[caption id="attachment_48011" align="alignleft" width="200"] Image: Erin K.[/caption]

Well, it's the beginning of the New Year and with that come lots of resolutions. According to the University of Scranton Journal of Clinical Psychology published 12.13.2013, 45% of Americans will make resolutions this year with most emphasizing some sort of self-improvement. Why not include your four-legged friends? Considering that over 50% of American cats and dogs are overweight, try resolving to improve the quality of life for your entire family - it may even help you stay committed. It should come as no surprise that weight loss and exercise top the self-improvement resolution list, but since our four-legged family members rely on us for their diet and exercise, try applying the same weight loss and fitness techniques to them this year.

  1. Diet: Portion control is one of the top issues when it comes to weight loss. Knowing exactly how much you are eating is crucial to your efforts. Vow to measure your food as well as your pet's every time.

  2. Exercise: You don't have to join a gym to get more exercise, just make it a habit to walk your dog at least one more time a day. Cats aren't off the hook; play with your cat each day to provide mental and physical stimulation.

  3. Physical: Make an appointment for that yearly physical for both you and your pet to prevent or catch any medical conditions.

So start the New Year off right by focusing on positive lifestyle changes for both you and your pet. Need more ideas? Click here.

Upcoming Events:

Mark your calendars and plan to visit Braxton’s as they host local rescue organizations in January. These are perfect opportunities to meet some of the wonderful pets available for adoption.

January 4, 2014: Rescue Animal Placements will visit Braxton’s from 11-4.  For more information, click here.

January 12, 2014: Join Delco SPCA at Braxton’s from 12-3.  For more information, click here.

January 18, 2014: Animal Rescue Foundation from 9-3. For more information, click here.

January 26, 2014: Francisvale from 1-3. For more information, click here.