New Year: Time to Reset with Your Pet
The holidays came and went like a flash. One day you were baking cookies and setting the table for 15 family members while trying to ensure your pet didn’t get into anything dangerous. Now the chaos is over, and the new year has begun. It’s time to get your pet back on track with a regular routine.
“To help your pet readjust, get back to their normal feeding and exercise schedule as soon as possible,” according to the article, “Post-Holiday Pet Care: How to Help Your Pet Recover from the Festivities” at Healthy Paws. “Consistency is key, and gradually reintroducing their usual activities can help them settle back into a comfortable rhythm.”
If your pet ate more indulgent treats over the holidays, be sure to get him back on his regular diet. With all the commotion, you may have missed some physical activity with your pet, so get back to playtime and longer walks. “Start with shorter walks or light play sessions, and gradually build up to their regular routine,” the article said.
The new year is also the perfect time to schedule your pet’s yearly wellness exam as well as dental cleaning. Ensure your pet has his parasite preventive medications as well, according to the article, “10 New Year’s Resolutions for Pet Parents,” at petMD.com.
Along with exercise, add in some important enrichment time for your pet. “Exercise and enrichment are closely related, and enrichment isn’t just about keeping your pet busy—it’s about proper mental stimulation and encouraging natural behaviors,” the petMD article said. Puzzle toys are great for dogs and cat trees work for cats.
The sooner you get back to your regular routine, you will find that you and your pet will feel much more comfortable and ready to take on the new year.
Take a Walk, or a Hike with Your Dog!
Physical activity is not just important for humans, it’s also important for your dog. With the beautiful Arizona weather this time of year, there’s no excuse to stay indoors. Get outside and take your dog for that long walk or hike.
“With a little preparation, hiking with your dog can be a fun activity for both you and your furry friend,” according to the article, “How To Hike With Your Dog Safely” at petMD.com. “Those long walks give the two of you a chance to bond, explore the great outdoors, and get some much-needed exercise and mental stimulation.”
When hiking, it’s important that you do it in a dog-friendly way and put you and your dog’s safety first. Keep your dog’s health in mind and consider breed and age. According to the article, remember to:
• Find a dog-friendly hike.
• Protect your dog by ensuring she is microchipped and wearing ID tags.
• Bring along the correct dog hiking products (water and bowl, leash and harness, food and treats).
• Keep your dog on a leash.
• Be mindful of the heat.
If your dog isn’t the hiking type, a nice extra long walk is also a great way to get lots of exercise. Take a different route than usual, let your dog sniff, and take in the sights.
Another great option for exercise is Doggie Day Care at Second Home Pet Resort. It’s a great way for dogs who play well with others to spend play time with other dogs in a 1,000-square-foot dog Activity Center. Dogs can also enjoy physical activity in more than one acre of play yards that feature dog-friendly playground equipment. Dogs who participate must be spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and take a 20-minute pre-assessment. Call to find out more about Second Home’s requirements for Doggie Day Care.
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