New Year's Resolutions for Responsible Pet Owners

By Tamara L. Waters

Every year, folks ring in the New Year with a few resolutions – those good intentions they have for the coming year. As a responsible pet owner, you can make resolutions for the New Year and plan to make your pet's life better. Here are a few resolutions that you might want to make for the sake of your pets.

I resolve to play with my pet more often. While your dog or cat might love special treats, more than anything they probably love playing with you. Resolve to set aside time each day just to play. Whether it's a rousing game of fetch or some fun with a ball of yarn, your pet will enjoy playtime with you.

I resolve to learn from my pet. There is so much we can learn from our pets. They can teach us valuable lessons about living well and loving every part of our lives. RPO Blog Editor Julia Williams has a great article about lessons learned from cats.

I resolve to slow down. Just as we learn so much from our pets, we all need to learn the importance of slowing down. We hurry through our days and ultimately our lives, rushing to get through the day and on to the next. Slowing down to follow the examples set by our pets is a great way to live life – savoring each moment.

I resolve to feed my pet well. Because we love our pets, feeding them good, nutritious food – like CANIDAE and FELIDAE is one way we can show them how much we care.

I resolve to exercise my pet regularly. We always have good intentions, but helping your pet exercise regularly is a great resolution. If you've found yourself short on time and unable to keep up with regular walks and exercise, start the New Year right with a resolution to make it a priority in the coming year.

I resolve to show my pet love and affection often. Just as we get busy rushing to and fro, to work, school and activities, sometimes we can get caught up and forget to show our pet how much we care. Make the effort to take the time. A little love and affection goes a long way, so resolve to make time for belly scratches, back rubs and ear scratches.

I resolve to get regular veterinary care for my pet. With the coming New Year, make a resolution to plan for regular checkups for your pet. Make a plan to put aside money to help with the financial burden of veterinary care, but try to make it a priority, for your pet's sake.

Making New Year resolutions is a great start and is easy, but keeping them is the hard part. Write down your resolutions and keep them handy somewhere – on a bulletin board or even your fridge. Keep them posted somewhere that you can see them often so they will stay fresh in your mind.

The important thing is trying to keep the resolutions. Not only will you have the personal satisfaction of keeping your resolutions, but you can feel gratified that you are doing the best you can for your pet. Your pet will enjoy what you are able to do for him, and you can be proud that you are working hard to be the best responsible pet owner you can be.

Photo by Claudio Matsuoka

Read more articles by Tamara L. Waters