Naperville Dog and Pet Blog

Pet Care In Naperville for 2012

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The New Year is upon us and everyone seems to be thinking of how this year is going to be different, better, than last year.  Everyone has resolutions on their mind, whether or not we actually do anything about them.  I’ve been thinking of some of the more popular resolutions and how these could apply to our pets.

1. Eat Healthy.  Managing his/her diet is probably the simplest and most effective way to help your pet.  There are so many food choices out there; it’s easy to be confused.  Talk to your veterinarian at your pet’s next wellness visit for the best advice.  And go easy on the snacks.  I recently read that one large milk bone is the caloric equivalent of a Big Mac.  Not sure if this is true, but it’s something to think about.  I know I’m looking to limit my intake of cookies in the New Year; I’ll be doing the same for my dogs.
2. Get Fit.  I have this vision of dogs hitting the gym on January 2 just like their human counterparts.  If only it was this easy.  Your dog needs you to help him exercise.  If your yard is fenced, terrific!  Open that door often and let them run safely to their heart’s content.  Depending on the breed, you may have to help by throwing a ball or finding other ways to get them “in the game.”   If you don’t have a fenced yard, get the leash out and make sure your dog has the opportunity to walk or run on a daily basis.  Not an easy task, given the colder weather and shorter days, but well worth the effort.  There’s a reason we say, “The Dogs Love Running! pet care service helps your pets live longer and behave better through exercise.”  It’s true. 
3. Break A Bad Habit.  Thankfully, dogs don’t have to worry about addictive habits such as smoking, but they can get hooked on other bad behaviors.  Does your dog bark, dig or just seem out of control?  Again, exercise could very well get your dog on track to better behavior.   One of my favorite sayings is “A tired dog is a good dog.”  I have three high energy dogs at my house and there is nothing better than seeing them all relaxed in the house after they’ve had a chance to spend their energy during the day.

4. Enjoy Life.  There are many versions of this resolution:  spend more time with family and friends, decrease stress, relax more, be happy.  I’m not certain that dogs are worried about enjoying life, but we should be focused on making sure they are happy.  After all, we love them and want the best for them, right?  Here’s a picture of Riley after his run with Dogs Love Running!  Doesn’t he look happy?  No surprise, our mission at Dogs Love Running! is to make pets happy. 

Happy New Year to you and your pets!  Make 2012 great!