If you made resolutions to achieve in 2023, you are in good company. However, New Year’s resolutions do not only have to be for people. This year, establish some resolutions for your pet too. Health and happiness improvement resolutions are a great way for you and your pet to start the new year, providing you both with positive goals. If you haven’t yet made 2023 resolutions for your pet, you still have time. Read our Sixes Animal Hospital at BridgeMill team’s pet health New Year’s resolutions to jump-start the year on the right paw—er foot. 

Improve your pet’s physical health

Good health is your pet’s overall wellbeing foundation. By taking a proactive approach to your pet’s health in 2023, you may be adding years to their life. Take charge of your pet’s health by following these tips:

    • Schedule regular wellness exams — Regular wellness exams and preventive care are essential to keeping your pet healthy. During your pet’s annual wellness examinations, your veterinarian becomes familiar with their lifestyle, personality, and health history. Diagnostic screenings help your veterinarian detect early illness signs and address health issues before they progress.
    • Update your pet’s vaccines — Pets are susceptible to many dangerous infectious diseases. Fortunately—through routine vaccination—your pet can completely avoid these illnesses. Vaccines stimulate your pet’s immune system to fight dangerous infectious diseases. By ensuring your pet’s vaccines are up-to-date, you help extend your pet’s life
    • Protect your pet from parasites year-round — Many parasites can cause your pet health issues, and if your four-legged friend does not receive regular parasite control medication, they are at risk for contracting a potentially life-threatening infectious disease. Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, intestinal worms, and other parasites can cause your pet serious illness, and the easiest most effective way to protect your four-legged friend’s health is to ensure they receive year-round preventive medication. 
    • Develop a pet dental care routine — Dental health is a major part of your pet’s overall health, but more than 70% of dogs and 80% of cats show dental disease signs by 3 years of age. Many pet owners do not understand oral health’s importance, which can affect your furry friend’s overall wellbeing. Neglecting your pet’s regular dental care can cause them to experience unnecessary pain, periodontal disease, permanent organ damage, and a shortened lifespan. Take control of your pet’s oral health by establishing a dental care routine that includes the following:
      • Daily toothbrushing at home
      • Pet-safe dental products and Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)-approved dental chews
      • Regular veterinary dental exams and cleanings
    • Maintain your pet’s healthy weight — With more than half the U.S. pet population overweight or obese, monitoring your pet’s weight is essential. You are responsible for learning how to help your pet reach and maintain a healthy body condition. Assess your pet’s weight at home by evaluating their body condition score (BCS). Using the BCS, you observe your pet from above and the side, palpating several body areas. Follow these tips to help your pet shed extra pounds and maintain a healthy weight:
      • Calculate your pet’s daily calorie allotment — Pets can easily surpass their daily recommended calorie intake. To determine the number of calories your pet needs, use this calorie calculator for your dog or cat. These calculators can help you determine the daily calorie amount your pet should eat to lose, maintain, or gain weight.
      • Measure your pet’s food —  Using an actual measuring cup—rather than eyeballing—ensures you are giving your pet the correct food amount. By measuring their food amount, you can be certain your pet is getting a true cup.
      • Exercise daily — Proper nutrition is essential to keep your pet at a healthy weight, and daily exercise is equally important. A daily walk will help you and your pet reach your fitness goals while strengthening your pet-owner bond. 

Provide your pet with more socialization opportunities

Socialization is essential for your pet’s mental health. Your four-legged friend loves to get out and explore the world with you, and socialization opportunities are everywhere. Bring your pet on car rides and walks in new places, and visit pet-friendly establishments. Give your pet a chance to socialize with other animals by coordinating playdates or bringing them to doggy daycare. Remember, when you socialize with your pet, ensure they are comfortable by watching for stress or fatigue signs such as:

  • Tucking their tail between their legs
  • Yawning
  • Lip licking
  • Eye contact avoidance
  • Whining
  • Panting
  • Showing the whites of their eyes
  • Cowering
  • Raising their hackles

Support your pet’s mental health

Regular exercise benefits your pet’s physical health, and mental stimulation will help rev up their brain activity. Keep your pet’ brain sharp by providing them with mental enrichment activities such as:

  • Feeding them from a food puzzle
  • Hiding treats around the house for them to track down
  • Rotating toys to prevent boredom
  • Giving them a Kong filled with xylitol-free peanut butter
  • Introducing them to agility training
  • Teaching them a new trick 

By including your pet’s health and wellbeing in your New Year’s resolutions, you help ensure you will both be living your best life in 2023. Contact our Sixes Animal Hospital at BridgeMill team to schedule your four-legged friend’s wellness examination.