5 Healthy Habits for Pets to Develop

As a new year arrives, we all begin looking for ways to become happier, healthier versions of ourselves. Old habits die hard, but small changes everyday can create a ripple effect. As we set our goals for the upcoming year, why not set a few for our wet-nosed companions too? As members of our family, they deserve optimal health too. After all, they provide all the cuddles, entertainment, companionship and unconditional love that we could ask for.

This year, show your fur baby just how much you love them by introducing a few healthy habits that take their health to the next level. You’ll end up with a healthier pet and a new year filled with healthy, heartfelt memories — and who could say no to that?

Here are five tips to help kick off the new year with a little more love:

1. Establish a healthy, daily routine

Establishing a healthy, daily routine for you and your fur baby will make them feel loved and grow confident. By creating a consistent routine, you’ll form a deeper connection with your fur baby, all while giving them the nose-to-tail care they deserve.

So what does a healthy, daily routine include?

Beyond the basics, every pet has unique needs! Your pet’s daily routine should reflect those needs. You know your best friend best, so trust your instincts as you develop your schedule together.

Most importantly, consistency gives your wet-nosed companion the stability and security they need. If your furbaby is struggling with behavioral challenges, a consistent routine could be the solution you’re searching for.

P.S. Don’t forget to take your own schedule into account. Ask yourself: Is this a resolution I can stick to? Is this sustainable for me? Because the goal isn’t just to set goals, but to actually stick to them.

2. Feed good quality food

We all know it: A healthy diet today is essential for a healthier tomorrow. Feeding your fur baby a complete and balanced diet can translate into longer, happier, healthier lives — and who doesn’t want more quality time with their four-legged family members?

So what makes up healthy pet food?

We understand that there is a lot of information out there, and it can get a bit overwhelming. But, we’re here to help.

Our fur babies rely on us for all their nutrition needs. So, we want to buy food that fuels our fur babies — not just fills them up. You can do this by feeding a nutrient-dense, highly digestible diet.

To take it a bit further, here are a few DOs and DONT's as you consider your pet’s diet.

DO	DON'T
Real meat, poultry or fish as the first ingredient A recipe developed by a veterinarian or nutritionist Antioxidant-rich formulas to help support a healthy immune system Taurine to support heart and eye health A good source of glucosamine to help maintain joint health Balanced calcium and phosphorus for bone and tooth health Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat	Poultry by-products Corn, wheat or soy Added sugars or sweeteners Artificial ingredients

DO	DON'T
✓ Real meat, poultry or fish as the first ingredient ✓ A recipe developed by a veterinarian or nutritionist ✓ Antioxidant-rich formulas to help support a healthy immune system ✓ Taurine to support heart and eye health ✓ A good source of glucosamine to help maintain joint health ✓ Balanced calcium and phosphorus for bone and tooth health ✓ Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat	✘ Poultry by-products ✘ Corn, wheat or soy ✘ Added sugars or sweeteners ✘ Artificial ingredients

DON'T

✓ Real meat, poultry or fish as the first ingredient
✓ A recipe developed by a veterinarian or nutritionist
✓ Antioxidant-rich formulas to help support a healthy immune system
✓ Taurine to support heart and eye health
✓ A good source of glucosamine to help maintain joint health
✓ Balanced calcium and phosphorus for bone and tooth health
✓ Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat

✘ Poultry by-products
✘ Corn, wheat or soy
✘ Added sugars or sweeteners
✘ Artificial ingredients

3. Start purposeful supplementation to protect your fur baby’s health

Proactive pet parenting is the key to a happier, healthier life. Purposeful supplementation is important, because what you do today impacts your fur baby's life tomorrow and for years to come.

Just as we take supplements to fill nutritional gaps in our own diets, purposeful supplementation can do the same for our fur babies.

Here are a few supplements you might start this year:

No matter where you start, purposeful supplementation is a small step that will make a massive impact on your fur baby's well being. That means more wet-nosed kisses, snuggles, cuddles and walks in the park … a lifetime of memories that fuel your soul and warm your heart!

4. Schedule annual vet appointments

Remember: Your fur babies can’t tell you exactly how they feel. So, regular check-ups with your most trusted source is key to help you avoid surprise issues or early diagnoses of others.

Your vet also is also a great resource for pointers that will help your four-legged family members live their healthiest life and even avoid potential medical conditions.

5. Play More!

Playing more is definitely a resolution you can stick to. It’s our favorite healthy pet tip, and it will surely bond you and your fur baby.

Pets need enrichment time — especially cats and dogs. While you’re out and about in the world, our fur babies are often in our homes alone.

Set aside at least 30 minutes of playtime a day. It can be an evening stroll or a simple game of hide and seek … There are a million different ways to connect with your fur baby. Find one your pet responds to best. Then, pencil it into your daily routine.

All in all, show your love!

Ultimately, setting goals with your wet-nosed companions is all about love! It’s about making your pet happier, investing in their long-term health and strengthening your pet-parent bond.

With a little effort, you can make your four-legged family member’s life a whole lot better. Start your new year off on the right foot (or paw).

We know how much you love you fur babies — now go show them!