Make 2022 a year you and your pup won’t forget with resolutions you’ll actually enjoy keeping.
Well, what a year it’s been. Some hints of normal, but oh-so-much abnormal. Thank goodness our dogs bring us comfort and companionship while the world waits to get back on track.
With a new year come new resolutions. Lose weight, join a gym, eat better, be more social, see our doctors…these are all common (and healthy) things to strive for.
Believe it or not, the same resolutions we make for ourselves apply to our dogs. And hey, maybe your four-legged friend can motivate you as much as you motivate her. Two are stronger than one, after all.
So aim high with your pup, and join our resolutions for an amazing 2022:
Make Exercise Fun Again
Break out of the same walk, the same time, and the same route. Just as we need diverse physical activities, your dog will appreciate you mixing things up. Explore the countless trails Vancouver has to offer. Sniff out new dog parks. Try out different toys, agility parks, and maybe even get silly and play hide-and-seek. You just might shed a few pounds yourself.
Want to find dog-friendly hikes and parks in your area? Download the free PawSwap app today!
Eat Healthier
Statistics say that over 50% of our dogs are overweight and even obese. It will pay off in the long run to cut out treats with sugar, salt, and preservatives. Pay the extra for a vet-approved brand of food, and measure out the same amount of supper every feeding time instead of eyeballing it.
Make Homemade Meals and Treats
If your resolution is to eat at home more, why not carry that over to the pooch and prepare his meals too? There are endless recipes online that use healthy foods like peanut butter and pumpkin, and baking nutritious treats can be rewarding on many levels. You will always know what your dog is eating, and that’s a good feeling.
Drink More Water
We need 8 glasses a day. Our pets require 0.5-1 oz per doggie pound. Ensure there is always fresh, clean, and cool water around. And if it’s still a chore to get your dog to lap up liquid, water-rich foods like watermelon and cucumber do just fine.
Take a Class
Go ahead, sign up for those art lessons or join that cycling club. But don’t forget there are fantastic classes that will keep your dog engaged too. Agility training, obedience courses, swimming lessons…your pup will thank you for it.
Book an Annual Wellness Check
This goes for both of you. In January, book ahead for a doctor/vet to check under both your hoods. As far as Rover goes, you’ll want to get blood work done, update any shots, and make sure his coat, ears, and eyes are all in check. A doggie lollypop afterward will be well-deserved.
Brush Those Teeth
Taking care of those chompers is crucial to avoid both a dog’s pain and your pain with steep dental bills. Some vets encourage parents to brush a dog’s teeth every day, but we all know that rarely gets done. Start with once or twice a week, and look into dental chews and teeth toys. Plaque builds up after only 24 hours of eating!
Give Back
To be more philanthropic is a noble and common New Year’s Resolution. So just go for it - the dog world needs you! Donate to a shelter. Volunteer your time. Check out a doggie food bank. And if you’re in the market, adopt a dog in need - especially a sweet senior who will give you constant, unconditional love.
Plan for the Unknown
It’s important to sock away some funds for unforeseen vet visits or accidents. That small action alone avoids seeing more dogs given away to shelters. Also, prepare for emergencies like floods and fires, by having a disaster-preparedness kit for you and your dog ready to grab. Fill it with food, water, a bowl, a leash, a blanket, and a first aid kit.
Shop Local
After driving by that little mom-and-pop pet store all year, make a point in 2022 to stop in. Not only are you supporting a small business, you will discover cool new foods and toys, as well as get the attention and knowledge of a small staff that really cares.
Smile and Laugh
Life is too short to stress. Get out there with your puppy and have a joyous year full of pats, cuddles, and adventure. Dogs make the world a better place, so let’s wag our tails to the fullest in 2022!