Hello 2107! Like many, you probably have some pretty exciting goals set for yourself for this new year. Goals to eat right, get healthier, get that promotion or even start your own business. New years resolutions can not only better yourself but by making a few small goals for your furry friends you can greatly add to the quality of life and happiness of your pet. Check out these five great resolutions for your Frenchie!
Eat Right
Many owners “eyeball” their dog’s daily intake and pour that into a bowl, usually resulting in overfeeding and weight 
gain. It’s important to use a measuring cup to ensure your dog isn’t taking in more calories than they need. The recommended feeding guidelines on the bag or from your vet are good place to start to figure out how much food Fido really needs.
Growing dogs have very specific nutrient requirements to ensure their bodies grow healthy and strong. For example, some senior dogs may have lower energy requirements, but have other medical issues like degenerative joint disease that may be helped with the appropriate food. Choosing a food specifically tailored to your dog’s life stage is a great way to keep them in optimal health. Again your personal vet is a great resource in finding out which type of food your dog should be eating.
Work It!
Trying a new workout routine yourself this year? Why not include your pup? From doga to hiking, skijoring to kayaking, it’s easier than ever for people to incorporate their dog into a new exercise routine. It’s a great way to bond, it’ll get you both out of the house, and both owner and dog will reap the rewards of a healthy physical activity. Meet-up groups are a great way to find like-minded dog owners to join you in your exercise, too!
Primped and Pampered
Make it your goal to brush your pet every day! Brushing your pet serves many purposes. It removes excess fur from the coat, reducing the amount you find on your clothes and furniture. It helps distribute oils from the skin to the fur, keeping the coat shiny and healthy. Lastly, daily grooming is a bonding activity that demonstrates to your pet how much you love them by taking care of them in a very soothing manner.
New Year, New Tricks
Studies show that keeping your pet’s brain active can actually make it healthier! Teaching your pet new tricks and practicing those they already know are a great way to keep those neurons firing. Puzzle feeders, which force a pet to think through a task in order to be rewarded with a treat, are also an excellent way to keep a pet’s mind engaged.
Bling Bling
Chances are your pet could use a shiny new ID tag and collar. Over the course of a year, a lot can change — people move, get new phone numbers, and forget to update their pet’s tags. Often they only remember once the pet is lost. If any of your contact information has changed in 2016, don’t wait — update their tags and microchip information today! It’s the best way to ensure a lost pet makes their way safely home.
We hope you’ve enjoyed these fun, practical and healthy resolutions that you can make together with your dog. May 2017 bring you even closer together, building memories to last a lifetime! Happy new year to all!
