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New Year's Resolutions for Your Pets

New Year’s Resolutions for Your Pets


               As 2019 comes to a close, our thoughts turn to the new year (and a brand-new decade!) ahead.  This is the time that we also vow to better ourselves and to enjoy life anew.  Our pets are important parts of our lives and families, so why not make some resolutions to make their lives better in 2020.  Here are some thoughts:

  • Schedule those wellness exams.  We know it’s not always easy to get your pets in to see us, but yearly exams go a long way to keeping your pet healthy.  Routine exams catch early signs of illness, ensure your pet is healthy and allows us to make sure your pet is up to date on routine care to prevent illness such as appropriate vaccinations, parasite control and flea and tick preventatives.  We also have a telemedicine option known as Televet that allows us to “examine” your pet via a video chat from the comfort of your home.  While this doesn’t take the place of a hands-on wellness exam, certain conditions such as skin problems, behavioral issues or even being unable to visit the office due to inclement weather may be good reasons to consider a telemedicine consult.  More info about the app is available on our website or ask our staff.
  • Clean out old toys and consider trying a new activity with your pet.  Pets get bored, too.  Most likely, Santa brought some new toys for your fur babies this year.  Rotating toys helps provide enrichment and be sure to toss any toys that are worn, breaking apart or that are beyond cleaning.  As for new activities, they can keep your pet fit and stave off boredom.  Agility training, visiting a hospital or nursing home, hiking, playing with puzzle toys or even working on teaching your dog or cat a new trick are all good options to cure the winter blues.
  • OK, weight loss and staying fit is always on everyone’s New Year’s resolution list.  But obesity is a real problem for our pets—nearly 60% of dogs and cats are characterized as being significantly overweight.  And, while they may look cute and cuddly, obesity causes health problems such as joint issues, diabetes and can predispose to other health issues like pancreatitis. Overweight pets live shorter lifespans than their leaner counterparts and we all want our pets to live as long as possible.  Let’s aim to keep our pets lean and fit in 2020 by practicing portion control and feeding good quality foods, limiting snacks and table food and making sure pets get plenty of exercise.  Walking our dogs or playing with our cats have the added benefit of helping to keep ourselves physically and mentally fit as well!

More important than all of these is taking time to love and spend time with our pets every day.  Pets provide unconditional love, reduce stress and are an endless source of joy to their owners.  While they can put us through some trials and hardships sometimes, we wouldn’t trade them for the world!  

        Patton Veterinary Hospital wants to wish you and your pets a Happy and Healthy New Year.  We hope to see you in 2020 and beyond!

This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital, serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

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