Have you ever considered setting a New Year's goal for your pet? Keeping New Years resolutions is notoriously hard for all of us but getting your pet involved could benefit your pet & help you reach your own health goals more easily. Many studies have examined the interesting link between owning pets and our health. The American Heart Association says having a pet, especially a dog, is connected to a lower risk of heart disease and more physical activity. This link goes beyond just taking dogs for walks – it taps into our basic instincts and how we've learned to be social as humans.
Doing something nice for our pets like switching them to a healthier diet & committing to make time for play makes our brains release chemicals that make us feel good. This reward system for being kind and helpful may even help us adopt healthier lifestyles for ourselves along with our pets. A study with 60 dog owners, shared in Frontiers in Veterinary Medicine, shows that both dogs and their owners benefit when they work together on weight loss. Understanding our connections with our pets and our own health can motivate us to make changes that not only make our pets' lives better but also help prevent serious health problems for us as humans.
Working With Our Pets To Reach Health Goals Can Have Serious Benefits.
Nutritional Awareness:
When pet owners prioritize the health of their animals by choosing nutritious diets like Simply Raw, it often leads to increased awareness of dietary choices for themselves.
Research indicates that pet owners who commit to providing healthier food options for their pets also tend to make positive changes in their own diets.
Getting into the routine of consistently choosing healthy food options for our pets can helps us make healthier choices for ourselves over time
Physical Activity and Mental Health:
Regular physical activity is not only essential for pets but also beneficial for pet owners. Engaging in activities like daily walks, play sessions, or even agility training with pets encourages physical exercise for both parties.
The bond formed during these activities can positively impact mental health by reducing stress and providing companionship.
Getting outside frequently has big effects on the mental health of our pets and our own well being. Making plans to go outside with our pets or even to visit a dog park or other outdoor dog-friendly area can provides benefits for both parties and help us feel more connected.
Healthy Habits Beyond Diet:
Making time for play, ensuring regular veterinary check-ups, and providing mental stimulation for pets contribute to a holistic approach to their well-being. This commitment to our pets' holistic health can help us to prioritize our own health in the process.
Adopting healthy habits for pets can translate into a more mindful and balanced lifestyle for pet owners. Studies demonstrate the link between a pet-centric focus on well-being and improvements in human health. This New Year is an opportunity to work with our pets to build habits together that may be more lasting and effective than trying to make a lifestyle change on our own.
Building a Supportive Community:
Pet ownership fosters a sense of community. Whether it's chatting with other dog owners at the park or participating in pet-related events, pets can provide an avenue for social interaction.
Social connections are integral to mental well-being for both us and our pets. The support and camaraderie among pet owners can positively influence various aspects of our own lives and provide social opportunities for our pets to make friends too.
Where To Start: Not sure where to start on a health journey with your pet? Here are some ideas of common health areas of interest that you and your pet might want to focus on this year.
Weight Management: Battling Pet Obesity
Pet obesity rates have been on the rise, posing significant health risks for our furry friends. Obesity in pets can lead to various issues, including diabetes, joint problems, and a decreased lifespan.
Choosing a nutritionally balanced diet that won't spike blood sugar levels, such as Simply Raw®, can aid in weight management by providing essential nutrients from whole foods without unnecessary fillers. Regular exercise, portion control, and a commitment to a healthier diet can help pets shed those extra pounds and improve their overall well-being. Developing a routine of making healthy food like Simply Raw for your pet each day can inspire you to take a little extra time to do the same for yourself.
Hip & Joint Support: Preventing Arthritis in Pets
As pets age, joint health becomes crucial. Pets of all ages can benefit from providing hip and joint support through supplements or specially formulated foods like Simply Raw. Bone broth & other anti-inflammatory supplements like
Nature's Diet® Hip & Joint Bone Broth & Norwegian Salmon Oil can be essential in preventing arthritis and maintaining mobility. Simply Raw® includes collagen & whole food ingredients that support joint health built in to our formula, contributing to your pet's overall agility and comfort. Regular exercise, especially low-impact activities like swimming or gentle walks, can also play a crucial role in preventing joint issues. Adopting a healthy lifestyle & focusing on long term preventative joint care for our pets can help us to make similar changes in our own lives & increase our awareness of our own joint health.
Whole Food, Grain-Free Raw Diet: Diabetes Prevention
A whole food, grain-free raw diet like Simply Raw can be instrumental in preventing the onset of diabetes in pets. High-quality, biologically appropriate ingredients help regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of diabetes. This dietary approach not only supports overall health but can also be beneficial for pets predisposed to diabetes or those with a history of blood sugar issues. Becoming aware of what our pets are eating can increase our ability to make smart choices in our own diets. Opting for meals that include whole food protein sources and low glycemic carbohydrates like sweet potatoes can benefit our health. When we get into the habit of making sure our dogs are getting enough daily fiber to keep their blood sugar in check & promote regular stools, it can help us to focus on providing ourselves with the same level of care.
SkinHealth: Addressing Allergies and Excessive Shedding
This year you may be looking to improve your pet's skin health or cut down on excessive shedding. Did you know that many skin issues and allergies in pets (and some in people too!) can be linked to dietary factors? Switching to a raw, whole food diet can have a positive impact on skin health. Simply Raw®'s natural and high-quality ingredients can help address skin problems, reducing excessive shedding and alleviating dry, itchy skin. A nutrient-rich diet, combined with regular grooming, can promote a healthy coat and skin for your pet. Making sure that you and your pet are well hydrated can prevent dry skin, especially in less humid climates.
Increased Exercise: More Walks and Outdoor Adventures
Committing to more walks with your dog is an excellent way to enhance both physical and mental health for you and your dog. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, improves cardiovascular health, and strengthens the bond between pets and their owners. Whether it's a leisurely stroll or an active hike, outdoor activities contribute to a more active and fulfilling lifestyle for both pets and owners.
Importance of Play: Enriching Your Pet's Life
Play is a vital aspect of a pet's life, providing mental stimulation, relieving stress, and strengthening the human-animal bond. Investing in interactive toys, engaging in play sessions, and encouraging natural behaviors can contribute to a happier and more fulfilled pet. Did you know that all of our Nature's Diet® powdered supplements can be used to make a creamy treat perfect for treat toys and lick mats? Consider mixing your favorite supplements into a creamy treat for your pet to get their brains stimulated. Prioritizing playtime can be an enjoyable and rewarding way to improve your pet's overall well-being and a good reminder that making time for ourselves to play can improve our mental and physical health too.
Dog Dental Health: A Critical Element of Pet Wellness
Dental health is often overlooked but is crucial for a pet's overall well-being. Poor dental hygiene can lead to various health issues, including heart and kidney problems. Simply Raw®'s natural composition can contribute to dental health, and incorporating dental treats or regular brushing into your routine can further support your pet's oral hygiene. Prioritizing dental care helps prevent issues and ensures a lifetime of happy smiles for your furry friend. Sometimes mental health challenges and daily life responsibilities can get in the way of our own ability to care for our oral health as humans. Focusing on providing a higher level of care to our pets' dental health can help us to prioritize our own and establish a consistent daily routine with our furry companions.
A Holistic Approach to Health
The well-being of pets and their owners is intricately connected, and prioritizing the health of one can lead to positive changes in the other. From dietary choices to increased physical activity and mental well-being, the bond between pets and their owners creates a ripple effect that extends to various facets of a healthy lifestyle. By choosing Simply Raw® for your pet, you're not only enhancing their life but also setting the stage for a healthier and happier journey for yourself and your family.
As you embark on this new year, consider the holistic impact that prioritizing your pet's health can have on your own well-being. Here's to a year filled with shared joy, health, and vibrant living for both you and your furry family!
Nature's Diet® Nurture with Nature
Holistic, Natural Raw Food & Supplements for Dogs & Cats