At the start of each new year, so many of us make resolutions to do things differently. As we make these changes for our own good and wellbeing, I started thinking about how we could include our pets in some of them.

1. Healthier eating and weight loss
Obesity is estimated to be at about 50% in dogs, just over 40% in cats and about 30% in small mammals in the UK. A major factor in this is over-feeding, and as the pet owner, we are ultimately responsible for portion control in most cases. Making sure to accurately weigh food out and cutting down on treats (or choosing healthy options) can make a huge difference. Your vet or vet nurse can help to advise you on what the healthy ‘body condition score’ (and weight) of your pet should be, and what you can do to help achieve this.

2. Getting active
If you’re anything like me, the thought of a dog walk is much more appealing than going to the gym! Scheduling daily exercise (whatever the weather!) with your dog can be good for both of you. Some dogs will really enjoy something like agility training, which can be fantastic fun for humans, too! Sedentary cats can sometimes be encouraged to move more with play, especially chasing games. It’s essential to make sure small mammals have plenty of space to move about and explore too – tunnels and boxes, areas to forage and things to jump on are all good ideas.

3. New skills
Consider teaching your pet a new trick, or start work on training if there’s something (like recall) that could really be improved. If they’ve struggled with firework anxiety recently, consider starting a long-term training programme with them over the coming months to help them cope better in the future (see the Dogs Trust sound therapy website for free resources).

4. Self-care
Taking more time to brush your pet’s coat or teeth more regularly, and just simply spending quality time with them is hugely beneficial and can increase bonding.

Wishing a very happy and healthy 2026 to you and your pets from us at Dragon Vets!