emergency when planning a trip with your pet. Bring his or her health history and find a reputable emergency vet where you will be traveling.

At OVRS, we want to help you give your pets a healthy and happy life. You can start with New Year’s resolutions for your and your pet, or just make small improvements anytime. From emergency veterinary services to specialty care, we are always here for you. To learn more, call (248) 334-6877.