Get Inspired with Kingston’s New Year Pet Goals

Whether you started on January 1st or you're just getting going now, New Year's resolutions are still fresh on many minds... and while you're thinking of the goals you'd like to achieve, remember to share that positivity with your furry friend! It's a chance to give them a healthier, more fulfilling life - and that means even more time soaking up the unique bond the two of you share. 

The thought of writing those pesky resolutions can be daunting, so our vets in Kingston-upon-Thames have come up with a few strategies to make this year the best one yet for your pet. To get started, why not have get some tailored advice from our team at Kingston? That's one resolution already crossed off!

How to set Pet Health Goals for the New Year  

Establish some ground rules 

One of the biggest causes of failed New Year's resolutions is setting unclear or unrealistic expectations - think taking your small pooch for an hour-long adventure in Surrey when they're used to small walks around the block! Instead, decide what health and wellness means for your pet along with the target areas, and identify specific, reachable goals within these, such as physical and emotional health, mental stimulation, dental routine and behavioural needs.  

Healthy diet, happy pet 

When it comes to shedding some excess pounds and changing diet, your pet needs you to do the heavy lifting. This means providing them with a well-balanced diet - especially one recommended by your vet - that meets their nutritional needs, sticking to the correct portions, and swapping out calorie dense treats for healthier alternatives. It also means avoiding giving them human food as although it may seem enticing, it can lead to a number of health issues and weight gain, according to our vets in Kingston-upon-Thames.  

Get more physical 

Doing regular exercise releases endorphins and helps keep your pet (and you) healthy in body and mind. Win-win. Kingston vets' team recommend setting time aside every day where your pet can get physical - for dogs, this may mean a walk, playing fetch, or an obstacle course indoors if the weather in Surrey is treacherous. For an added bonus, you're getting involved too, helping you reach your own fitness goals and strengthening the connection between you and your beloved pet - the ultimate support network. For a cat, climbing structures and toys can helping them move more and have fun.

Support their mental health 

To prevent boredom, keep them happy and lower the risk of destructive behaviours, it's just as important to stay on top of your pet's mental health as well as physical. Along with their much-loved - and half-eaten - toys, make this the year you try new enrichment ideas, such as new activities, training exercises, environments or a puzzle feeder, which supports their problem-solving abilities. Keep them on their furry toes, all year long.  

Keep their health in check 

It's better to be too early than too late, and proactive healthcare helps to detect and tackle any health problems as they appear, resulting in better outcomes for your pet. Our vets in Kingston-upon-Thames recommend visiting every six months, but this can vary based on your pet's age, breed, and health requirements. If you have any questions, just pop in to see us — here's our opening times.

Book your pet's new year health check with our caring and compassionate team at Kingston and know you're already making good progress with your resolutions!