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Are you someone who makes New Year’s Resolutions? What about New Year’s Resolutions for your pet?
As we usher in 2025, it’s the perfect time to refresh your pet care routine. New Year’s resolutions aren’t just for humans—they can benefit our four-legged friends too! Here are seven New Year’s resolutions to set your pet up for a healthy, happy year.
1. Take More Walks in 2025
Exercise is crucial for both humans and pets, and walking is an easy way to get moving. But in 2025, why not spice things up? Try a new route, explore different parks, or even join a local dog walking group to make it social! Walking helps maintain a healthy weight, reduces stress, and improves overall well-being for you and your dog.
Of course, longer walks will expend the most energy, but even short jaunts are better than nothing. If you’re short on time, try quick, ten-minute energetic walks before work or in the evening. A pet sitter or professional dog walker (like us) can help ensure your dog gets the daily exercise they need if you’re away.
2. Measure Their Food
When feeding pets, it’s common to say “one scoop” or “half a bowl.” Portion control is key to maintaining your pet’s health and preventing weight gain. Invest in a kitchen food scale or dedicated pet measuring cups to ensure you feed your pet the right amount. With weight management becoming a more significant concern for pets, consistency is crucial.
Talk to your vet for guidelines for your pet’s breed and lifestyle, and ensure all family members who feed your pet are on the same page. Your pet’s food bag will also have a feeding guide on the back to give you an idea of where to start.
3. Review Your Pet’s Diet
2025 is the perfect time to reassess your pet’s diet. A lot can change in a year, from their activity level to potential allergies or sensitivities. Please work with your veterinarian to ensure their food provides the proper nutrients for their age, breed, and health conditions. Don’t forget about healthy treats! Also, consider incorporating supplements for joint health or coat condition as your pet ages.
Here are some things you should consider when deciding what your pet eats:
- Your pet’s life stage (puppy, kitten, adult, senior)
- Allergies
- Medical needs
- Quality of the food
- Pet’s preference
- Your pet’s weight
- Is your pup gulping her food down in record time? Consider looking into puzzle feeders if so.
If you’re unsure, consider newer options, such as Fresh Pet food delivery services, which have grown in popularity and offer customized pet meals. As the new year starts, take this opportunity to review how your pet looks, feels, and what she needs, and always consult with your veterinarian if you have questions or concerns.
4. Keep Up with Preventative Care
Preventative care has always been the cornerstone of pet health. Ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and annual wellness exams. With the rise of telehealth options, some pet health consultations can be done virtually, making getting your pet the care they need easier.
Recommended preventive care will vary based on your pet’s species, age, and location, but in our service area, it typically includes flea and tick prevention, dental care (both at home and with your veterinarian), HeartGuard, vaccinations, and semiannual wellness checkups.
Keep an eye out for newer treatments and preventive products available in 2025 that might better suit your pet’s needs. Regular dental care, flea/tick prevention, and heartworm treatment are all key to a long, healthy life.
5. Never Stop Learning (Brain Games for 2025)
Training isn’t just for puppies—any pet at any age can benefit from new mental challenges. This year, expand their repertoire beyond basic obedience. Try advanced training, agility courses, certifications to earn from the American Kennel Club, or new brain games that stimulate problem-solving. Puzzle toys, training apps, and even dog obedience classes can help keep your pet mentally sharp and engaged.
Check out local training centers, which offer interactive classes that combine fun and learning in new ways. Don’t be afraid to go outside and play with your dog or have fun inside if the weather won’t cooperate!
6. Wash Their Dishes
When is the last time you washed your pet’s dishes? If not cleaned regularly, your pet’s food and water bowls are a breeding ground for bacteria. Make it a habit to wash their dishes daily or at least every other day. Consider switching to stainless steel or ceramic bowls, which are easier to clean and less likely to harbor bacteria compared to plastic.
Ask yourself this: who wants to eat out of a grimy dish?! No one!
7. Spend Quality Time Together
Life can get hectic, but one of the most important resolutions is spending more quality time with your pet. Those moments together are irreplaceable, whether snuggling on the couch, taking longer walks, or indulging in some playtime. In 2025, try a new activity with your pet, like training them for a dog sport, trying out pet yoga (yes, really!), or even going on a pet-friendly vacation.
The bond you share with your pet is priceless—so take every opportunity to cherish it. Your pet will love you for it, and you’ll be a happy, satisfied pet parent.
These are just a few New Year’s Resolutions For Your Pet.
The possibilities for a happy and healthy 2025 are truly endless. Whether it’s long walks, ongoing training, extra snuggles, or reevaluating your pet’s diet, every step you take sets the stage for a brighter future together. Remember, any effort to improve both your life and your pet’s well-being is a resolution worth celebrating—and we applaud you for it!
To learn how RCO Pet Care’s team of professional pet sitters can help you and your pets achieve your New Year’s Resolutions, check out our services, contact us, or call us at (203) 641-2428.
Happy New Year!
Jessica graduated magna cum laude with her Bachelor’s of Science in Animal Science from the University of Connecticut in 2015. Her animal-centered coursework here included courses in animal behavior, health and disease management, anatomy and physiology, basic through advanced nutrition and feeding, genetics, comparative exercise physiology, endocrinology, reproductive physiology and equine science.
Her resume also boasts hands-on work experience managing horse farms, working with animals ranging from prairie dogs and bison to South American Primates at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, as well as care, training and management of domestic animals from hamsters to cows.
Outside of RCO, Jessica is the dog mom of five (Rocco, Luna, Owl, River and Peanut), enjoys reading, walking and training her own dogs, visiting Disney World and pursuing further educational opportunities.
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