2021 is coming to a close, and it’s about time to start those New Year’s Resolutions again! Whether you’re jotting on a notepad, writing on a mirror or typing on your laptop, maybe it’s time to consider finding ways to include your pet this year on your way to the “new you.” Besides, last year probably opened you up to trying new things for a change. Why not keep that train going? So, as they say, “Out with the old, in with the new!” Throw away those same old resolutions you’ve made before and try these new resolutions that can improve both you and your pet’s lives this year!
Break a Sweat with Your Pet
Find ways to combine your workouts with activities your pet can participate in for their health as well.
For some of you, your gym might be closed. For others, the gym might just be way too busy with all the new members that are getting a jump on their own resolution to get in shape this year. Whichever one it is, it’s ok! Try some at-home workouts with your pets!
Weight loss and exercise is just as important for your furry friend, too. Though your pet probably can’t use those workout bands and dumbbells that you use during your weight training, they could definitely be great partners to accompany you during a walk or run! Rather than just letting your pet out to use the bathroom, grab that leash (or try a hands-free waist leash) and get to working on that fitness goal for 2022.
Depending on the weather, make sure you also keep your pet’s safety in mind as well. During the colder/hotter months, your pet may need booties or paw care products to protect them while they walk on pavement and terrains! If you aren’t sure, consult with your veterinarian what they would suggest for your pet during whichever activity you choose to do.
Some Food for Thought
It might be time to make a few adjustments to your pet’s diet as well.
Everyone, including our pets, can use a little update to their diet and nutrition during a new year. Whether it’s what, when or how much you and your pet are eating, the New Year is a great time to evaluate every aspect of our diet.
As you start to cut and plan out your diet for the year, consider looking into the things you’ve been feeding your pet and do the same for them. Maybe for every nighttime snack you cut out, take away those dinner table scraps you feed your pet. For every calorie you count for yourself, do the same (proportionally) for your pet as well.
Also, just as we as humans have different dietary and nutritional requirements based on age and health conditions, our pets require the same. Make sure you and your pet are eating the proper diet and meeting your nutritional requirements in order to keep your health in tip top shape this year.
Time to Brush Your Canines
Whether it’s your morning or night routine, make sure your pet’s grooming and hygiene is also in your agenda this year.
It’s ok to admit it. Your grooming and hygiene may have taken a bit of a backseat over the last couple years. We definitely won’t judge you for that, but it’s for sure about time to make your grooming routine a part of your resolutions and pull yourself back up again. While you’re at it, maybe pull your pet up with you! If you didn’t know already, you might find that there are a lot of things you do in your grooming routine that your pet also needs help doing.
First, the pearly whites. Dental care for pets is something that is often overlooked, but so important to maintaining their health. Now, COVID may have had an effect on your personal toothbrushing routine (though we hope not), but it’s pretty common knowledge that we as humans should be brushing our teeth about twice a day. This year, maybe bring your pet along in your morning and night routines! Brush your teeth and then give your pet some quick dental care as well.
Next is the grooming. Whether it’s beard care, bald head care, or hair care, we pay attention to the way we groom ourselves. Though it may not be as often or meticulous as your own, it could be fun to have specific days throughout the week or month that you dedicate to grooming with your pet. We definitely don’t recommend sharing a brush though.
If you aren’t sure exactly how often you should be grooming your pet, ask your vet what they suggest. The answer may differ based on the breed and the length/type of fur.
Say Goodbye to All Work, No Play
Take a some more breaks this year and enjoy some time off with your pet this year.
This one’s for the workaholics out there! It can be hard sometimes to take time for yourself and step away from the hustle and bustle of work or school. However, taking time out of your day to take mental breaks or just have some time away from work is important for your mental health. Having a pet around can definitely help with squeezing in a resolution for more “me time.”
This year, find some things that you enjoy doing and figure out ways to include your pet in a few of those things. Spending time for yourself is not only beneficial for you, but this type of “play” time also provides great benefits for your pet as well! Interactive play and time spent with your pets is a great way to bond with your pet while also providing some form of physical exercise. You may also find that this resolution helps reduce behavioral problems your pet may have (if they have any).
So, what are you waiting for? Put the phone or the laptop away (after you finish reading this of course) and take some time for you and your pet to be alone and enjoy yourselves. When was the last time you heard someone tell you, “it’s free time!”?
When Having a Pet Just Makes “Cents”
Find ways to include your pet on your way to financial freedom.
What? Your pet can help you save money? Well, kind of. If your resolution was to save money this year, it might be a good idea to also create some sort of emergency fund for your pet as well. Obviously, you hope that you never use that money, but if the last couple years have taught us anything at all, it’s that NOTHING is guaranteed, and you never know what’s going to happen. Also, best case scenario, you end up not needing it and now you’ve doubled down on saving for the year!
There really is no perfect way to start. Just set aside your personal savings and put whatever amount you feel comfortable putting towards your pet’s savings after that. Remember, you can always change and adjust how much you put towards the accounts throughout the year.
A Word From Shawsheen Animal Hospital
Happy New Year! With 2021 in the rear-view mirror now, we are so excited for all that 2022 has in store for us. We wish the absolute best for you, your family and your animal best friends during this new year and hope it is filled with memories to cherish for a lifetime. As you sit around making your resolutions this year, remember that your pets look up to you and love you unconditionally. Find ways to include them even more this year in your daily lives and return the love they give every single day. We hope 2022 is the best year yet for you and your pet!
