This is the beginning of a new year, which means you can develop healthy habits for yourself and your pet. In 2023, we're all in agreement that we'd all like to strive to ensure our pets are happy and healthy. However, we must ensure we give ourselves the same respect.

We've created a list of five activities we can engage in with our pets over the next 11.5 months to remain healthy and interested. There's a bit of (mild) physical activity, and you'll be required to visit the vet. Learning a different way of life or language could be good for both of you.

1. See the Doc (Both of You)

The idea of taking your pet to the vet was a part of the 2023 goals, but we will talk about how crucial it is to maintain your pet's health. Both you and your cat or dog should visit the vet at least every year at the minimum. (Extremely young pets and older ones require visits more often.)

Ideally, regular visits ensure that your vet can spot any health issues in the early stages and that your pet is current with all shots.

"It's just a good idea," says Steven Appelbaum, founder and president of the Animal Behavior College.

However, it would help if you held to the obligation. Also. What will your pet think of you should he know you had skipped the regular physical or checkup? Set up an appointment.

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2. Learn Some New Skills--Maybe a Language?

It's possible to begin in 2023 by training your dog in the basics. Or, you could go for something more sophisticated, like nose work. According to Ben Bennink, chair of The Association of Professional Dog Trainers, you could try the training yourself, but be sure you've done your homework and are using the correct techniques.

If you're unsatisfied, consider hiring an animal trainer or taking classes for group training. But what if you could learn? An entirely new language?

It's not a good idea to spend excessive time with Duolingo or Babbel; however, giving your dog new cues in a different dialect can bring benefits, according to Bennink. For instance, if you usually speak English but are teaching your pet commands in French, then you do not have to think about throwing "sit," "stay," or "walk" around in everyday conversations.

Bennink suggests you save the alternate language from your pet's "emergency cue"-the single word you use to bring your dog to you immediately. This will eliminate any confusion when your pet must get to you in a hurry.

Are you looking for an easy way to get around? You can also teach your cat's or dog's signals using hand signals. Dogs learn by either sight or hearing. However, Bennink claims they're more likely to follow hand signals than spoken words.

3. Embrace the Special Routine

This is Appelbaum's favourite, and many of us likely have one. You and your pet have come up with those bizarre routines over time. For his part, he used to play a game called "find the treat" with his Labrador retriever and basset dog. The game was self-explanatory and took around 10 minutes. The dogs, who were forced to use their brains to discover the hidden treasure--loved playing with it.

My family experienced something similar to this. For a long time, my dog Riley used to beg for a dental treat every night; at night, my mom would make her bark. She would then turn around in circles and perform a series of flying leaps in the kitchen. After 3 or 4 times--with the delight of everyone around her, she would smugly return to the living area with the chewy sticks.

All this means is that you and your cat or dog must find your unique routines. You can change meals or even turn the morning routine into a game of hide and hunt. Your pet will love playing with it, and you'll love watching your pet have fun. Win-win.

4. Walk--and Smell--More

Talking about routines, walking more often with your cat or dog is beneficial for all parties involved. Walking regularly helps us manage our weight and help keep our bodies healthy. It could be more essential for our dogs and our pets.

"Giving them opportunities to engage in their natural environment is huge," Bennink says.

Most of our pets are usually confined to the house, with a few moments outdoors. Still, walks are an excellent opportunity to exercise your dog's mind and body and exercise, mainly if you give the dog ample time to sniff.

Our noses experience the world. So it would help if you were prepared to sit on the sidewalk while your pet tries to determine who has been peeing there all day. It's beneficial for his mental health, and a breath of fresh air also won't harm you.

Appelbaum says exercise is also a great way to help dogs suffering from behavioural issues and frustration. A routine walk -- perhaps once or twice per week, can help release energy that might otherwise become destructive.

5. Do What Your Pet Likes

It's a bit detail. However, you know your pet better than anyone else. Please don't engage in any of the suggestions in the above list unless you know your dog is enjoying them. (Well, aside from the vet-related one. Our pets must go to the vet regardless of whether they want to or not.)

Bennink advises against forcing your pets to participate in activities they may not enjoy. It is okay to attempt an activity you haven't tried before, and your pet does not like. Return to the action your cat or dog recognizes and loves, regardless of whether it's an animal puzzle or a floating fish.

This is why you must always be aware of your pet's behaviour, Appelbaum says. It's not just about their likes and dislikes; watching their poop, pee, and even their behaviour will help you determine if they're in good shape. They'll be the same for you, after all.

1. i hate my puppy