Time to set new goals, not just for us, but for our pets too. We have 356 days ahead, giving us plenty of time to develop healthier habits and come up with fun ways to reach our goals.

In order to come up with a list of resolutions, you will need to know what makes you and your pet happy and what would add value to your lives? It may not be practical to put a resolution in place that may not be achievable.

Below are some resolution ideas from the Petinsurance.com.au team to give you ideas of what your New Year’s resolutions could look like:

#1 Try something new

Pets love new adventures and what a great way to incorporate exercise, whether it is doggy yoga, kayaking or whatever makes you happy. You may want to take your pet with you next time you do one of these exciting adventures and see how fitter you both become whilst having fun and challenging yourselves.

#2 Upskill yourself

We know that veterinarians are the experts when it comes to looking after your pet, but it is important to at least know the basics of pet first aid in case your dog eats something they shouldn’t, or your cat cuts their paw. Investigate local places within your area where you can get the basic pet first aid training for emergencies where no professional medical help is available immediately.

#3 Improve your pet’s training

Having a pet that is well trained, obedient, happy, relaxed, and responsive means that not only are you able to manage them easier, but you will also get more pleasure from being a pet owner, which could potentially strengthen your bond that you have with your pet.

#4 More fun time

Make sure that you make time in your busy day for playtime. There are so many fun things to do inside or outside your home. Even if it is just for a short period every day, it’s worth it! Although playtimes may not be the same for your dog and cat, they will both still love spending time with you. Try out a laser toy and see how they love chasing after it, great entertainment for both you and them!

#5 Check their ID

Make sure that your pet’s ID information is updated and intact. Especially if you are increasing your activity and planning on spending more time outside of your home. You want to make sure that you pet will get home safe in the event when they are getting too excited and make a run for it.

#6 Out with the old

Just like that you are clearing out your cupboards. Have a good look at their toys and accessories and decide what can be thrown out. No need holding on to tatty, old, and probably germ-infested toys. Throw them out! Besides, we are sure are couple of new ones were sitting under the Christmas tree!

#7 Spruce up your space

Your pet spends a lot of time in your home and your garden. No time like the present to double check that there is nothing that could harm them. Check inside the home for any harmful substances and make sure that they are out of reach. If you are feeling up for a challenge, you may want to transform some of your spaces outside into play spaces for your pet.

#8 Regular check ins

Make sure to do frequent wellness checks. Prevention is better than cure, so touch base with your vet on a regular basis to make sure you have a finger on the pulse, excuse the pun!

#9 Pay it forward

If community service is something you enjoy, why not spend a few hours a month at a community shelter. You can spend some time with the animals, taking them for walks, giving them some much needed love or donate some of your pet’s beds, towels, or food to a less fortunately furry friend.

#10 Grooming is key

It’s a New Year, you and your pet will need to look the part. To ensure you have less of your pet on your clothes and furniture, ensure that you have regular grooming sessions. Grooming is good for your pet’s fur as it distributes oils from the skin to the fur which keeps their coat shiny and healthy. Don’t you want to wear that black number on a night out without taking half of your pet with you?

If you like planning and setting timelines to your goals to ensure you reach them, this is a perfect opportunity to create your New Year’s resolution plan. It doesn’t have to be a formal plan. Make it fun! Plot your resolutions on a calendar and put it somewhere you don’t forget about it. Also, nothing beats roping a friend in to keep you accountable. If your friend has a pet, they might even decide to take on the same resolutions.

Our own health and our pet’s heath is such an important part of our lives, so no time like the present to implement some changes. You can do it!