Happy new cheer!

It’s time to start the new year and what better way to do it than with a loud and lovely bark, and maybe a howl as well. Okay, and lots of tail wagging. And puppy eyes, big and cute, for all those leftover Christmas pets, treats!

If you’re even a bit as lucky as Vinkel and Koljander, you would have received a pile of treats. A whole lot from grandma (of course), a whole lot from me and a big bunch from friends and family too.

To be honest, their cookie jar is still overflowing. And there’s more in the cupboard… not to mention the chew toys and tennis balls.

Vinkel and Koljander even got to wear their own Christmas decorations.

The weather was stunning and a dip in the swimming pool made it all the more fun. On the note of treats and special outings, have you thought about New Year’s resolutions for your pup?

Cannibidiol (CBD)

Some pet owners are considering starting their dogs on CBD. They might be doing this if their dogs are suffering from energy with walks, experiencing anxiety or suffering from aches and pains. However, always consult your vet first if this is a suitable option for your dog.

Time for a diet audit

This is the perfect time to evaluate when, how much and what your pet is munching. It’s never a good idea to simply guess an amount, which might lead to weight gain.

This also includes the amount and kind of treats you feed your pet. Use a measuring cup and a guide on how much your pet should be eating for its weight, ensuring your pet is receiving the proper amount of food at every meal. Also stick to regular feeding times.

When in doubt, consult your local vet. Your vet will also be able to consult you on the best diet for your pet’s age. Choosing a diet tailored specifically to your pet’s age is a great way to keep them in optimal health.

Become more creative with exercise

Walks and throwing a ball are great forms of exercise, but you might also consider other forms of exercise such as agility training. Take a few classes teaching them new tricks, or even train them for a competition or two. And don’t forget to exercise your dog’s mind!

Puzzle toys are a great way to keep your dog’s mind young and fresh. By allowing them to complete a puzzle, you boost their confidence and keep their bodies and minds active, both of which are critical to healthy aging.

Don’t forget to play with kitty

It’s just as important to bond with your cat, and interactive play is a great way to do this. This also provides them with physical exercise and may reduce behavioural problems. In shyer cats it builds confidence and promotes positive feelings in multi-cat homes.

Playing with your cat can be a session that lasts anywhere from five to 15 minutes, depending on their age.

Time to clean those chompers

Both dogs and cats benefit from teeth brushing and it’s a great thing to establish an at-home dental care routine. This, of course, can be a challenge, so start of slow by brushing your pet’s teeth a few nights a week.

Use a lot of positive reinforcement and be patient. Perhaps even do one side a day initially for your pet to get used to the experience. It’s also of great importance to have your vet give your pet a good teeth cleaning on a regular basis.

A trip to the vet

With that being said, even if your pet appears to be healthy, do not be tempted to skip their annual visit to the vet. This is a key component of good preventative care. All medical conditions are much easier to detect and treat in the early stages of the disease process.

In case of an emergency

Unfortunately, emergencies and accidents happen, therefore it is important to create an emergency pet plan. Especially in the event of an evacuation or natural disaster, it is important to know what to do and how to protect your pet. Create an emergency kit for your pet that contains medicine and medical records.

Again, consult your vet who can help suggests the correct items for your pet’s specific needs.

Paw five! Woof!