When the calendar ticks over into January, a lot of us adopt aspirational New Year’s resolutions. And while things like fitness or personal growth are at the top of many people’s lists, being a pet owner provides unique opportunities for making positive changes in the new year. In fact, the resolutions we make around our pets can be simple, achievable, and improve our lives together.
5 Resolutions for Pet Owners
Even if you’re reading this in late January or beyond, it’s never too late to add changes to your routine — especially ones that can benefit you and your four-legged friend at the same time. Let’s look at five resolutions that any pet owner can implement to make days with their furry friends better.
1. Daily Walks
While many dog owners already give their pets outside time every day, this doesn’t always equate to walkies. But resolving to go beyond the bare minimum and enjoy a proper walk is a great way to bond with your dog, all while developing a good habit for your own mind and body. And what about other pets? This resolution is more universally applicable for dogs than cats, but some felines also love spending time outdoors.
2. Healthier Diet
Just like you may have resolved to eat healthier for yourself, your pet may also benefit from an upgrade in their diet. This can mean switching to treats that suit your pet’s unique needs, adopting a breed-specific food, or being more choosy about which human snacks you share with your animals.
3. Quality Time
While we may be around our pets a lot, taking the time to give them your full attention and experience some quality time together can be deeply rewarding for you both. Not only does it show your pet that you love them, but it’s also an opportunity to step away from the stresses and responsibilities of your day and enjoy the simple pleasures of playing or snuggling with your animal friend.
4. Schedule Exams
Cats, dogs, and other pets need regular checkups to keep them in tip-top shape. While it can be tempting to wait until an issue arises, being proactive is the best way to protect your furry family members from disease or unexpected health problems.
5. DNA Testing
Speaking of being proactive, one of the best things any pet owner can do is get to know more about their animals. Genetic testing can give you details about your canine or feline’s background and parentage, as well as give you valuable insight into which health conditions your pets may experience as they grow older. Your pet’s testing results can even give you a chance to take preventative measures. By implementing DNA-informed lifestyle changes, you can ensure that your dogs and cats have the longest, healthiest lives possible.
Orivet Genetic Pet Care
A leader in genetic testing for dogs and cats, Orivet offers a range of genetic services to owners, breeders, and veterinarians, including screening of genetic diseases, coat colors, traits, parentage confirmation, and much more. Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or a seasoned breeder, Orivet’s at-home testing kits provide a surefire way to better understand your pet’s breeding and lifestyle needs.
To learn more and see the full range of available testing kits, head to orivet.com.