If you think the holidays are overwhelming, you can imagine how it feels for your dog. From the countless parties and people and all too much food (we know you’ve snuck them some leftover snacks, too!), the routine can head out the window throughout this joyous season. Fortunately, the slow, winter months are coming where you can both breathe a sigh of relief over some much needed R&R. Follow these new years, new pet tips for a new, improved Fido.

Life is Just a Walk in the Park: Get in Shape!

From power walks to fetch races, there are countless active games you can play with your pet throughout the year. Don’t forget that just because it’s cold, doesn’t mean it’s time to become a couch potato! After all, an inactive dog often becomes destructive and depressed. Make a plan on how to mix up your routine before the year ends to keep you accountable once January starts. From mixing up your daily route to keep things interesting or heading out on a run to increase stamina, the time to get out there is now!

He is What He Eats

While many of us feed our pets better than we feed ourselves, there’s no time like the present for a little reminder. An overweight dog can cause many health problems, so be sure to find out the right weight for its breed. If he’s too heavy, it’s time to start cutting those calories. Many owners eyeball food, but measuring out the proper amount can help them drop some pounds. The recommended feeding guidelines are often on each bag. There are many varying factors that affect type and quantity of food, such as age and activity level. If you aren’t sure the right food choice for your pup, ask your vet!

A Little Love Goes a Long Way

Love is one of the most important things we have to give - and our dogs give us so much of it, they deserve a little, too. Especially after your dog has exercised, eaten, used the bathroom outside or otherwise done an action that you’ve requested, give him attention! Don’t forget, though, offering attention at the wrong time can reinforce negative behaviours - so be careful.

Play the Day Away

Running after a ball isn’t just exercise. Did you know it can enhance many of your pets hidden talents? Next time you’re putting away that squeaky toy, keep in mind a few more minutes of play can help keep his mind sharp and focused, increase his social skills and the best part? It creates that anti-stress moment that will help you both forget about whatever happened that day. Sounds like a win-win to us.

Don’t forget - goals aren’t just for people! What’s on the top of your list for your pet in 2019?

Yahoo! Check out this great behind the scenes look of what goes into running an animal photography studio.  Hint: Way more than puppy licks and camera clicks. 

(Click on the image to make it bigger)

Face the facts: our animal friends are honorary family members - and they simply deserve the best when it comes to the holiday season. Whether you wrap Fido’s presents in the most glamourous paper you can find or put Princess’ catnip in a paw shaped stocking, we’ve put our experience to the test while combining the hottest trends of the season to put together this list of the top 10 must have toys and treats for the season!

FOR THE PUP THAT NEEDS THAT EXTRA BIT OF STIMULATION - ALL THE TIME
Kruuse Buster DogMaze Bowl

Snack time meets time to play with this fun-filled food game. Available in a variety of colours to match your decor (and your pooches individualized tastes!), you’ll have a blast watching your pup chase the food as he stays motivated until all the food is out of the bowl.

Buy Now on Amazon.ca
Photo Cred: Canada-K9

FOR THE CAT THAT STILL HAS THE KITTEN IN HER - NO MATTER HER AGE
Zoom Rotating Laser Cat Toy

Remember the days that you used to run a laser pointer across the floor and walls and watch kitty run after it? Not only did it provide many laughs for you, but it got your four-legged friend up and active from her afternoon nap. The PetSafe Zoom rotates a full 360 degrees that can give multiple kitties multiple fun!

Buy Now on Amazon.ca
Photo Cred: Amazon.ca

FOR THE DOG THAT LOVES TO MIX IT UP..AND A LITTLE FUN FOR YOU, TOO
BarkBox Monthly Subscription Box

This might be as much of a gift for you as it is for your dog - because you’ll be super excited to open this delivery on a monthly basis and see what fun is in store! You’ll receive a whole new collection of treats and toys that’ll hopefully keep her entertained until next month, making playtime exciting again!
Buy Now on BarkBox 
Photo Cred: Refuge Mary Sue

FOR THE FELINE THAT FEELS BETTER BEING PAMPERED
PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge

Purrfect for your feline friend - you’ll ensure she doesn’t scratch your furniture and has her own stylish lounger that can seamlessly fit into your living room decor - and can be considered condo-sized, too ;). Did we mention cats actually prefer to scratch cardboard over anything else?

Buy Now on Amazon.ca
Photo Cred: Amazon.ca

FOR HEALTH AND WELLNESS FOR YOUR BEST FRIEND
Dog Bowl Water Bottle

If you and your best friend like to get out and get active, it’s important for both of you to keep hydrated! While there are dozens of doggy concoctions that we’ve found to keep your dog cool, we’re digging this option right now that will ensure your pet will stay hydrated on every hike. With just a squeeze, the attached bowl fills and all excess water drains back into the bottle. 

Buy Now on Uncommon Goods
Photo Cred: Uncommon Goods

FOR THE DOG WHO FINDS HIMSELF TO BE A LITTLE TOO ADVENTUROUS, A LOT OF THE TIME
Pod GPS Tracker

While we are a fan of GPS pet locators in general, one that we’re really loving right now is Gibi Pet Locator. Some of our favourite elements include its tough, waterproof, lightweight, perfect for the active dog. In case you’ve lost your bestie, you’ll be able to source him at the speed of light with Google Maps. And since you can’t place a price on your furry friend, $199USD seems like a steal!

Buy Now on Pod
Photo Cred: Pod GPS Tracker

FOR THE KITTY THAT’S A LITTLE RAMBUNCTIOUS AND ALWAYS READY FOR PLAY
Petstages Tower of Tracks Cat Toy

Any Amazon Choice is a toy we’d like to try and this tower is no exception! With 3000+ reviews and an awesome sale price, these three levels of tracks will keep your kitty entertained for hours. Did we mention its intellectually stimulating - which is just as important for your cat than your dog! Both mental and physical fun? Score!

Buy Now on Amazon.ca
Photo Cred: Amazon.com

FOR FIDO, WHO LOVES TREATS BUT NEEDS TO BE KEPT BUSY, BUSY, BUSY
Kong Wobbler Treat Dispenser

No Christmas wish list would be complete in our eyes without the addition of one of the world’s most durable dog toys: Kong. If your pup has never tried the Kong wobbler, it’s about time. This full-of-fun toy is action packed for those hours when your friend just needs to keep a little bit more occupied. When your dog pushes it with his nose, it wobbles, spins, whirls and dispenses treats as it goes! How fun is that?

Buy Now on Petsmart.ca
Photo Cred: Hound About Town

FOR ANYONE WHO HAS A GREAT SENSE OF STYLE AND LOVES CAPTURING THEIR BEST FRIENDS AUTHENTIC MOMENTS
A Gift Certificate for Jason Krygier-Baum Animal Photography

We think we’ve saved the best for last.. because what’s more important than moments and memories? Jason Krygier-Baum Animal Photography specializes in beautiful metal and canvas wall art and we’re jumping for joy in anticipation of a day well spent capturing your loved one in an exciting an interactive photoshoot. I have always been fascinated by animals and transformed my passion into a career in photography. Combining forces with animal trainer Angus, we make the perfect pair to create a meaningful and unique art of your pets (something like this)!