Entering a new year is usually a time for people to reflect on their achievements and look for opportunities for self-improvement. If you’re tired of the same resolutions, try animal wellness goals for your pet. By making simple changes to your four-legged friend’s daily routine, you can greatly improve their happiness and longevity.

5 New Year’s Resolutions for Animal Wellness

1. Get Active

Daily exercise burns excess calories to prevent pet obesity and its related health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Walking, spending time in the backyard, hiking, and other activities are all ways to help dogs reach the minimum daily exercise recommendation of 30 minutes. Requiring half of that activity, cats can fare well with indoor toys and climbing towers.

2. Prioritize Play

Apart from fitness, playing with your pets is another way to help them achieve their exercise goals. However, these activities can offer many other benefits. Whether you’re playing catch or tug-of-war, you’ll strengthen your bond with your creature companion, relieve their stress, and reinforce training lessons.

3. Brush Teeth Daily

Over time, plaque buildup in your pet’s mouth may contribute to cavities, gum disease, and dental infections. To avoid these problems, brush your animal’s teeth every day using a pet-friendly toothpaste and brush. If you have trouble brushing daily, provide them with bones or toys that promote chewing and clean teeth.

4. Redefine Diet

Another way to help avoid pet obesity dangers is to manage your animal’s meals. With input from a trusted veterinarian, you may find your companion is consuming too many calories and processed ingredients. Even if your cat or dog does follow a healthy diet, it’s a good idea to check in with a vet. As pets age, they require different nutrients to support their changing animal wellness needs.

5. Develop Good Grooming Habits

In addition to preventing excessive shedding, brushing your pet daily can help them avoid matting, protect their skin, and boost their coat’s appearance. Trimming your animal’s nails regularly will also preserve their mobility and prevent foot pain.

Helping your pet embrace health doesn’t have to be a task you tackle all on your own. Seek help from the caring professionals at Waipio Pet Clinic on Oahu. Equipped with the latest industry tools, these veterinarians comfortably provide everything from puppy shots to pet surgery to help maintain animal wellness. For more details on their veterinary services and current specials, visit this practice online. To schedule an appointment, call (808) 676-2205.