New Year’s resolutions are not just for people. Pets can be part of them too. Setting small, realistic goals with your dog or cat is a great way to strengthen your bond, support overall health, and create routines you can actually stick with throughout the year. Whether your goal is to move more, focus on wellness, or simply spend more quality time together, the new year is a great place to start.

A Healthier Year From Nose to Tail

Pets thrive when their basic needs are met consistently. A healthy year includes nutritious food, regular movement, fresh water, mental stimulation, and preventive care. The start of the year is a good 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 year-round.

Move More Together

Exercise supports physical health, weight management, and emotional wellbeing for pets and people alike.

For dogs, consider setting a goal to walk or explore outdoors together at least once a week. Even a relaxed walk provides physical exercise and valuable mental enrichment through new sights and 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

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity.

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 keep things

engaging.

Learn Something New Together

Training helps keep pets mentally engaged and strengthens the bond you share.

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, consistent training sessions can make a meaningful difference.

Encourage Better Hydration

Hydration plays an important role in your pet’s overall health.

Make sure fresh water is always available. Ceramic or stainless steel bowls tend to be the least irritating for skin. Some pets drink more comfortably from elevated bowls, while others prefer water fountains that keep water moving and fresh.

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 means starting slowly. Dental wipes and toothbrush kits can help make the process easier and more comfortable for both you and your pet. Helpful dental care products are available through our online pharmacy:

C.E.T. Oral Hygiene Kit for Cats & Dogs

C.E.T. Fingerbrush for Cats & Dogs

Vetradent Dental Wipes for Cats & Dogs

Healthy teeth support a healthier body.

Supporting a Healthier Weight

If your veterinarian has mentioned concerns about your pet’s weight, the new year is a great time to make gradual, sustainable changes.

Limiting treats and feeding measured portions is often the first step. If weight loss remains challenging, your veterinarian may recommend a prescription diet. 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:

Hill’s Prescription Diet Metabolic – Dog Food

Hill’s Prescription Diet Metabolic Advanced Weight Solution – Cat Treat

Hill’s Prescription Diet Metabolic Advanced Weight Solution – Dog Treat

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 time together.

You might plan a photoshoot, visit a new park, or make a special trip to a pet store. These moments help strengthen your bond and create memories you will appreciate long after the year ends.

The best New Year’s resolutions are the ones you can realistically maintain and 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 goals support a happier, healthier year for both of you.

Here’s to a year filled with companionship, comfort, and many moments worth remembering.