Recommended New Year's resolutions for responsible pet owners

By ALMA J. BUELVA

AS pet lovers we always try to do the best we can for our pets, but there's always room for improvement. A fresh year gives everyone a 12-month clean slate to do better in the pet parenting department, and keeping a list of pet-oriented New Year's resolutions might help.

Below is a list of recommended New Year's resolutions, some of which, if not all, should make sense to every responsible pet parent out there. See which of these applies to you.

Writing down or just committing oneself to a pet-related New Year's resolution should keep pet owners focused on what they must do in the next 12 months or more.

PET-CENTRIC NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS
* I will not leave my pet alone for grooming. If possible, grooming will be done at home.

* I'll have someone trustworthy to care for my pet, preferably at home, if I'll be away for long.

* My house will be pet-proofed to avoid accidents and damages.

* Before leaving for work or some errands, I'll ensure my pet has enough safe distractions till I return home.

* I will not leave my pet with other people or take it to places where it will become anxious and scared.

​* I will look for new walking or jogging routes for me and my dog to explore.

Keeping a dog on leash when in public places is for the good of all.

​​* I will try to teach my pet a useful command, routine or trick this year.

* I will make oral hygiene part of my pet's regular upkeep.

* I will set aside some money as insurance for my pet's sudden medical needs.

* I will respect the personal choices of others who are not into pets.

* I will not spoil my pet rotten so it doesn't become clingy, obese or lazy.

​* I will regularly give my pet a massage to feel its body for any potential health issue.

Unless absolutely necessary, refrain from leaving your animals in cages, especially tight cages that limit their movements.

​* I will play and bond with my pet more.

* I will consider having my pet microchipped for safety reasons.

* I will read up more about my pet's breed to understand and provide for its needs better.

* I will monitor my pet's health closely and follow its vaccination schedules.

* I will keep photos, videos and diary of my pet to remember everything when my pet is gone.

​* I will not abandon my pet at all costs.

Remember that pets will be pets. They don't mind getting dirty, so don't get too upset when they do.

* I will shelter my pet from the heat and the rain.

* I will come to the aid of an animal in need, even if it's not my pet.

* I will only cage my pet when absolutely necessary or for medical reason, and only for a short time.

* I will keep my dog on leash when in public places, but at home they should be free.

* I will keep handy the number of at least two good veterinarians or clinics.

* I will not force my pet to reproduce for personal gains.

* I will have my pet fixed if I don't want it to breed.

Finally, remember that pets will be pets. They don't have enough capacity to always understand and do what would please us, so be more patient and reciprocate their unconditional love with more affection. Happy New Year!!