Los Angeles, January 4, 2018 – There is still time to make your New Year’s resolutions! And, may we suggest that you consider including your companion animals too? Maybe your goal is to eat healthier, work out more often and spend more time with your family. Well, does your dog or cat need to drop a few pounds or exercise more as well? LA Animal Services shares some ideas with you to keep you and your pets happy and healthy in 2018.
1. Help your pet eat healthy and watch their weight.
Measuring meals can help you maintain your pet’s weight and their overall health. Whether you plan meals or free-feed your pet, calculate their calorie goals, find out how much you should feed each day, and measure it out to ensure proper nutrition.
2. Schedule a vet check-up.
Make sure your best friend is healthy by scheduling an annual exam with your vet and checking that his or her vaccines are up-to-date. Yearly examinations by the veterinarian are a key component of good preventive care. Many medical conditions such as diabetes, arthritis or heart problems are common in aging pets and are much easier to manage when found early.
3. Start a daily grooming routine.
Brushing your dog or cat daily only takes a few minutes and helps remove dead hair- which also reduces the amount of fuzz you find on your clothes, floor and furniture. It also helps distribute oils from the skin to their fur, keeping their coat shiny and healthy. Don’t forget to brush his or her teeth too! Brushing teeth often is the best way to keep tartar and plaque under control.
4. Teach an old dog a new trick.
Teaching your dog a new trick or playing a new game with your cat stimulates their mind. By keeping your furry friend’s brain active, you can actually help make your pet healthier and keep them out of trouble.
5. Update your pet’s ID information.
If you moved or have a new phone number, be sure to update your pet’s license, tags and microchip with your current contact information. It’s the best way to reunite you and your buddy if they happen to get lost.
6. Exercise together.
Going on extra walks each week or running around the dog park together is a great way to bond with your dog. It’ll get you both out of the house, and you and your pet will reap the rewards of healthy physical activity.
These six resolutions won’t only benefit your pet, but strengthen your companionship with them, which only means more nuzzles from your best friend in the new year!