The beginning of the year serves as an ideal time to set new personal goals. However, we often focus on ways to better ourselves without necessarily considering how we might improve the lives of our animals. From scheduling annual pet wellness exams to enjoying more playtime together, there are many tasks you can do as their owner to help them stay happy and healthy through 2019 and the years to come.

7 Resolutions for Pet Owners in 2019

1. Go on Daily Walks

Taking your pet outside provides mental stimulation, but it also improves their physical health. Like humans, pets can gain weight if they hibernate indoors all winter, so long walks can benefit both you and your animal.

2. Give Sensible Treats

It’s tempting to give pets a few scraps of table food, but make this a habit you kick in the new year. Feeding only small, healthy snacks, such as vet-approved treats, can prevent your pet from accumulating extra “winter padding.”

3. Brush Teeth Regularly

Both cats and dogs can develop dental issues without regular oral hygiene. Brushing your pet’s teeth is a powerful way to safeguard against potentially painful conditions, such as gum disease.

4. Enroll in Obedience Classes

Whether you have a leash-reactive dog or an obsessive chewer, it’s time to address behavioral issues in your pet this year. Not only will it provide you with peace of mind, but your pet may also learn to feel more at ease with the right training.

5. Plan a Pet-Friendly Adventure

If your animal travels well, consider booking a pet-friendly trip. Map out your route by locating rest stops with designated pet areas, and book accommodations where your dog or cat will be welcome.

6. Attend Pet Wellness Exams

Pet wellness exams cover a comprehensive range of health needs for your animal. Your vet will perform a general health assessment to look for any irregularities that should be addressed, keep your pet up-to-date on vaccines, and provide preventatives for potentially deadly conditions, such as heartworm.

7. Spend More Time With Your Pet

Quality time can boost your mood—and your pet’s. It’s easy for busy owners to overlook playtime, so consider scheduling it by setting up a recurring daily reminder in your phone. To keep your pet engaged, switch up playtime with new games and activities, like rolling the ball or “find the treat.”

If you’re a pet owner in the La Crosse, WI, area seeking a trusted team to oversee your animal’s health, turn to Thompson Animal Medical Center. Offering preventive care such as pet wellness exams and 24-hour emergency services, this team of animal-loving professionals will help local owners ensure a long and happy life for their pets. Browse through their full list of services online, and call (608) 788-8820 to schedule an appointment.