We all have things we want to do in 2019. I want to take roads less travelled, dip my paws in uncharted waters and see more of the world. Mark my barks, this year will be adventurous!
For all those humans who think they have all the time in the world to do the things they want to do, I’m here to be a loving interruption. We are not guaranteed any more time than the woof we are making in this very moment. So if not now, when?
Since life seems to fly by in the blink of an eye, I think it’s important to make lists of the things you want to do each year—and that includes finding creative ways to carve out more time with your pets. Be inspired by my list.
TAKE A DAY TRIP
Part of the appeal of a quick road trip is the ability to go on a moment’s notice without the hassle of planning a vacation. Be sure to assemble an on-the-road bag with all the essentials—and pack a spirit of adventure, wherever you and your dog may roam. Even the shortest day trip can deliver memories for years to come.
DO DOGGIE YOGA
This might sound a bit silly, but doing yoga with your dog has many benefits. You get to spend quality time with Rufus or Ginger, and it helps your dog to learn to trust you. Dogs can’t do human yoga poses (though they can perform an awesome downward dog), they’ll like the stretching, some aspects of pet massage and soothing energy. The serenity that is so much a part of yoga spreads to both you and your dog, encouraging a sense of calm and peacefulness.
DIG UP SOME ROOTS
The smarter you are about your dog’s past, the smarter you can be about his future. Genetic testing can help identify breeds and specific health issues that may be important to the health and happiness of Pongo or Perdita. You can work with your veterinarian and use the results to come up with a training, nutrition or even long-term healthcare plan.
LEARN CANINE CPR
It’s best to be prepared for any situation, especially when it comes to your pet. Your dog could suddenly go into cardiac arrest, or suffer a seizure and stop breathing, while you and White Shadow are away from home. Having some basic training in CPR could start the process of helping your dog before you get to the vet—and can save your pet’s life.
Sometimes, the days fly by so quickly you want to find a referee to stop the clock. Lucky for us, 2019 still has plenty of ticks on the ticker—364, to be exact. If you need some inspiration to try something different, let this be your push. You don’t need to travel the world to have an invigorating new year with your best friend.
Remember, pets thrive from the time they spend with you. Make the most of the year with your four-legged friend before it’s 2020 already!
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Davi the Dachshund has a wanderlust he can barely control. Hey, hit the highway!
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