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It's a new year and a new you...said no pet ever. In fact, your pet loves you just the way you are and wants you to stay that way always, but what about them? Are they happy with the direction their life is going? Truth is...if you care enough to read pet blogs, I am sure their life is going just great! But, let's explore some potential new year's resolutions that you and your pet could do together!
The Classic: Diet and Exercise
Diet and exercise should be a priority year round for you and your pet, but sometimes we can certainly be caught up with delicious pizza and binge watching tv. Try to make a commitment to better eating and more walks with your pet. Not only will you benefit from walking, but it can help extend your pet's life and even curb unwanted behaviors.
The Zen: Massage
Pets need relaxation, too. Massage not only helps relax and destress your pet, but it can increase their blood circulation, range of motion, flexibility and joint pain. This will also bring you and your pet closer as they will love the attention. This benefits you, too as petting your pet can decrease the production of harmful cortisol (a stress hormone) in your own body. For tips on how to massage your pet take a look at this great video created by Pure Knead Massage.
The Best Bet: Learn Something New
Let's ditch the old phrase, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks"! Why don't you and your pet learn something new together: Shake, Sit, Roll Over, Speak or even something more complicated like fetching a specific item. Don't forget the training treats and your patience when teaching your pet something new and remember the key is repetition.
The Ruffugees Foundation wishes you and your family a happy and healthy new year and please share with us what you and your pet's resolutions are for 2018!
See you on the wild side,
Danielle
P.S. Be sure to whip up some of today's Ruff-ipes for when you kiss your best friend at midnight!
