Based on an article that first appeared at

The New Year is a time to reflect on the past year, and also to set goals to improve your life for the new year ahead. Same should go for the life of your pet! Here are some resolution worthy goals to set for your dog or cat in 2017.

#1 Pet Weight Loss

  • It is important to measure food & count calories for your pet's daily meals.
  • Most weight loss requires a 25-40% drop in daily calories.
  • For dogs, you can add non-starchy veggies to their diet.
  • Exercise will preserve muscle mass during weight loss & may even increase pet's metabolic rate.

#2 More Walks

  • Dogs need to be walked daily. A tired dog equals a happy dog & a happy owner!
  • Most breeds need a minimum of 1 hour per day.
  • If you don't' have time, hire a professional to get the "zoomies" out of your dog.

#3 Teach an Old Dog New Tricks

  • Stimulating your dog's mind & challenging him is one of the keys to fulfillment.
  • Just like humans, your dog can learn new behaviors and skills throughout their life.
  • Take a class & learn something new!
  • Puppies can start at 8-9 weeks of age, then more advanced classes in their teen years.

#4 More Playtime

  • Play time can give more opportunities to challenge your pet, enrich their lives, and establish an even deeper bond.
  • For your cat: Try interactive play with laser pointers, feather teasers, & catnip to encourage play.
  • Fun game with your dog: Rub the scent of a treat in various places and then hide it. It encourages them to problem solve and builds confidence too!

#5 Try a New Activity with Your Dog

  • Take a walk to a local dog bakery, or shop that sells special dog treats.
  • Take a boat ride: rent a kayak, sail or speed boat & cruise around with your pup!
  • Try aquatic training: your pup will learn to enjoy the water & potentially take home prizes for their ability to jump, retrieve and swim.
  • Take a hike! :

#6 Brush Your Pet's Teeth

  • Dental disease affects nearly 85% of dogs and cats over 3 years of age, and has significant health consequences.
  • Ideally, you should be brushing your dog or cat's teeth daily.

#7 Visit Your Vet

  • Younger pets should be coming in for an exam annually.
  • Pets 5-10 years old (depending on their breed) should be coming in bi-annually.
  • Bringing them in for their regular will help catch potential health issues, some before they become a serious problem.