Every new year brings with it the certainty of many lists of new year's resolutions, the blank canvas on which to do things to enhance your health, sleep, weight, or diet, or reduce the previous year's destructive forces.

Many resolutions, unfortunately, fail in less than a month. Why not make resolutions to become a more responsible owner instead of self-centered solutions?

This will assist you in ensuring a happy and healthy new year for both you and your dog. If you mentally prepare and create precise, reasonable goals, your resolutions are more likely to succeed. The following suggestions to help your dog's health in the new year:

This Year, Take Better Care Of Your Dog

Schedule your vet visit today.

Schedule your dog's health checkup now because most veterinary hospitals and clinics are at or near capacity, and getting a wellness appointment could take weeks or even months, so don't wait. Several more resolutions can be checked off at your visit, such as screening for parasites with a stool parasite, completing a heartworm test, and ensuring your dog is up to date on vaccinations.

Consider getting your dog microchipped.

If your dog already has a microchip, make sure it's up to date with the microchip business, especially if you've moved or changed your phone number, address, or email. If your dog (or cat) becomes lost and the information read by a shelter or hospital is inaccurate, a microchip is useless. If your pet does not yet have a microchip, speak with your veterinarian about getting one.

Learn how to brush your pet's teeth properly.

Brushing your pet's teeth at least once a day. Plaque accumulates quickly; therefore, brushing at least once a day is recommended. Use only products that have been approved for use by dogs. Ingredients in human toothpaste, such as the sweetener Xylitol, can be hazardous to dogs. The Veterinary Oral Health Council has more information (vohc.org).

Purchase Pet Medical Insurance.

All dogs, like people, become ill or experience an emergency at some point in their lives. Veterinary treatment might be costly if it is required unexpectedly. Examine the various insurance plans to get the one that best suits your needs. Another alternative is to set aside money each month in a separate account for your dog's medical expenses.

Provide mental and physical stimulation on a daily basis.

Dogs are intelligent creatures who require exercise regularly. Dogs who don't have access to these alternative outlets are more likely to engage in destructive behavior. Daily walks, training, and puzzles are all excellent ways to interact with your dog and provide it with the necessary physical and mental stimulation.

Discuss your diet and weight with your veterinarian.

In the United States, obesity is the most preventable health problem in dogs. A few pounds gained (or lost) can make a big difference in smaller or older animals. Measuring your pet's food daily and substituting veggies for other delights is an excellent approach to keeping them at a healthy weight. Vegetables cooked in butter or sauces should not be fed to your pet. The American Kennel Club's Fit Dog program can teach you more about keeping your dog at a healthy weight.

Don't be a bad dog neighbor.

Always keep your dog on a leash when out for a stroll. Other dogs and humans may be afraid of your dog, even though it is friendly. When your dog is with you, always seek permission before approaching another person or dog. Also, make sure your dog isn't barking unnecessarily and being a nuisance to your neighbor. Proper training can assist your dog in behaving appropriately in your surroundings.

Get rid of pet waste.

Make careful to pick up and properly dispose of your dog's feces wherever it happens to be — whether it's in your yard or the neighborhood when out on a walk — as it might transmit disease.

Arrange for a photoshoot.

It doesn't have to be a professional photographer, but there are plenty of excellent pet photographers out there.

Make sure your dog is trained correctly.

Your dog should be taught proper manners. You can find training programs at several national pet store chains or ask your veterinarian for a referral to a licensed professional dog trainer.