Each New Year we’re inundated with lists of things to do, buy, and become. This year I’m taking the opposite approach: here are the things you definitely don’t want to do, purchase or aspire to be more like. It’s time for my Anti-Resolutions for your pets.
1) Don’t buy junk food treats.
You know what I’m talking about. Those tiny calorie grenades are killing your pet. This year, feed fresh crunchy veggies or treats with simple ingredients such as sweet potatoes.
2) Don’t read pet food labels.
If you can’t comprehend what’s in your pet’s food, imagine how they feel. The most important decision you make each day for your pet is what you feed it. Choose wisely.
3) Don’t make excuses to skip walks.
You both need to walk more. Buy a coat, umbrella or even a pair of galoshes, but don’t miss your walks. You’ll both live longer and be healthier because of it.
4) Don’t avoid the animal shelter.
Go visit the county animal shelter so you can see for yourself what’s working and what needs to be fixed. I hear too many complaints from residents who’ve never set foot there. How can we make something better when we don’t know what’s wrong? If you’re truly concerned about the state of stray animals in Brunswick County, go visit, talk to the employees and decide how you can help.
5) Don’t put off your pet’s exam.
I know money’s tight but that little lump, cough or limp may be the start of something more serious. Often I’m left with simply too little time to help an ill patient. If I had a quarter for ever case I could’ve saved had I only seen it six months earlier, I’d be retired by now, or at least have a big jar of quarters. And don’t go to the vet only when your pet is sick. My mission is to preserve health and prevent illness. Going to the vet or physician should be an opportunity to learn how to stay healthier longer. You should leave each appointment with advice on how to improve you or your pet’s life. If not, ask for it.
6) Don’t forget your dog or cat’s heartworm preventive.
Heartworm disease is fatal to dogs and cats. There is no treatment for cats (aka DEAD) and the medication for dogs is on a several year backorder (seriously). Think your indoor cat isn’t at risk? Not according to research from the vet school in Raleigh. This is not the time to gamble with heartworm preventive.
7) Don’t ignore that pesky behavior.
Little behavior problems turn into big troubles, quickly. If your dog is barking at passing cars, lunging on the leash, or jumping up on guests, talk to your vet (that’s our job). If you intervene with behavior problems early, you can often correct them easily. Wait until your dog is biting the delivery man, it may take a while.
8) Don’t forget to hug your pet each day.
And be thankful for all you have this year. I hope 2012 is you and your pets’ best year yet!
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