With 2023 in full swing, you are probably setting new goals to switch up your daily routine and some of your lifestyle choices for the better. When thinking about New Year’s resolutions, pet owners should consider ideas that will benefit those beyond themselves and wonder how they can promote a healthier lifestyle for their dogs.
According to the ASPCA, around 4.1 million shelter animals are adopted annually, with two million dogs and 2.1 million cats. Whether you are looking to adopt a new furbaby or ensure that you are making the best lifestyle choices for your dog as possible, the Pets a Go Go team is sharing our favorite New Year’s resolutions for pet owners who are looking to promote a healthier lifestyle for their pups.
Go for daily walks. Making sure you take at least one 30 minute walk each day with your dog is a bonding experience and benefits both you and your pups’ physical well-being. Walking also has positive implications for a dog’s mental health as it allows for socialization and exploration. Dogs love to sniff around to learn more about their surroundings.
Bathe and groom your dog regularly. It is standard for dogs to be bathed every four to six weeks and receive routinely scheduled haircuts. Your dog’s fur type will determine how often they should get a trim. This year, dog owners should strive to build a relationship with a local groomer, as getting groomed makes a dog look beautiful and helps dogs maintain healthy skin. Getting your pup’s nails cut is another essential part of the grooming routine because long nails risk getting the dog caught on rugs or furniture and don’t allow for comfortable walking.
Stay on top of routine veterinarian visits. If your dog appears to be healthy and their energy levels are up, it may be tempting to skip out on their annual veterinarian visit. However, staying on top of scheduling these appointments will allow veterinarians to identify serious health problems that require early intervention. In addition, there are several annual vaccines and tests, such as the rabies shot, that are required for dogs to socialize in public spaces, so it is important to ensure that your records stay up to date.
Enroll in Doggie Daycare. If you are returning to work and there is nobody at home to watch your dog, it is important to consider registering your pup in doggie daycare. Furbabies of any breed or age can participate, and these facilities have a positive impact on both physical and mental health. Hiring a dog walker is not an equal substitute for doggie daycare as this only gives pups 30 minutes of attention. Allowing your dog to get the exercise and socialization that they crave will result in less destructive behavior, lower levels of separation anxiety, and an overall boost to their physical health.
If you are looking for an engaging place for your furbaby to get the exercise they need while playing with other dogs, learn more about Pets a Go Go’s doggie daycare options HERE.
