The holidays have come and gone, and 2026 is here! New Year’s resolutions are a popular way to launch full-force efforts to develop life-improving new habits. As pet people, we can’t help but think about how much more fun this would be if they benefited your favorite four-legged companion, too.
Here are just seven New Year’s Resolutions to make for your pet for a happy, healthy year.
1. Resolve to Take More Walks
Exercise is so crucial for humans and animals alike. Walks are a low-impact, enjoyable exercise that your dog will LOVE you for. Not only can walking help with weight loss for both you and your pup, but it can keep you in a better mood and reduce anxiety, among many other benefits.
Of course, longer walks will expend the most energy, but even short jaunts are better than nothing. Only have time for a ten-minute walk before work, after dinner, and before bedtime? Great – that’s 30 minutes of movement! Get out there!
If time is a problem, you spend long days in the office, or your pup is a high-energy breed who needs as much exercise as possible, consider hiring a professional dog walker to provide exercise when you can’t be there. Your dog will thank you for it.
2. Measure Their Food
When feeding pets, it’s common to say “one scoop” or “half a bowl.” While convenient, this isn’t a very accurate way to maintain your pets’ health or weight. Your “half a bowl” may differ significantly from your husband’s “half a bowl,” resulting in Fluffy’s portions changing daily and potentially leading to unwanted weight gain.
Consider getting a kitchen food scale to accurately weigh how much food you’re providing. Or, invest in a set of measuring cups meant solely for your pet’s food. With an actual measuring cup, you can provide consistent, level “scoops” and know precisely what your pet is ingesting. Your pet’s food bag will have a feeding guide on the back to give you an idea of where to start.
3. Review Your Pet’s Diet
The New Year also provides an excellent opportunity to review your pet’s diet. There are a lot of factors that should go into deciding what your pet eats. Things to consider?
- Input from your veterinarian
- Your pet’s life stage (puppy, kitten, adult, senior)
- Allergies
- Medical needs
- Quality
- Pet’s preference
Take a look at your pet’s weight, too. Are her ribs a little bit harder to feel? Maybe cut back on the table scraps (I know, it’s hard!). Is she gulping her food down in record time? Consider looking into puzzle feeders.
Take this opportunity to review how your pet looks and feels and what she needs, and always consult with your veterinarian if you have questions or concerns.
4. Keep Up with Preventative Care in the New Year
The saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” holds true for your pets.
Make New Year’s Resolutions for your pet to protect them from preventable conditions and diseases. Recommended preventive care will vary based on your pet’s species, age, and location, but our service area typically includes flea and tick prevention, dental care (both at home and with your veterinarian), HeartGuard, vaccinations, and semiannual wellness checkups.
Discuss your pet’s lifestyle, age, and breed with your veterinarian to determine what preventive care you should provide to help your pet live a long, happy, healthy life.
5. Never Stop Learning About Your Pet
No matter your pet’s age, learning new tricks and games stimulates their brains and keeps them happy and healthy. It can also make for a safer, more obedient pet and be fun!
Obedience classes are the first thing many consider when considering this New Year’s resolution, but there are so many options. Beyond the traditional “puppy” or “beginner class,” there are more advanced levels, agility classes, certifications to earn from the American Kennel Club, and more.
Some trainers will come directly to your home, practice obedience skills in real-world locations, or have group classes at the local brewery or dog park. Other options include playing games with your dog, purchasing different toys (or catnip for your cat), or enforcing basic obedience for a few minutes daily.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to teaching your pet and keeping them mentally stimulated.
6. Wash Those Dirty Pet Dishes!
When was the last time you washed your pet’s dishes? Make a New Year’s Resolution to wash your pet’s bowls daily. This often gets overlooked but is essential in preventing bacterial growth. Plus, who wants to eat out of a grimy dish?! I sure don’t!
I’ll be honest and tell you that, as a pet sitter, it has been undisputable from my first visit who does and does not wash their pet’s bowls. I have spent many visits scrubbing pet bowls and removing bacteria and months’ worth of dried-up food and saliva. Yuk!
Exactly how and when you should wash your pets’ dishes depends on what they are made of. Some bowls should be hand washed while others are safe to throw in the dishwasher.
7. Spend Quality Time Together
Life is short. Make time to spend with your pup doing whatever makes you both happy. Curl up on the couch together and watch a movie. Go for a long walk, where you may spend most of your time just letting your dog sniff. Let your cat drink the tuna water just this once.
Resolve to enjoy each other’s company and the amazing companionship your pet brings despite the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Your pet will love you for it, and you’ll be a happy, satisfied pet parent.
2026 New Year’s Resolutions to Make For Your Pet
The possibilities are endless. Between long walks, continued learning, extra cuddle time, and a good diet review, you are setting your pet up for a great year. Of course, anything you do to better your and your pet’s lives and health is a resolution worth making, and we commend you. Happy New Year!
To learn how Space Coast Pet Services’ professional pet sitters can help you and your pets achieve your New Year’s Resolutions, check out our services, contact us, or book online today!
Happy New Year!
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