An expert has suggested that as well as making new year's resolutions to improve their own lifestyle, pet owners should do the same for their dogs. Writing for the Bradenton Herald, regular contributor and chief of Manatee County Animal Services Kris Weiskopf suggested January can be the time for people to assess their dog's diet and look at ways of improving their overall nutrition.
This could include swapping treats and scraps of food meant for human consumption for a healthy diet of specialist dog food such as Pro Plan dog food, which is available for both large and small animals, as well as those with sensitive stomachs.
Mr Weiskopf noted getting the right nutrients is just as important for pets as it is for people. "Poor skin, hair coat, muscle tone and obesity problems can be a result of a poor diet," he stated. "Like humans, pets that eat poor-quality food don't have the same health reserves as those that have a good balanced diet."
He also urged individuals to make grooming their pet a new year's resolution if they do not do it already. Along with using some dog nail clippers, this should include brushing their fur and cleaning their teeth with dog toothpaste.
As well as keeping pets happy and healthy, Dogs Trust notes this can reduce expenses for owners as they will not have to pay for professional hair cutting and grooming services. Regular trips to the vet were also recommended by Mr Weiskopf as annual examinations will work out cheaper for people in the long run if they mean underlying illnesses are picked up sooner rather than later. Therefore 2012 could be the perfect time to start.
"A regular visit also establishes a good baseline of information about your pet, giving your veterinarian something to compare when something just isn't right," the expert added.