January 20, 2026 –
A new year comes with new resolutions – like finally hitting the gym regularly or eating healthier – that we will likely give up on by February. Need extra motivation? Involve a furry friend to be an accountability partner! While they support you with your goals, you can support them by making responsible pet ownership habits as your goal in 2026.
Consistency is King
Like people, pets benefit greatly from having a routine. Although you may still be debating what to have for dinner tonight, aim to feed your pet at the same time every day. By sticking to a solid feeding schedule, your pet can better regulate their digestion when they get a feel for when to expect mealtime.
At night when things are winding down, having designated “quiet” hours before bedtime can help reduce anxiety/stress and promote relaxation. This gives your pet an opportunity to slowly transition into bedtime rather than it suddenly happening. And by doing this consistently, a routine will be created, allowing your pet to get a hang of the nighttime routine.
Expect the Unexpected
Emergencies wait for no one, but by being prepared you can ensure that you and your furry friends are prepared for whatever life throws in your direction.
Prepare a first aid kit for your pets and make sure necessary supplies, including food, water, and medications are readily available in case you need to leave your home at a moment’s notice. Know where your closest emergency veterinary options are located, including those that accept animals 24 hours a day. In the event that you cannot be present, make sure to have an emergency contact for someone who can take care of your furry friend. Click here for more resources on our website pertaining to animal emergency preparedness.
Provide a Happy and Healthy Lifestyle
Still have those same toys laying on the floor that your pet hasn’t touched in weeks? This year, change it up by introducing your furry friend to new ones. If you are not in the market of buying new toys on a regular basis, you can also rotate the ones you have, creating a feeling of newness for your pet.
Even when it’s just you and your furry friend at home, make sure to keep the conversations going. While they can’t understand what you’re saying, the sound of your voice can be a source of comfort for your pet.
If your dog particularly enjoys social experiences, schedule regular visits to a park where they can meet other animals and people. For social cats and dogs who prefer staying in, allow them to meet new guests at your home but at their own pace.
Promote Pet Wellness
By keeping up with your pet’s health, you can ensure they remain happy and healthy for a lifetime. Make it a habit to schedule regular health checkups for your furry friend, and don’t forget to clean their teeth and trim those nails on a routine basis.
While you may already exercise many of these habits, it is never too late to pick up new healthy pet ownership skills. While it is best to practice as many of these as you can, even mastering a few of these practices can go a long way for the wellbeing of your furry friend.
