Top 5 New Year Resolutions for Dog Owners

January 4, 2023 | We Care | Sarah Clarkson

The start of a new year is always a great time to set resolutions for the new year. As you build your plan to make personal progress in 2023, factor in some resolutions for your dog ownership. Investing time and energy in your animal will undoubtedly also benefit your overall well-being in the coming year!

WALK YOUR DOG EVERY DAY

A daily walk is good for everyone’s physical health! Getting fresh air every day can be great for your and your dog’s mental health. Dogs love the stimulation walks provide! New smells and textures are exciting, and increased chances for socialization are great opportunities for behavioral training. Walks are a terrific way to strengthen your relationship with your dog!

  • Resolve to grab your dog’s leash and hit the great outdoors at least once daily.

INVEST IN YOUR DOG’S PREVENTATIVE HEALTH NEEDS

Once a dog has reached one year old, yearly visits to a vet are recommended. During their annual exam, your dog will receive a physical and be assessed for any issues. Most dogs should receive routine vaccinations for rabies, distemper, canine parvovirus, and canine adenovirus-2 (hepatitis). These vaccines protect them from devastating and life-threatening diseases like rabies and distemper. Similarly, parasite prevention is critical as mosquitos, fleas, and ticks can plague your dog all year. Heartworm disease is particularly dangerous, resulting in severe lung disease, heart failure, organ damage, and even death. Heartworm occurs when a parasitic worm called Dirofilaria immitis enters your dog’s bloodstream, usually through the bite of a mosquito. Preventative care can be expensive, but preventing problems before they start will save you money and stress in the long run.

  • Resolve to get your pet to the vet regularly!

TAKE CARE OF YOUR DOG’S TEETH AND GUMSĀ 

Veterinarians recommend that most dogs should have their teeth cleaned once a year. Without this yearly cleaning, plaque develops on the teeth. Plaque build up leads to gingivitis, periodontal disease, and tooth loss. Keeping your dog’s teeth and gums healthy will help prevent oral and dental decay. Just like in people, if plaque is left unchecked, the plaque’s bacteria can enter your dog’s bloodstream and spread to the heart, kidneys, and other critical organs. Even though getting your dog’s teeth cleaned yearly can be pricey, most vets offer discounts during certain months.

  • Resolve to speak to your vet about the best time to restore your dog’s teeth to their pearly whites!

Investing time and energy in your animal will undoubtedly also benefit your overall well-being in the coming year.

CONSIDER PHASING OUT ANY CHEMICALS THAT COULD BE HARMFUL

Many traditional cleaning products around your house can make your dog sick. Ingredients in disinfectants can be toxic and even fatal if ingested. Chemicals like chlorine, alcohol, bleach, ammonia, hydrogen peroxide and any compound that contains “phenol” in its description could be dangerous. Most floor cleaners, carpet shampoos, and even all-purpose sprays are hazardous for your pets to ingest, inhale or even absorb through the skin while they walk around or lick their paws.

Luckily, many new products are on the shelves today that are a great option as you resolve to keep your house clean and your pet safe in 2023. Check out these recommendations as you phase out your old cleaners in the new year, and…

  • Resolve to “go green” in 2023!

SPEND 5 MINUTES EACH DAY LOVING ON YOUR DOG

Last but not least, your relationship with your dog is good for your heart and soul. The positive feelings and endorphins released through the display of affection solidify your bond with your dogs and help create a happy and healthy life. Loving a dog has been proven to decrease levels of the stress-reducing hormone cortisol. Interacting with your dog more in 2023 can reduce your blood pressure, boost your mood and reduce loneliness!

  • Resolve to let your dog know how much you love them every day!

Here’s to achieving all your resolutions this year! Happy New Year to you and all the furry animals in your life!

If you enjoyed this post, you should read Why You Should Never Give - Or Get - A Pet During The Holidays here.

Let us know how you celebrated the holidays with the animals in your life!

Leave a comment!

Don't miss a Bark!

Sign up for monthly news from Barkswell.

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This