In the spirit of New Year’s resolutions, we want to ask you, how are you maintaining your dog’s health? No matter if you have a new puppy or an older canine, keeping them healthy and mindfully happy is a must. Here are a few tips from our pet hospital near McAllen on how you can exercise your dog’s body and mind!

Reinvent Walking Your Dog

A Few Tips to Help You Exercise Your Dog’s Body and Mind | Valley Animal Hospital | McAllen Pet Hospital

  • Re-enhance your furry pal’s sensory play with long walks in areas with plenty for him/her to see, hear, smell, and taste.
  • Change your daily walking route to let your furry loved one explore new areas.
  • If at all possible, change the time of day you go walking to increase your dog’s curiosity. Or take him/her to a dog-friendly park to socialize with other dogs.

Prioritize Play Time

A Few Tips to Help You Exercise Your Dog’s Body and Mind | Valley Animal Hospital | McAllen Pet Hospital

  • Use his/her favorite toy for games and to learn new obedience behaviors.
  • Upkeep your pet’s searching skills by simply hiding his/her favorite toy around the yard or house.
  • Get creative and play hide-and-seek with your pet. Offer bits of their favorite treats as a reward for finding you, too!

Reshape Behaviors

A Few Tips to Help You Exercise Your Dog’s Body and Mind | Valley Animal Hospital | McAllen Pet Hospital

  • Training your dog may seem difficult, but this bonding experience will allow you both to understand each other more innately.
  • Teach your furry friend new complex behaviors and draw his/her attention away from less desirable habits.
  • Reshaping your dog’s thought process can also change other behaviors that he/she holds and helps them to stay observant and alert.

Are You Concerned About Your Pet’s Behavior?

A Few Tips to Help You Exercise Your Dog’s Body and Mind | Valley Animal Hospital | McAllen Pet Hospital

Valley Animal Hospital offers different wellness programs and care to ensure your dog’s health. Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have!