Stay Active
Just like humans, pets benefit greatly from regular exercise, plus exercising is always more fun with a (furry) friend. Whether it’s daily walks, more playtime, or teaching your cat to enjoy a climbing tower, increasing physical activity helps prevent obesity and improves mental health. Not to mention, being active together provides a great bonding opportunity.
Eat Well
Good nutrition is the foundation of both you and your pet’s health and well-being. A balanced diet consisting of wholesome, nourishing food is one of the best ways to stay healthy. While we all like to indulge once in a while, it's important to create healthy habits. Avoid table scraps and snacks, and opt for healthier options such as carrots, apples, or homemade pet treats.
Get More Sleep
One thing our furry friends have in common is their love of sleep. Dogs and cats can spend more than half of their lives sleeping and can sleep as much as 12 to 18 hours a day. While you don't need quite that much rest, quality sleep is vital for a both you and your pet's mental and physical health. Poor sleep can lead to a slew of health problems, so it's important to prioritize getting a good night's rest.
Make Time For Fun
We're all juggling busy schedules, but it's important to carve out time for fun. As tempting as it is to kick back and enjoy some quiet time after a busy day or week, you can quickly feel reenergized by doing something that you love. When it comes to pets, playtime is the best! Not only is it fun for pets, regular playtime provides an important outlet for energy and stress.
It's important to note that while cats and dogs often thrive on routine, that doesn't mean that they can't become bored. Change things up every once in a while by exploring new places or teaching your pets new tricks. Learning new skills or practicing ones they already know provides much needed mental and physical stimulation for your pet. It also improves obedience and positive behavior, ultimately working to strengthen your bond.
Get A Check Up
They say that the greatest wealth is health! Keeping up with annual exams is important for long term health for both you and your pet. Regular exams will help catch potential health issues, often before they become a serious problem, and increase the chances of successful treatment. Take this opportunity to review your pet's health history and ensure they’re up to date on checkups and vaccines. And of course, prevention is key. Protect your pet all year long with once a month preventative medication for fleas, ticks, and heartworm disease.
Just like humans, pets can benefit from positive changes and improvements in their lives. So if you're setting goals for yourself, why not include your furry friend? This year, work together to create a healthier and happier lifestyle. Happy New Year!
