Get active

A more active lifestyle is on everyone’s list of New Year’s resolutions. For pets, exercise and stimulation are essential to their overall wellbeing and health. If you are a cat owner, set aside 20 minutes a day to play with their favourite toys. Special Species animals, such as rabbits or guinea pigs, need daily time outside of their cage for exercise and play.

Dog owners should keep up the walks, especially during the winter months when you feel like hibernating instead. Your dog needs daily exercise to not only keep them fit, but also mentally stimulated. Click here for tips on how to keep your dog safe from frostbite during winter walks.

Giving your pet lots of opportunities to be active is vital to their health – and yours!

Learn something new

While you’re learning a new language or taking an online course, why not set some fun goals for you and your pet as well? 

From “sit” and “stay” to more complex behavioural change, the process of learning new skills is a wonderful way to bond with your pet. Toronto Humane Society is currently providing one-on-one training services in person and outdoors for group classes. Virtual classes, designed to recreate a group setting from the comfort of your home, are also being offered.  

Practice self-care 

Self-care can include clipping nails, bathing, brushing and dental care. Dental care and disease prevention is often overlooked when it comes to our pets. When untreated, dental disease can lead to much more serious and painful complications, such as infections, jaw fractures, or tooth root abscesses. Routine grooming using a fear-free approach is important for your pet’s physical and mental health.  

Eat healthier

A healthy and balanced diet is as important for your pet as it is for you. Healthy diets can range depending on your pet’s breed, age, and activity levels. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association’s nutrition guides for both dogs and cats is a great place to start.  

Check with your veterinarian if you’re not sure what kind of food or treats are best for your pet. 

Visit the vet  

Visiting your veterinarian on a routine basis will keep your pet healthy and prevent illness. Every pet has specific needs, so you should take the advice directly given to you from your veterinarian.