Resolutions to improve our habits are something many of us make every New Years. Most of us don’t live up to our own expectations. For pet owners there is help. Make New Year’s resolutions that include your pets! These will give you the extra motivation you need to have a healthier and happier 2020.
Pet Ownership Makes Resolutions to Exercise Easier to Keep
Dr. Douglas A Kratt, the president elect of the American Veterinary Medical Association said the number one resolution he wished pet owners would make is to “Make them a happy healthy part of your life.” Interviewed by Steve Dale on Pet World, Dr. Kratt pointed out that dog owners tend to walk longer and more frequently than non pet owners. Both ends of the leash gain benefit. Taking your dog to a safe park, where you can throw a ball or even do obedience training, is great exercise for all.
Cats may be a little more challenging to encourage to exercise. There are many new interactive cat toys, like battery powered “mice”, puzzles, and mobiles. One of our clients at the Animal Clinic at Thorndale figured out a way to do stair aerobics with his sedentary cat. He would chase his cat up the stairs. Once they were both up top, the owner picked up the cat and carried him back down the stairs to start over again. Both he and the cat lost weight!
Resolving to Eat Healthier is Good for Pets, Too.
Many of us will resolve to improve our nutrition in the new year. Obesity and excess weight are major contributing factors in osteoarthritis, heart disease and diabetes. This is true not just in people, but in dogs and cats as well. Approximately 50% of dogs and 60% of cats in the U.S.A. are overweight. Consult your veterinarian on which pet diets are appropriate for your individual pet. Remember that not all the information you find on-line is up to date, accurate, or even safe. Resolve to partner with your pet’s veterinarian, using the background research you have done, to create the best healthcare plan for your individual pet’s needs and life stage.
Calming Resolutions for Owners and Pets
Some of us will resolve to find more calmness in our lives. We want to reduce the stress of our day to day existence. If you are a stressed pet owner, you are likely contributing to your pet’s stress level as well. This is especially apparent when a stressed and excited owner brings their pet to the veterinary clinic. Both owner and pet have trouble focusing and relaxing, even during routine examinations. Resolve to “take a deep breath”. Calm yourself. Count to ten, or whatever it takes to rein in your emotions. Share that new “Zen” with your pet.
Most importantly, remember that many of the things we resolve to accomplish in the new year are actually life style changes, not short term goals. Be kind to yourself when you slip and get back on track. Having a furry friend to travel the journey with you will make it more enjoyable and rewarding for you both.