It’s a brand new year with a whole new set of new resolutions. Some easier to keep than others! We believe you should spare a thought for your pet when your making your important life-changing decisions. Since its 2008, here are our top 8 steps to being a perfect pet owner. Add these pet promises to your own resolutions to make sure you both have a great and fulfilling year!

1. I promise to play with you every single day.

Our pets love to play. It provides them with both mental and physical stimulation. It’s great for using up excess energy and strengthening the pet and owner bond. Both cats and dogs alike should be engaged in short interactive play sessions every day. We think you should make this your first pet promise of the year.

2. I promise to feed you a balanced and nutritious diet.

New year is the time we look at our own feeding habits so why not reassess what we are feeding our pets. Its all too easy to fall into “easy” feeding routines but with pet obesity on the rise we think you should use the new year to make sure your pet is getting the best! Make smart choices for your pet, including a balanced diet and supplementation.

3. I promise to keep your coat groomed as well as I can.

Getting dirty is all part of being a healthy happy pet. Getting clean again is not always so much fun! Regular grooming sessions are essential to maintain coat and skin health. Grooming is another great way to strengthen the pet owner bond and if done properly can be enjoyed by both pet and owner alike.

4. I promise to make sure you’re as well behaved as you can be.

Discipline may not always be fun but you have a responsibility to your pet to ensure they know their place within the household and within society. Regular training sessions will keep them behaving properly and avoid any unpleasant behavioral problems.

5. I promise to make sure you’re healthy this year.

A visit to the vets may not be one of your pets favorite promises but it’s an essential one. A yearly vaccination will help prevent a range of infectious diseases and a general health check from your vet can alert you to any early problems.

6. I promise to think about your safety.

Every year thousands of animals are injured or killed on our roads. Does your cat have a reflective collar? Do you keep your dog on a lead at all time? Make a promise to your pet this year that you will do everything to keep them as safe as possible both outside and in the home.

7. I promise to treat you when you have been good.

Everyone loves a treat! Why not reward your pet for good behavior with something they enjoy. Remember, treats are aren’t just about food - attention, praise and exercise work just as well!

8. I promise to make time to give you as much exercise as possible.

One of the most important promises you can give your pet this year is to fulfill their exercise requirements. Busy lifestyles often mean our pet’s exercise sessions get cut short or missed. Make your promise for 2008 - more exercise, more fun and a healthier happier  year!!!
- 2007 Vital Pet Health