Pet Pointers: New Year’s resolutions for pet owners
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On Jan. 1, most of us make several New Year’s resolutions that we just never seem to be able to keep.
One of the most common is to start an exercise regime and stick to it. A good idea is to start with a short 10-minute walk every day with your dog for a week and add five minutes each week until you reach thirty minutes. Vary your speed, your route and your rate of difficulty. Don’t worry, most dogs can keep up or you’ll just have to carry them home.
Another good way to start the year is to choose a healthier diet of quality fruits and vegetables for you and a higher quality food for your pets.
Also, get a jump on your schedule. Make all your veterinarian appointments and plan out a year’s worth of Advantage and Heart Guard dosing in your new day planner.
Lots of people promise to quit smoking. A good idea is to pick a day and just do it. Talk to your doctor about ways to make quitting easier. Secondhand smoke can have negative effects on the health of your pet.
One tool that helps me stay focused is keeping a resolution journal, where you track your daily progress and make note of small goals you achieve to keep you going.