It's a new year, which means it's a perfect time to reflect on the special bond you and your pet share. You love your pet. And they love you! Pets are treasured members of our families, so it just makes good sense to consider the year ahead and plan ways to help your pet stay in tip-top shape! Read on for 8 simple ways you can make your pet's life even better.

1. See your home through your pet's eyes.

From plants that may be toxic to household cleaners that could make them sick, trash containers out in the open, or medications within their reach, many of the things we don't think twice about can be a real problem for pets. Take a moment to consider your home from your pet's perspective and you'll likely find all sorts of ways to remove potential hazards and keep your four-legged family member safe from their own curiosity.

2. Go outside with your dog on walks - it's good exercise for both of you!

If you're like many pet owners, your dog's daily exercise is probably limited to a quick walk through the neighborhood. Consider making time for longer walks and play sessions. If you can't, try hiring a dog walker or finding a doggy daycare in your area. Not only will your pet enjoy more time outdoors or being engaged in activity, you'll be boosting their fitness levels too!

3. Get rid of that extra weight!

If your pet is overweight, it's not just an aesthetic problem. Extra pounds put pets at risk for all sorts of serious conditions like arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and other significant illnesses. If you think your pet may be overweight, schedule an appointment with us to check them out. We'll work together to set a reasonable goal for their weight loss.

4. Brush your dog or cat's teeth regularly.

If you don't already brush your pet's teeth, now is a good time to start! Just as with humans, it only takes a few minutes each day and can help stop more advanced and complicated problems from developing.

Scheduling a professional cleaning with us will help us assess their dental health below the gum line, as well as what we can see when examining their mouth. Did you know that treating dental disease in its earliest stages not only helps keep your pet healthy, but is more economical than treating advanced dental disease? It literally makes "cents" to stay on top of your pet's dental health.

As your pet's veterinarian, we can also advise on dental treats, chews and rinses that will keep your pet's mouth bright, healthy and smelling fresh.

5. Frequently clean food and water dishes that may be harboring bacteria.

If you notice slime (biofilm), cloudy or otherwise discolored water, or if food is left in the dish overnight, chances are good that bacteria is growing there. This can make your pet severely ill. Daily cleanings of their dishes followed by disinfecting in the dishwasher once a week will help them avoid this hazard.

6. Give them food that is appropriate to their age/weight/health needs.

Each year of a pet's life brings special needs and concerns so it's important to consider their age, weight, and health needs as you choose the best food for them. Unfortunately, there is so much marketing directed at pet owners about which foods to choose, it can be complex and overwhelming. We're here to help you navigate the options and find food options that are best for your pet.

7. Schedule your pet's wellness exam.

From vaccines to preventive medicine and parasite prevention to guide your pet's journey as your pet ages, a wellness exam is a great way to keep your pet healthy and on track. We can help you learn more about their needs as they age, find ways to help them live longer and healthier lives, and identify problems in their earliest stages.

8. Spend more time with your pet.

Spending time with our pets is such a gift - why not commit to more of it? Not only will you make your pet happier, but it's a great way to stay connected and strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Have a happy 2022!

We hope you have a wonderful and healthy year ahead. We are here to help guide your pet's journey in health and wellbeing, and we look forward to seeing you at our next visit!