Easy “Resolutions” to improve your dog’s life in the New Year
Every new year many people make resolutions and have great intentions, but a lot of times they just don’t happen. I’ve never been one to make resolutions, instead I strive to work on changing a behavior.
The most successful one for me was to not let negativity in. I must say that was a very eventful year. I am where I am today because of that decision that year and I couldn’t be more happy.
We love our pets and want the best for them and so take a look at the following resolution list and strive to take on just one.
Don’t over-complicate anything or else you won’t do anything. Above all pick one and keep that in the forefront of your mind and go for it. Maybe write it down on a notepad and stick it around the house as a reminder.
Love your pet as you always do and make a great life for the both of you.
- Here’s a fun one: take more photos of your dog.
- Get more exercise, walk your dog at least twice a day.
- Regularly give your dog a bath to keep their coat healthy and build a good bond.
- Make sure your pet’s bedding is washed and clean.
- Research QUALITY food, treats & supplements for the best nutrition. Don’t just buy the cheapest brand.
- If you provide people food, know what can be toxic to your pets health and provide appropriate amounts to avoid problems like obesity.
- Provide healthier treats.
- Consider researching and investing in pet insurance for unexpected vet expenses or regular health and wellness.
- Keep up to date with your dog’s heartworm prevention and flea & tick prevention for the whole year.
- Microchip your dog.
- Make sure your dog’s tags are up to date with your contact information.
- Spay or neuter your dog. Not only does it help with pet population, but helps to lower or eliminate diseases.
- Play more!
- Spend more time together by working from home or inquiring if you can take your dog to work.
- Sign up for a training class. Usually the pet parent needs the training more than the pet. You’ll both have fun and you’ll learn some great techniques to have a well behaved pup.
- Start brushing their teeth daily as soon as you get your pet so they are used to the activity.
- Toys, toys, toys. Rotate out your pet’s toys to keep them from getting bored.
- Throw your dog a pawsome birthday party.
- Regularly trim your dog’s nails yourself or have someone do it for you.
- Just like humans, dogs require at least annual vet visits to maintain a healthy body.
- Do something new to provide a fun experience, like dog beach, doggie park or play date.
- Teach an old dog, or a new dog a new trick. Dog’s love to please and they will have fun.
- Think about fostering a dog for a short time. You can make a difference and your furry buddy can have a play friend.
- Give your dog a massage or reiki. They will love the attention and you can both benefit from the experience.
- Take a dog-friendly vacation.
- Always pic up your pet’s waste. Biodegradable waste bags easily attach to your leash so you have them wherever you go.
- Splurge on a doggie spa for a day.
- Take an agility class or try out dock diving together.
“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.” Roger Caras
- Have a seatbelt or safety harness when you travel in a car with your pet.
- Let your dog sleep with you. You’ll both enjoy it.
- Take your time on your walk. Let your dog sniff and explore.
- Have an emergency vet number handy for unexpected events.
- Wash your dog’s water and food bowls every day.
- Wash your dog’s favorite toys.
- Pay attention to the weather. For example, hot pavement can be painful to walk on, also snow and ice is no fun either.
- Take your dog to the store and let them pick out their own toy.
- Talk more like, really communicate with your animal. You may be surprised at what you’ll learn.
- Fireworks are scary. Consider staying home on the holidays to comfort your pet.
- Hire a doggy walker if you’re gone for long parts of the day.
- Ditch rawhide. Plain and simple, It is not good for your dog.
- Get stainless steel bowls and raise them up to a comfortable height for your dog.
- What will happen if your dog outlives you? Consider including them in your will for their continued care.
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Whether you make a resolution or a simple change in your life, being a dog owner can be a challenge.
Dogs are fun, funny, loving, and life with a dog can be very fulfilling. Our dogs lives are much too short and we need to make the most of the time we have with them.
Debi
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Do you love animals too?
PS. Behavior Training For Dogs – Develop your Dogs “Hidden Intelligence”
Have A Well Behaved Dog: Dog Training System
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