It’s 2023! How we got here, nobody knows. But, we’re happy to be moving away from the last few years, which were challenging for many, and into what we hope are brighter days ahead. In keeping with the annual New Year’s tradition, we also want to share some of our favorite pet parent resolutions that will help you connect with your pet and enjoy your time together.
Focus on Quality Time
Quality Time is a very important part of pet parenting. It’s also one of the Five Love Languages for humans. According to Blinkist.com, “People who speak the love language of quality time want to be the object of their lover’s undivided attention. They want to feel cherished and prioritized, and rather than receiving gifts, words, acts, or touch, they prefer to simply spend meaningful time together.” I think it’s safe to say that our pets want this too.
Quality time is about, well, quality not quantity. Even a few minutes twice a day can be a hugely beneficial experience for both pet and pet parents. If all you have time for is a quick petting session, some snuggles on the couch, or a short trip to the yard, just be present with your pet in these moments. They know when we’re paying attention and when we’re distracted. Put the phone away, take in the scenery, and connect with your pet in a way that makes them feel loved.
Add Enrichment Toys & Activities
Enrichment keeps our pets moving, thinking, and problem-solving. Using their minds and bodies keeps them young and healthy. This year, consider purchasing an enrichment toy for your cats and dogs. Most cats love to hunt prey and would enjoy a rechargeable mouse toy to chase and catch. Dogs have many different interests but most are keen on enjoying a yummy treat from time to time. For dogs (and cats with a taste for snacks,) consider a snuffle mat that you can fill with kibble or treats so they have to use their nose to find their goodies. Again, when they are using their brains to problem solve, dogs and cats engage essential cognitive abilities that help ward off boredom and may delay cognitive decline.
Another way to enrich a pet’s life is by getting them exercise. There are many dog sport clubs in Connecticut that are constantly looking for new members. There are also dog walking groups and fellow pet lovers that would love to connect with neighbors while walking their dogs or cats. Check out the DogHood App to find any interesting groups near you.
Enrich Their Environment
Another way to provide enrichment, especially for cats, is to enrich their environment with wall shelves they can climb, cat trees, scratching posts, and hiding spots. For dogs, environmental enrichment usually means adding different smells and experiences to their lives.
Indoors, you can hide treats in places where your pet has to search for them. Outdoors, you can safely walk your dog on a leash, take them hiking, or hire us to take them on hiking adventures. Cats too can enjoy finding treats indoors but don’t limit yourself and your kitty friends to indoor activities. Consider making 2023 the year you harness-train your cat. If that’s too ambitious for you or your cat, consider taking your cat out in a specialty backpack or stroller so they too can enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors.
Being outdoors stimulates pets’ senses and breaks up the monotony of always being within four walls. No matter the pet’s age, species, breed, or otherwise, a sniff or romp outside can significantly improve their life.
To learn more about our services, new client referral program, and adventure hikes, please contact us at info@cthappypaws.com or call 860- 964-0464. May 2023 be the year you and your best friend get the opportunity to live it up together.
