Whether it was love at first sight or a long arduous matchmaking process that brought you together, a good relationship with your pets requires continual work and fine-tuning. Here are some ways to polish up your bond with them in the New Year, and to make life better for all animals in 2009 and beyond.
Quit Drinking
I will not let my dog or cat drink out of the toilet this year. No matter how cool and refreshing that porcelain bowl is to Rover or Spot, it is off limits! I will provide fresh, clean water daily and extra in hot weather.
Spend More Time with Family and Friends
I will not use my cell phone while walking the dog nor read the paper/mail when opening the back door to let her out. I will frequently call for my dog to “come” just so we can spend quality time together. Active and engaged dogs are happy and well-behaved dogs, and the same goes for people!
Fit in Fitness
I will – I really, really will – exercise more every day with my dog by walking her an additional 15+ minutes in the morning and again at night. We will make more family outings to dog parks and other canine-friendly environments for high-energy playtime.
Tame the Bulge
I will feed my dog the highest quality food I can afford and serve it in portion sizes that are recommended by the experts. I will remember to include treats in calculating my dog’s daily calorie intake. I will refrain from offering table scraps, especially during a meal!
Enjoy Life More
I will spend quiet, loving time every day with my pets and enjoy watching my own live version of Animal Planet in the living room, den, sunroom, or wherever else they hang out, play, stretch, preen, sun, or sleep.
Get Organized
I will make sure that my pet is microchipped and that the microchip registry is current. I will get my dog’s license, rabies certificate, and vaccines current. I will administer a heartworm preventative and flea and tick preventative on a regular schedule, and will take my dog in for well care visits to the vet. I will keep my pet first aid kit and earthquake supplies (don’t forget pet food and meds!) up-to-date, too.
Help Others
I will give back to the community by volunteering and donating to a local animal shelter and/or animal rescue foundation. Every organization in the humane field needs your help in some way or another.
Get Out of Debt
When I take my dogs in for their annual check-ups, I will donate the cost of a low-cost spay/neuter surgery for someone else who can’t afford it. Our shelters are already full of unwanted pets and our tax dollars fund euthanasia every day in every city, county, and state in the country. I will do my part to turn around this tragic situation.
Learn Something New
I will teach my old dog or my new puppy new tricks this year to keep her mind and body in shape. I will be consistent in my care, treatment, and training, using appropriate rewards and punishments.
Quit Smoking
I will not get hot under the collar over problems I can’t solve, but will be passionate and determined in pursuing solutions. For example, I will spread the word to friends, family members, co-workers, and neighbors: Please don’t buy, don’t breed, adopt! Until every pet is spayed or neutered, adoption is the only way to deal with pet overpopulation and homelessness.
Anita Mascoli is a volunteer of The Milo Foundation, a 15-year old nonprofit organization that rescues, adopts out, and provides sanctuary for domestic animals. The Milo Adoption Center is now open at 2060 4th Street in San Rafael. For more information, call 415-454-MILO (6456) or visit www.milofoundation.org. Volunteers and foster families are always needed and donations are much appreciated.
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