Well, 2020, you have been REAL, but we can’t say that we are sorry to see you go… Thanks for the tough lessons but now it’s time to level up and set ourselves and (most importantly) our dogs up for success in 2021! Getting intentional about how you can improve your dog’s quality of life, increase their day to day enjoyment, and strengthen your relationship is what it’s all about as we head into the New Year. So how the heck do you set resolutions for your dog you ask? Not to worry! We have broken down 5 pawesome New Year’s resolutions for your dog and given you ways to follow through to make them happen all year long.
1. Exercise 5 Times A Week
Whether your pup could stand to lose a few pounds, or you just want to improve their overall health increasing the amount of exercise your dog receives is the way to go! Exercise outside of the home provides mental stimulation, helps to maintain a healthy digestive and circulatory system, and makes them a happier more well-rounded pup. Tired of the same old walking routine with your dog? Try spicing up your exercise schedule with one of these:
- Go for a hike
- Bring them along on a leisurely bike ride
- Head to the beach for a swim
- Play Fetch
- Give skating a try (Inline skating, rollerblading, or skateboarding)
Dog getting an annual vet exam
2. Schedule Annual Physical
Our pets can’t talk (well not in English anyway) to let us know that their teeth are bothering them or that their hips are aching. Fortunately, having your pet seen for an annual exam helps to identify those hard to detect issues and so much more. In a nose to tail exam a vet will be able to detect small problems before they escalate and become serious issues. When health issues are caught early they are often easier to resolve, less expensive, and allow your pet to avoid any intense pain that may have come with late detection. Everything from eyes and skin to vital organs such as the kidneys, liver, and heart will be checked at their appointment. Aside from the full physical exam there are also a few other perks to having your pet seen by a veterinarian.
- Nail clipping by a pro (you may have to ask)
- Up to date on Rabies and other vaccines (required for a License)
- Set up on heartworm prevention
- Updated flea and tick treatment for the year
- Microchipping (discuss your options)
Having an annual physical is the way to go. Keep your pet’s health first and schedule their appointment with your local vet today.
3. More Playdates, Please!
Socialization for our pups is a key component to a happy life. Just because our dog gets to see us every day (sometimes all day) does not mean they are being fulfilled socially. Playtime with other dogs is important to giving them a well-rounded personality and life. Playdates are more than great exercise; they teach our pups how to behave in public, providing far more mental stimulation than just snuggling on the couch every night. Socialization will boost your dog’s confidence with each new interaction. Enjoy having people over? By exposing them to other people, places, and dogs they will be better behaved when you have parties or friends and family over to the house. Here are 5 examples of playdates for your pup:
- Go for a walk with a human friend
- Doggy Daycare!
- Meet up with a friend and their dog on the beach or at a local trail (click here or here to find dog-friendly trails in Plymouth, MA)
- Hit the dog park
- Enjoy dinner at an outdoor, pet friendly restaurant
All this socialization will make your dog well adjusted for most any situation.
Group dog training
4. Join A Class/ Activity Group
We all enjoy learning a new skill or joining a hobby group like a book club or knitting group. Why not give your dog the same opportunity to expand their abilities or practice something they enjoy in a group setting? Many dogs enjoy the challenge of training not to mention the bonding time gained. Experts also recommend a training refresher course every 2 years. Here are 3 pawesome opportunities to develop a new skill or enjoy some of their favorite activities in 2021.
- Enroll in a weekly hiking group. Just Around the Corner offers group hiking up to 5 days a week Monday-Friday in Plymouth, MA. Now accepting new hiking clients.
- Obedience training. Whatever their skill level in the training department there is a class that can help your dog grow and thrive.
- Swim class. If your dog enjoys the water have them attend a class that allows them to enjoy it in the best way for them such as dock diving, water rescue training, or swim lessons.
5. Increase Bonding
We all have those relationships in our lives that we work to make a priority day in and day out. The relationship with our pets is one that should go at the top of that list. Much like a spouse, when the bond of a dog and their owner is strong the whole household runs smoother, am I right? Try these 7 tips to grow your bond and strengthen the relationship you have with your pet.
- Remain Calm: Breathe, speak softly, avoid sharp movements and yelling.
- Physical Affection: Belly rubs, booty scratches, ear massage, add your pet’s favorite spot!
- Do things together: Go for a walk downtown, grab an ice cream, take a drive.
- Communicate Clearly: Give directions they understand and only give one command at a time.
- Special treatment: add some extra love to their food with something delicious and dog safe.
- Learn more about them: Take note of what they like/dislike, activities they enjoy, and where they feel most comfortable.
- Educate yourself: Spend some time learning more about your dog’s breed(s) to know the best ways to exercise, groom and take care of them.
Dog paw and human hand
Pets are part of the family and we believe in treating them like family. Take some time to choose and set a few of our 5 New Year’s resolutions for your dog. Not only will these resolutions benefit your pup they will positively impact your entire household. When every member of the family is at their best and being appreciated for all they bring to the table 2021 cannot be anything but great!
Ensure that your pets are taken care of this holiday season with Just Around the Corner. Just Around the Corner offers pet care of all kinds, including daily Dog Walking , Dog Hiking, and Pet Sitting in Plymouth, MA. To learn more about how Just Around the Corner can help, check out our Services Page. You can also Contact Us for more information. Be sure to Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Instagram!
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