THE New Year is the perfect time for setting goals and starting afresh. And whilst setting goals for ourselves such as losing weight, getting more exercise or eating less are all worthy ambitions, our pets are often overlooked in our New Year resolutions. And with the love and joy that they bring us every day, we believe that the health and happiness of our furry friends should be among our top priorities for the New Year ahead.
Visit the veterinarian: Christmas and school holiday period has been a busy time for everyone. There is no better time than the new year to have your pet’s overall health assessed, vaccinations bought up to date and parasite preventatives checked.
Update your pet registration. A huge number of pets are reunited with their owners each year through microchipping. Make sure you update your pet’s registration with any changes of phone numbers or address details. Fireworks and thunderstorm season sees many pets go missing and end up in pound facilities. A simple call to the council or accessing the NSW Pet Registry directly will ensure that your pet always finds its way home.
Improve your pet’s training: Having a dog that is well trained, obedient, happy, relaxed and responsive means that not only will your dog be easier to manage and be safer in potentially dangerous situations, but you will also get more pleasure from dog ownership and as a result, will be more likely to be closer with your dog.
Lose weight together. Review the diets of both you and your pet and make the changes together. If you have a dog, gradually increase the amount you walk together. It’s a great bonding activity and will get you both outdoors in the fresh air. Always ensure that your dog is on a lead and under control.
Create a safe, happy home and garden: Since our pets spend most time at home or in the garden, we should do our best to build them safe, entertaining places to rest and play. Make sure all potentially harmful substances are kept in cabinets that your pet cannot easily reach and access. An environment that stimulates your pet will keep their brain active and makes for a healthier pet.
Incorporate more playtime: The health benefits of being with animals are undisputed – they are known to reduce stress, lower blood pressure and increase day-to-day happiness. Cats love the thrill of chasing a laser toy and toys that trigger a cat’s predatory instinct whilst our dogs love being rewarded for retrieving balls and toys.
Whether you’re focused on a New Year’s resolution for your pet, yourself, or both, you don’t have to wait for the New Year. Work toward these goals at any time of the year for a healthier and more fulfilling life with your fur baby.
The team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital are just a phone call away on 4736 2027 to assist you throughout 2024 with your pet’s needs.
