It’s great to set New Year’s resolutions. They help you to move forward from last year and achieve something amazing with the next. However, the majority of people set out with good intentions, only to default into their old ways weeks later. 

What you really need is someone to share your resolutions and keep you on the right track. And who better than your pet? 

Sharing a New Year’s resolution with your pets can be fulfilling, fun and help you create a deeper bond, both with your pet, and with you goals. 

Plus, it will benefit both of you! So, here are 5 New Year’s resolution ideas that you could share with your pet. 

Before we get started, if you want to read fun informative articles about cats or dogs, check out Noah from The Animal Nut, the author of this article.

1. Eat Healthier

This is usually number one on everyone’s list. Eating healthy can help you lose those extra those extra pounds gained on Christmas, make you feel better about yourself, and give you more energy. Well, there’s no reason your pet shouldn’t have that too. 

Recent studies have shown that an omnivorous diet for pets is much more beneficial than purely meat-based foods. So, if you have a dog or a cat, there are specialzied diets out there incorporating fresh vegetables.

While you’re dicing up veggies for yourself, dice some for your pet as well! 

2. Work Out

Exercise is essential for a healthy lifestyle and that goes for your pet too. It is also a pastime that you and your pet can enjoy together. 

It’s easy to skip walks every so often because it’s raining or cold. Though, you should set a resolution to stick to your exercise regime no matter what the weather. 

Go out and enjoy the fresh air and get your steps in. It’s much better for both you and your dog to stick to that routine. 

It’s also important for other pets to get frequent exercise. There’s no reason you can’t go out for a walk with your cat too. It’s good for them to be out of the house and means you get some quality time. Just make sure you follow some important guidelines.

Small animals could also use a trip outside, especially in the summer months. Take your pet out on the grass. You could even do yoga while your pet is having the time of their life running around you, wondering what you’re doing. 

3. Date Nights

Socializing is an important aspect of staying mentaly healthy and it’s all too easy to get home after a long day and just sit in front of the TV. Sticking to a regular date night keeps you connected. And, well, your pets need to socialize too.

Double dating is a fantastic way to stay connected with people, and for your dog to make friends. Commit to a double date with another person and their dog once a week. 

This keeps you active and connected and allows your dog to do the same. It’s a great day you can share and something you can both look forward to. 

Small animals such as rabbits or guinea pigs are social creatures as well. Why not book a regular play date with someone who has the same type of pet too? 

Your pets can socialize while you do the same. It’s a terrific way to meet new people and pets.

4. Learn Something New

It’s important to always strive to learn more. For us, that could be learning a new language or a craft. And, well, it would also benefit your pet to learn new skills and help to keep their mind active. 

Why not learn something new together? Taking a course in dog training or animal care will develop your skills and give your pet the benefits. 

You can teach an old dog new tricks, so a training course can help you self-improve together.

A pet care course could also give you some ideas on how to handle your pet, spend time with them and look after their general wellbeing. 

The changes and skills you learn here are ones that you can put into practice with your pet, so both of you develop together. 

5. Frequent Health Checks

It’s essential that we get a clean bill of health every so often from our doctor. This helps us understand if we need to amend our lifestyle. 

Well, getting the “all clear” from a vet for your pet is just as important. 

You should set a resolution to schedule a health check for both of you every 6 months. This will help you keep track of your health goals. 

Try to arrange with your doctor and vet around the same time so that you’re in it together. 

Next Steps

It’s great that you’re wanting to set goals for 2022. Whether it’s exercise, healthy eating or just spending more time together, plan time for your new activities and stick to it.