New Year Tips from 24Petwatch

Why make New Year resolutions for you and your pet

The New Year is a time for fresh starts, and including your pet in your resolutions benefits both of you. Many pet-related goals, like regular exercise or better nutrition, align with personal resolutions, creating healthier lifestyles for both of you.

Plus, spending intentional time with your pet, whether through training or play, builds trust and deepens your relationship.

Pets are vital to our lives, and improving their well-being strengthens the bond you share while enhancing your own habits.

1. Commit to daily movement

Exercise is one of the best ways to keep both you and your pet healthy. It provides physical, mental, and emotional benefits, reducing stress and improving overall well-being.

According to the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, between 50 and 60 percent of pets in Canada are currently overweight or obese. Regular exercise can help manage their weight and overall health.

Creative ways to get active:

Structured walks: Add variety by changing the route or terrain. If you usually walk in your neighbourhood, try a hiking trail or a dog-friendly beach.
Interactive play: Fetch, tug-of-war, or even hide-and-seek are excellent ways to engage your pet.
Canine sports: Activities like agility, flyball, or dock diving are great for high-energy breeds. For cats, try interactive chase toys and feather wands.

Monitor your pet’s behaviour during exercise. Overexertion can lead to heatstroke or fatigue, especially in breeds with short snouts or older pets.

2. Focus on pet nutrition

Nutrition forms the foundation of your pet’s health, impacting their energy levels, coat quality, and longevity. Many pet owners unknowingly overfeed or offer inappropriate foods, leading to long-term health issues.

Understanding pet nutrition:

Tailored Diets: Your pet’s age, breed, size, and health status all impact their dietary needs.
Healthy Treats: Replace calorie-heavy treats with nutritious alternatives like carrot sticks, apple slices (without seeds), or cooked plain chicken. Always avoid toxic foods like chocolate, grapes, artificial sweeteners, and onions.

Steps to upgrade your pet’s diet:

Your veterinarian can recommend the best food for your pet’s specific needs.
Use a measuring cup or scale. Pay attention to feeding guidelines on food packaging.
While consistency is key, occasional additions like plain pumpkin (good for digestion) or fish oil (for a shiny coat) can provide extra nutrients.

Feeding your pet a well-balanced diet supports their immune system, keeps their weight in check, and reduces the risk of chronic illnesses.

3. Schedule regular vet visits

Many pet health issues go unnoticed until they become serious. Regular vet visits can catch these problems early, saving your pet discomfort and potentially reducing treatment costs.

Why preventative care matters:

Vaccinations, dental checkups, and routine screenings help detect problems like diabetes, kidney disease, or dental infections before they worsen.

How to stay on top of vet visits:

Set reminders: Use a calendar app or physical planner to track appointments, vaccinations, and treatments like flea prevention.
Know the basics: Learn how to check your pet’s vital signs at home, like their gum colour, heart rate, and breathing, to monitor their health between visits.
Don’t forget dental care: Oral health is often overlooked but is a foundational aspect of your pet’s overall health. More than 85% of dogs and cats older than 3 years of age have some degree of periodontal disease. Regular dental care can help prevent it.