Welcome to the New Year, pet moms and dads! Are you setting healthy goals for yourself? Be sure to set them for your pet as well. We’ll start this year with 4 healthy habits for you and your Space Coast pets that we recommend!
Goals help to boost motivation for reaching milestones and give you tangible objectives. What goals can you set for your pet? Well, there are many things you can focus on, and many will improve your life as well.
One thing to consider when setting these goals is Florida’s unique climate and typical lifestyles. These can significantly affect what goals you set and how you go about achieving them. You may need to visit the vet to see recommended health goals and develop fun ideas for strengthening your bond. Those in apartments may need to get out more and find ways to socialize. Let’s look at some great healthy habits for you and your pet.
Healthy Habit #1: Diet Resolutions for You and Your Pets
Do you know how to feed your pet properly? Many pet parents aren’t aware of appropriate portions of healthy foods for them, so you’re not alone. Portion control helps to manage weight and can reduce the chances of health problems later in life. Be sure to check with your vet for more information on what and how much to feed them based on their size, breed, and other factors.
If you do learn that you should change their diet, it’s essential to transition correctly to avoid digestive issues. If not done right, it may make your pet turn their nose at the new food. You should slowly incorporate some of the new food into their old diet and gradually increase the percentage of it over several weeks.
Ideal foods are those approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), so check the labels!
Fresh food is vital for pets as well as humans. Thankfully, Florida offers many options for fresh food for pets. For example, apples and bananas are generally considered safe. However, the ASPCA has created a list of the most common toxic foods for pets. Be sure to research any new foods that are not labeled safe for pets to ensure their safety.
Healthy Habit #2: Exercise Goals for Active Space Coast Pets
According to Texas A&M, studies show that dogs (and humans) benefit from regular exercise. It can improve bone health as well as organ function. It can also help your pet maintain a healthy weight, preventing joint problems and other health concerns later in life.
Does your pet misbehave? Burning off some of their pent-up energy could help. Outdoor exercises like walking, running, playing fetch or frisbee, or agility training are best. Whatever exercise you enjoy doing, your pet can likely tag along.
If you’re stuck inside or live in a small space like an apartment, you can still do things to help them get the necessary exercise. Try tug-of-war with their favorite toy or use the time indoors to work on command training. Puzzle toys are ideal for mental stimulation.
Healthy Habit #3: Routine Health Maintenance for Your Pets
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, annual vet checks are recommended for all pets. They advise this because humans get regular checkups and dental cleanings. Regular care is important, and your vet may be able to identify upcoming health issues that can be prevented or treated early.
Florida pets are subject to various common health concerns, such as fleas. Tick-borne illnesses are rampant in the state, so flea and tick prevention medication is vital. Heartworms are common because of mosquitos. Due to the humid weather, pets may also experience gastrointestinal problems.
Grooming your pet may be able to prevent some of these health issues. Regular brushing can help with skin issues, especially allergies. It also allows checking for anything unusual, like lumps or ticks. They may be more comfortable in the humidity with routine grooming as it helps remove excess coats. Plus, you get the added benefit of less shed in your home!
Healthy Habit #4: Building Stronger Bonds With Your Pet
Pets bond with their pet parents and form a strong connection. You can strengthen this bond in several key ways. Choose the best ones from the list below that fit into your lifestyle:
- Training (command or agility)
- Snuggling
- Exercising
- Grooming
- Socializing (with friends or other pets)
Another key way to bond with your pet is to create a routine. Just like humans, pets thrive on routine. Incorporate any of the above into your daily routine to strengthen your bond. If you have a new pet, start these things early to establish a strong bond. Those with older pets may have already bonded over time, but this can continually be reinforced.
Remember, too, that socializing with other animals and people can benefit your pet in several key ways. Social pets are often easier to groom, handle vet exams, and are less likely to become aggressive. They have less anxiety overall. Plus, socializing is fun!
Healthy Habits for You and Your Space Coast Pets in 2025
A new year means setting goals. You may even do this for yourself. Be sure to set realistic and fun goals for your pets as well. This could be weight loss or becoming more fit, getting more exercise, scheduling a visit with the veterinarian, or socializing more often.
Be sure to comment on these goals and let us know how you intend to accomplish them!
Don’t let pets at home keep you from reaching your own goals! Are you planning your next trip? Contact Space Coast Pet Services to schedule professional, in-home pet care for your furry or feathered friends in Viera, Suntree, and Rockledge today!
Happy New Year!
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