Nevada Humane Society: New year brings fresh slate of goals for pets

We may be two weeks into 2018 but resolutions are still going strong. We work as humans to better our lives; how many of you do the same for your pets? New Year resolutions are a long tradition.

Most people are guilty of not sticking to them but studies show that promises made are best accomplished when done with someone — so why not with your pets? Think about it. Your pet will never flake on you, or say they’re too tired, or too busy. Your pet has more time for you than anyone else —so let’s do this!

First, make time for exercise. We all know this is the most common goal, but seriously, it’s a good thing. Whether you add in daily walks with your dog, a sprint in the park, or even at home yoga, where Kitty can participate, it’s good for everyone. Exercise stimulates our brain and offers enrichment for our pets. It strengthens your bond and —let’s be honest — is entertaining. Who doesn’t laugh when your agile cat climbs onto your back to share the downward dog pose?

Next up is diet. Yes, it’s another popular one, but diet and exercise will only set you and your pet up for success. Many people know me as a dessertaholic but I’m also pretty healthy. My husband and I make everything from scratch to eliminate processed foods and chemicals, and we eat in moderation — this way we can enjoy things like dessert on a regular basis! With our pets, it’s the same. While I’m totally guilty of giving them a nibble of approved table scraps, we also keep them on a healthy diet, with all natural ingredients, one that is low-glycemic with no fillers or by-products.

Looking for fun in the New Year? Try a new activity with your pet! Bring your dogs along on outdoor adventures (heck, cats too if they are leash trained) or maybe visit an agility course! For cats, yes, yoga is great (they’re natural yogis) but what about using interactive TV? I found an awesome cat channel on Amazon and they get to chase and watch the red dot, balls of yarn and squirrels — all on TV. They love it! If you’re artistic, set up a painting area with pet safe paints and let your dog or cat create a masterpiece.

Get in the habit of regular grooming. Though many of us bathe our pets at home, we also need to remember to trim their nails, brush their fur, clean their ears and more. Grooming keeps everyone happy and healthy, and when you allow a professional to do this, they even take care of those hard to reach spots — which we all know is not fun for us as their people!

Be sure to regularly visit your veterinarian too. This can help prevent future challenges and allow the vet to become a less scary place for your pet. Be open to a mix of traditional medicine and holistic care.

My pets have had instant results from things like chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture and cold laser therapy, as it works well on everything from inflammation of the muscles to allergies to inappropriate elimination. At Nevada Humane Society, we’re also working these holistic methods into our care for homeless pets, and there are several pet already benefitting from this — it’s an incredible thing to see!

Finally, consider getting involved with a local shelter. Nevada Humane Society is always in need of dedicated volunteers! From fostering to answering the phone to walking dogs, volunteers are a big help. All that’s required is a general orientation, then various handling classes (which you can do all in one day) so that you can work directly with the animals. Fostering is vital to lifesaving too — foster families allow various pets into their homes temporarily to provide care and socialization until an animal is ready for adoption.

2018 is New Year, a new slate, a new beginning. It’s time to look at the bigger picture, not just ourselves. Spend more time with your pets, your family and your friends — because you never know how long they’ll be with you. Keep a positive attitude. Be open to change. Love. Oh, and Happy New Year!

Featured Pet: Hi! We’re JuJu and LuLu Belle! We came in together because our owner was in poor health and they had nowhere to turn for help. We’re both on the curvy (fluffy) side, and we both kind of resemble teddy bears! We both love to be held, cuddle time, belly rubs and toys. As seniors, we’re also well versed in being awesome house cats. We’re available at Nevada Humane Society in Carson City, open daily for pet adoptions. Come meet us at Nevada Humane Society Carson City Center, 549 Airport Road.

— Kimberly Wade is the Communications Director for Nevada Humane Society. She has been with the organization for almost 9 years but her passion for animals is lifelong. Kimberly lives with her husband and 3 cats.