New Year, New Pawsolutions
Fun and Healthy Resolutions to Make With Your Pet
New Year’s resolutions are not just for humans. Your pets can be part of them too. Setting simple goals with your dog or cat is a great way to strengthen your bond, support physical and mental health, and create routines you can actually enjoy together. Whether you want to move more, focus on wellness, or simply spend more quality time together, the new year is a perfect opportunity to start.
A Healthier Year From Nose to Tail
Just like people, pets thrive when their basic needs are consistently met. A healthy year includes nutritious food, regular movement, fresh water, mental stimulation, and preventive care. The new year is a great time to recommit to:
• Balanced nutrition
• Consistent exercise
• Mental enrichment
• Dental care
• Routine veterinary visits
Regular wellness exams with your veterinarian are one of the most important steps you can take to help your pet stay healthy and comfortable all year long.
Move More Together
Exercise benefits everyone in the household. For pets, it supports healthy weight, joint health, and emotional wellbeing.
For dogs, consider setting a goal to walk or hike together at least once a week. Even a relaxed walk provides physical exercise and valuable mental enrichment through new sightsand smells. Many dogs also benefit from a daily thirty-minute walk, and if you already enjoy running, you can gradually work up to jogging together.
For cats, daily movement is just as important. Aim for at least ten minutes of interactive play each day. Wand toys and ribbons can be very engaging, but always supervise play to prevent accidental ingestion.
Do Not Forget Mental Enrichment
Physical activity is important, but mental stimulation plays a huge role in your pet’s overall wellbeing.
Cats enjoy activities that mimic hunting. Try hiding treats or toys around the house to encourage exploration and problem solving.
Dogs benefit from puzzle feeders and treat dispensing toys that challenge their brains. You can even track how long it takes them to solve a puzzle and set small goals to improve over time.
Learn Something New Together
Training is a wonderful way to keep your pet mentally engaged while strengthening your relationship. Yes, cats can be trained too.
You might set a goal to learn a few new tricks together over the year, or focus on practical skills such as coming when called or greeting people calmly instead of jumping. Even short training sessions can make a big difference.
Encourage Better Hydration
Drinking enough water is important for pets of all ages.
Make sure fresh water is always available and clean. Ceramic or stainless steel bowls tend to be the least irritating for skin. Some pets prefer elevated bowls, while others drink more readily from water fountains that keep water moving.
Smile-Worthy Dental Health
Dental health affects much more than your pet’s mouth. Healthy teeth support heart, kidney, and overall health.
This year, consider working toward regular tooth brushing, even if that starts slowly. Dental wipes and toothbrush kits can make the process easier and more comfortable for both you and your pet. You can explore helpful dental care products through our online pharmacy:
Healthy teeth truly support a healthier body.
Supporting a Healthier Weight
If your veterinarian has mentioned concerns about your pet’s weight, the new year can be a great time to make gradual, sustainable changes.
Limiting treats and feeding measured portions is often the first step. If weight loss remains difficult, prescription diets may be recommended. Brands such as Purina Pro Plan, Hill’s Science Diet, and Royal Canin offer veterinary-supported options that can be conveniently ordered through our online pharmacy:
Purina Pro Plan OM Feline Formula – dry
Goals Can Be Just Plain Fun
Not every resolution needs to focus on improvement. Some goals are simply about enjoying life together.
You might plan a photoshoot, explore a new park, or make a special trip to a pet store. These moments create memories and strengthen your bond in ways that matter just as much as any wellness goal.
The best New Year’s resolutions are the ones you can stick with and genuinely enjoy. Sharing them with your pet makes them even more meaningful. Whether you are moving more, learning new skills, or planning simple adventures, these shared experiences support a happier, healthier year for both of you.
Here’s to a year filled with companionship, comfort, and many moments worth remembering.
