Pet ownership tips for the new year

Wow, can you believe it’s 2020 already! What possibilities could this new year hold? While you’re figuring that out, here are some pet ownership tips for another year with your beloved pet.

Pet ownership tips

• Schedule annual vaccinations now. If you usually have your pet’s annual vaccinations or health checkup in the spring, take a minute to call your vet, and book the appointment. Schedule it (with reminders) in your calendar so you don’t forget.
• Do a quick inventory of your pet’s wellbeing. You don’t need to be a vet to note any obvious changes in your pet. Are they eating and drinking well? Have they lost or gained weight? Do you have any concerns about their elimination habits? Any major changes in your pet’s appearance or habits should be addressed by your vet.
• Get ready for a fresh start in the New Year! Wash your pet’s belongings (if appropriate), such as food and water bowls, and bedding.
• Give your pet a good groom. Your pet will appreciate a thorough brushing or bath. Also take a few minutes to trim your pet’s nails if your pet will allow it.
• Inspect and replace pet toys. Look for excessive wear, missing pieces or any loose parts that your pet could swallow or choke on. Also keep an eye out for sharp edges or even mould or decay inside of bones or chew toys.
• Tidy your pet’s elimination area. Freshen up your cat’s litter box and surrounding area, and wash any soft towels or carpeting in the space. If there is a break in cold winter temperatures, consider cleaning the yard of animal feces. This will make your job in the Spring a lot easier.
• Renew your pet’s ID tags for 2020. Many municipalities have online services to make the renewal process quick and easy. ID tags help animal control and shelters easily identify your cat or dog as a pet and not a stray, and provide important additional information.
• Update your pet’s microchip info. If you’ve moved or have a new phone number, call your pet’s microchip provider such as PetLink to update your personal information in the event your pet is lost.

Have a great start to your new year! If you found this information helpful, comment below & SHARE this post.