10 New Year’s Resolutions for You and Your Dog
The new year brings many opportunities to develop healthy, more mindful habits. Every year, countless Americans set goals for themselves. Why shouldn’t these promises for better health and wellness carry over to your pets, as well? Listed here are ten resolutions you can start achieving today for a happier, healthier 2019 with your dog.
Update Emergency Information
There is no doubt that microchips and dog tags save lives every year. However, incorrect or outdated information on a dog’s record can create major delays in helping a pet find his or her way home. Make sure your dog’s information is up to date. Go online or call your dog’s microchip manufacturer (make sure you know your dog’s identification number) and provide any new information that might be necessary.
No microchip? Many veterinarians provide this service for a minimal fee.
Spring Clean Your Dog’s Toys, Bowls, and Bedding (Regularly)
Did you know that your dog’s food and water bowls are among the dirtiest areas in your home? A dog’s mouth contains germs and bacteria that can continue to grow in dark, moist areas like a used food bowl (especially when bits of food are left behind). Not only can these bacteria – including salmonella, e. coli, and giardia – infect humans in the household, but they can make your pets sick as well. Food and water dishes should be washed regularly, preferably every 1 - 3 days.
Other areas in your home where germs are likely to reside are dog toys (especially toys that are filled with food, like KONGs), beds, collars, and leashes. Commit to washing these items more regularly in 2019 for better household health.
Master a Life-Saving Skill
While most skills that dogs learn double fun party tricks, there are certain commands that can be life-saving. These include stay, come, drop it, and leave it. If your dog has not been proofed in each command under all forms of distraction, make this resolution a priority in 2019.
Learn Canine CPR
While your dog learns life-saving command, you can learn a useful skill as well. CanineCPR and the Heimlich maneuver are two worthwhile skills to have, for both your pets and any dogs you may encounter.
Spend More Time Together
If your dog had one wish for 2019, it would be to spend more quality time with his or her favorite person. Even just five extra minutes per day walking, snuggling, or playing could make a huge difference for your dog’s happiness and quality of life. Take your dog on a special hike once per month, bring him or her along when you run dog-friendly errands, or set aside extra time on a Sunday for a trip to the dog park. Your pup will thank you!
Eat Healthier
A new year’s resolution you and your dog can tackle together is healthier eating. Cut out table scraps and calorie-laden treats for your dog while making healthy swaps for yourself. You both will have higher energy levels and a longer lifespan!
Donate to Charity
You and your dog can donate to charity together by utilizing apps such as Charity Miles. Simply download the app, choose a charity, and earn money for the charity every time you walk your dog. Not only will you be exercising and spending time together, but you both will be a force for good!
Focus on Gut Health
The importance of good gut health cannot be underestimated. Signs of poor gut health include allergies, arthritis, skin disorders, poor recovery, chronic disease, vomiting, and diarrhea. A major contributor to poor gut health is inflammation. WINPRO supplements utilize proven animal blood proteins to immediately go to work reducing gut inflammation for enhanced mobility, allergy relief, stress reduction, improved focus, or enhanced recovery.
Reduce Stress and Anxiety
You and your dog will benefit from reduced stress and anxiety in 2019. Stress is a leading cause of chronic inflammation, which wreaks havoc on the health of both animals and people. Commit to one activity per week that relieves stress, such as a calming doggy massage session. Studies have shown that giving your dog a massage will relieve stress and anxiety while reducing both of your blood pressures!
Commit to Dental Health
Finally, commit to better dental health for your dog in 2019. Gum disease is a leading killer in dogs, and it is almost entirely preventable. Create a tooth-brushing habit for your pet and don’t forget to schedule your dog’s annual teeth-cleaning appointment.
