January is a time for change and personal growth and, after everything 2020 threw our way, facing 2021 with a positive outlook is sorely needed. When thinking about your New Year’s resolutions this year, add a few that incorporate your pet. After all, their past year was thrown into upheaval, too, and they could use some help getting back on track. So, when you create your New Year’s resolution list this year, focus on the following categories for your pet.
Pet resolutions focused on diet and exercise
Diet and exercise resolutions typically top most people’s lists, as they should for your pet. More than half the U.S. pet population is classified as overweight or obese, and these pets must shave off a few pounds and lead a healthier lifestyle. By maintaining an ideal body weight and exercising regularly, your furry pal will live a longer, healthier life, because their risk for a multitude of weight-related conditions will be lowered. Top resolutions for your pet’s diet and exercise goals include:
- Calculate your pet’s daily calorie allotment — Pets can easily go over their daily recommended calorie intake, especially if you’re unsure how much they should actually be eating. Naturally, a high-energy dog who hikes, competes in shows, or performs a job will require more calories than a couch potato pet. To determine how many calories your pet needs, use this calorie calculator for your dog or cat. Or, contact Dr. Wes for help determining exactly how many calories your pet needs to eat to lose, maintain, or gain weight.
- Measure your pet’s food — Once you know how many calories your pet needs each day, measure their food and ditch the full-bowl mentality. Rather than tossing a couple of scoops in a bowl, or always refilling the empty bowl, determine how many calories are in an actual measuring cup of food. Then, divide the number of cups of food your pet should have each day into two or three meals.
- Strive for daily exercise — While proper nutrition goes a long way toward keeping your pet at a healthy weight, daily exercise is equally important. If you’re not feeling up for a long walk around the neighborhood, at least throw your dog’s ball down the hallway, or play tug of war with a rope toy. And, while your cat may not be excited about the prospect of exercise, encourage them to move with a feather wand, laser pointer, or fishing pole toy.
Pet resolutions focused on mental health
We’ve realized from the COVID-19 pandemic the great importance of mental health for ourselves, and our furry friends. Although your cat may be stuck in “quarantine” each day and not allowed to leave the house, they can still have a great deal of fun in an enriching environment. In bad weather, your dog can also experience fun new activities and engage their mind. A few examples of mental health enrichment activities include:
- Food and treat puzzles
- Daily obedience training sessions
- New activities, skills, sports, or games
- Socialization with favorite people or pets
- Outlets for natural behaviors, like chewing, digging, climbing, and chasing
Environmental enrichment includes any activity that makes your pet use their brain or display natural behaviors. Through such enrichment, not only do you keep your pet in good physical shape, but you also contribute to their mental health, which can ward off behavior and medical issues.
Pet resolutions focused on physical health
Resolve to take care of your pet’s physical health, in addition to their mental health. Sign up for AutoShip on all your pet’s prescriptions through our online pharmacy, or order medication refills or prescription food as needed. Make 2021 the year you finally tackle brushing your pet’s teeth twice-weekly, if not daily. And, don’t forget to schedule your furry pal’s annual wellness visit for a thorough physical exam, lifestyle-appropriate vaccinations, and early detection screening. We want to keep your four-legged friend in tip-top shape for many years to come.
In 2021, resolve to spend more time cherishing your furry companion. Nothing matters more to your pet than time spent with their favorite human, and playing, exercising, and relaxing together will strengthen your bond. Keep your four-legged pal happy and healthy throughout the year by relying on your WesVet team. Give us a call to schedule your pet’s appointment.
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