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Monday, 16 September, marks Pet Promise Day, an opportunity for pet parents to reflect on their commitment to their favourite family member. “It’s a day to celebrate the bond we share with our pets and to renew our promise to give them the best care possible,” notes Marycke Ackhurst, Pet Behaviour Expert from Hill’s Pet Nutrition. “Bringing a new pet into your family can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with great dedication and responsibility. While you may enjoy getting a puppy or kitten, you may not necessarily be ready to commit to taking a pet on at this time.”
Below, Ackhurst shares tips on how to be the best pet parent you can be and ensure your pet enjoys a long, happy, and healthy life.
1. Nourish for life – Providing balanced, nutritious meals is the foundation of good health for your pet. Just like us, our pets’ dietary needs evolve. Choose a science-based pet food like Hill’s that is tailored to your pet’s age, size, and specific health concerns. By feeding your pet high-quality food, you’re ensuring they get the right nutrients to thrive.
2. Make time for play and exercise – Exercise isn’t just about keeping your pet physically fit—it’s key to their mental well-being too. Whether it’s a daily walk, playtime in the yard, or interactive toys, make sure your pet gets plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Regular exercise helps prevent obesity, one of the most common health issues in pets, and strengthens the bond between the two of you.
3. Prioritise vet visits – Routine vet check-ups are essential. Our pets are so stoic and they often disguise being unwell or in pain, so regular health checks can pick up potential issues early on. Schedule annual or biannual vet appointments to keep your pet’s health on track.
4. Understanding their behaviour – Each pet is unique, and understanding their body language and unique signals will help you meet their emotional needs. For example, some pets may need more reassurance or patience in new situations. Tailoring your care to their individual needs fosters a stronger relationship.
5. Use resources
Hill’s Pet Nutrition launched Pawpedia to help pet parents access a wealth of information on responsible pet care. From healthcare advice, Pawpedia is a go-to guide for anyone looking to enhance their knowledge; use the search function to find the topic you want to know more about. It’s a one-stop resource for all pet-related information because, being a good pet parent means educating yourself on what’s best for your pet.
6. Create a safe and loving environment – It goes without saying that your home should be a haven for your pet. Ensure your space is free of hazards and create a cosy spot where your pet can relax and feel safe. Provide them with affection, snuggles, love and attention daily as just like us our pets thrive on love and connection.
7. Make a promise this Pet Promise Day – Take time this Pet Promise Day to pledge to always prioritise your pet’s health and happiness. Whether it’s by improving their diet, dedicating more time to play, increasing your knowledge about their care and wellbeing, or simply showing them more love, every action counts. Whether you’re a dog or catparent, take the Pet Parent Pledge on Pawpedia and share it on social media to spread the word about pet welfare and help better the lives of pets all over the world.
For more information visit the Pawpedia website