Top 7 New Year's Resolutions for Loving Pet Owners

No pet owner is perfect, but we should always strive to give our dogs, cats and other companion animals the best care we can offer. One age-old method for focusing on betterment is New Year's resolutions. Why not add pet care concerns to your list?

If you need a Laguna Hills veterinarian and advice about ways to improve pet care, we have lots of information to share at Trinity Pet Hospital. In addition to Laguna Hills, we serve the Orange County communities of Irvine, Laguna Nigel, Mission Viejo and San Clemente.

Here are seven top resolutions we suggest.

Provide Regular Exercise

Daily walks, short breaks for play (fetch, catnip mouse chase, tug-of-war) and enrollment in a training or agility course are all good opportunities for exercise. Maintaining a healthy weight depends on activity as well as diet.

Choose Healthy Foods

Ask your veterinarian for suggestions regarding the healthiest dry and wet foods for your pet's age and specific needs, including special diets for pets with allergies.

Brush Your Pet's Teeth

Maximize dental health for your pet by brushing its teeth every other day or so with a small, soft toothbrush (such as one fitting on a fingertip) and toothpaste formulated for dogs or cats. Schedule dental checkups with a vet.

Give Your Pet Lots of Love

Take time daily to cuddle, scratch ears, provide tummy rubs, groom and otherwise show your pet love.

Maintain a Safe Environment

Make sure your pets don't have access to toxins including cleansers, garden chemicals, poisonous plants (check the ASPCA list) and antifreeze leaks (gutters and garage floors).

Plan for Emergencies

Create a family disaster plan that includes your pet. Record your pet's identity through a microchip implant making it easier to locate your pet if lost.

Schedule Vaccinations & Well Care

Prevent illness and other problems by keeping up with vaccinations and veterinary checkups. Make a resolution to contact us at Trinity Animal Hospital for a well-care visit. We're open Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.