Happy New Year! As we all start thinking about our own resolutions—whether it’s hitting the gym or eating more greens—it’s the perfect time to think about our four-legged family members, too. A fresh start in January is the best way to ensure your pet has a happy, healthy year ahead.
Here is how you can kick off the year on the right paw:
Start the Year with a Wellness Check
Early detection is the cornerstone of veterinary medicine. Catching a small issue now can prevent a big (and expensive) problem later. January is the ideal time to:
- Schedule an annual exam: Let’s make sure everything is functioning as it should.
- Update vaccinations: Keep those boosters current to protect against preventable diseases.
- Review preventatives: Ensure your pet is shielded from heartworms, fleas, and ticks.
- Consult the experts: Have questions about your pet’s nutrition, weight, or a new “quirky” behavior? We’re here to chat!
Winter Safety: Staying Cozy and Safe
While we’re bundled up in coats, our pets still face risks from the dropping temperatures. Keep these safety tips in mind:
- Limit “Outdoor Time”: If it’s too cold for you, it’s likely too cold for them.
- The “Paw-sitive” Cleanup: Always wipe paws after walks. Ice melt and road salt can be irritating or even toxic if licked off.
- Draft-Free Dreams: Ensure bedding is elevated or away from chilly floor drafts.
- Vehicle Safety: Never leave pets in a cold car; it can act like a refrigerator.
- The “Hood Tap”: Outdoor cats often seek warmth under car hoods. Give your hood a quick tap before starting the engine.
Pro Tip: Dog booties or paw balm are great for protecting sensitive pads, and indoor-only time is safest for cats when the frost hits.
Managing the Winter Weight
It’s tempting to give extra treats when it’s too cold for long walks, but those calories add up! To keep your pet at their ideal weight:
- Ditch the “All-You-Can-Eat” Buffet: Measure meals with a standard measuring cup rather than free-feeding.
- The 10% Rule: Treats should never exceed 10% of your pet’s daily caloric intake.
- Get Creative: Use puzzle feeders or indoor “hide and seek” games to burn energy when you can’t get outside.
Don’t Skip the Preventatives
A common misconception is that parasites disappear in the winter. Unfortunately, pests don’t take a vacation. Ticks can be active even on mild winter days, and heartworm-carrying mosquitoes can survive in warm microclimates.
Year-round prevention is the only way to stay 100% protected against heartworm, fleas, and intestinal parasites.
We’re Here For You and Your Pets
Whether you’re coming in for a routine check-up or have a specific concern, our team at Guardian Veterinary-Armory is dedicated to supporting you and your pet every step of the way. Let’s make this their healthiest year yet! Call us at (718) 367-4350 to make an appointment.
