As we make New Year's Resolutions for ourselves, why not include our four-legged family? Here are our Top 5 Resolutions for Pets- let's make the new year a great year!

October 12 is National Pet Obesity Awareness Day, causing many pet owners to pause and reconsider before handing over that extra treat or dinner table scraps. That's exactly what the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) hopes this day will achieve--a rethinking of our everyday habits that might add weight to the scale at their next veterinarian visit.

A favorite activity among outdoor enthusiasts is hiking, and for those who own a dog, it’s an even greater adventure when your four-legged sidekick comes along for the fun. Regardless of the season – whether flowers are blooming or leaves are falling – hiking is great exercise and a wonderful bonding opportunity for you and your pup. However, as with all adventures involving a pet, safety is essential to ensure it’s a positive experience.

Many new dog owners are surprised to learn that their puppy doesn’t instinctively know how to walk politely on a leash. They understand the reality quickly during the first few walks, when their new little fur friend is bolting until they run out of leash or tugging the entire way. Mastering the leash is something that requires training, and it’s surprisingly easy if you know what to do.

Dog water safety is top of mind for dog owners in the warmer months, as families venture out to lakes and oceans or enjoy time in their own pools. Of course, we all want our dogs to come along for these aquatic adventures. Still, there’s a certain amount of anxiety that comes with summer water activities – especially if you’ll be distracted by young children or a large group of people.

We’ve all experienced cabin fever and the stir-craziness that comes with the winter months, and, unfortunately, this happens to our pets too. And while it can be tempting for the whole family to melt into the couch for months of Netflix-watching, this inactivity can lead to obesity in your dogs. In turn, obesity can lead to other harmful conditions such as diabetes and/or arthritis.

The warm weather has returned, which means the prime hiking season has begun! If you have an adventure pup that is your faithful companion on the trails, you may be wondering what you need to do to make sure they can recreate safely as well. While hiking with your hound can be a fun-filled day of adventure and a good source of dog exercise, there are certain things you can do and pack and other things you can avoid to make sure the day doesn't go awry.

It's safe to say that most of us are bored these days. It seems forever ago that we could grab dinner or a drink with our friends; go to concerts or to the theater; or enjoy one of the many markets, festivals, or other events.

But have you considered that your pet may be bored as well? Maybe they used to accompany you to a market or brewery, or they were used to hanging out with their own pet pals when you went to the park. Sure, they’re happy you’re home more, but that can lead to even more frustration for you if you’re working from home with a bored dog.