How to Get Your Pet Healthy in 2019

How to Get Your Pet Healthy in 2019

Part 1 of a 3-Part Series

If you’re like most people, January 1 is the start of new resolve as it relates to diet, exercise and organization. In fact, according to Statistics.com, 45% of people’s New Year’s Resolutions relate to losing weight or getting in shape. But how should your plans for a heathy new year translate to your pet? 

First step for success?

Studies show that less than 25% of people who set resolutions actually stay committed to them just 30 days later. Worse yet, according to Forbes, only eight percent actually accomplish the resolutions they set. To beat the odds, instead of writing resolutions, set goals. Decide what you want to alter about your pet’s physical and emotional well-being and then make goals designed to bring about change. 

Physical Goals

Is your cat or dog hefty? Or, let’s be honest…fat? In this week’s post, which is the first in a three-part series, we will examine fitness as it relates to your pet’s diet. Check back next week, when we focus on how to exercise your pet. Then, finally, part three in our series will cover ways to organize everything related to your pet for a new start in 2019. 

First and foremost, make an honest assessment about your pet’s weight. Figuring out whether weight is an issue may require a conversation with your veterinarian. He or she should be able to assess your dog or cat’s weight and overall health and make recommendations regarding diet and exercise. Your vet may also volunteer to teach you to assess your best friend’s condition by observing body shape and examining your pet’s anatomy. A healthy weight isn’t just a number on a scale. It’s all about healthy body composition…in people and pets!

Weighty Matters

Keeping your pet at a healthy weight will not only lowers his/her risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, respiratory disease, kidney disease, and some forms of cancer but can also reduce the risk of injury to bones, joints and muscles associated with excess weight. If your pet has arthritis, maintaining a healthy weight will help manage the discomfort associated with joint pain. Excess weight can reduce your pet’s life expectancy by more than two years. So, it’s important to keep him fit and trim to give him the best chance of a longer, healthier, and pain-free life.

If your vet recommends a reduced calorie diet, carefully follow manufacturer’s suggested serving size. Also, ask your vet if the pet food you are purchasing is the best choice for weight control. And once you’ve settled on the perfect pet food, pay attention to portions. Pets who enjoy their food are as likely to overeat as their masters. So, monitor their intake so they won’t overindulge. 

Also, make sure you supplement with only the healthiest, whole-food snacks available, such as Petique Under the Sea and Above the Land Bites. Our Hooked Paw Me! 100% Natural Pet Treats have only ONE ingredient and NO additives or preservatives. They are packed with protein and baked at low temperature to maintain nutritional value. What’s more, they are delicious and 100% natural! Even the pickiest eater will love these bites. Great for dogs and cats. Your pets will be hooked and pawing for more!

Check back next week, when we continue our three-part series by discussing ways to meet your pet-related fitness goals for 2019.

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