It’s the time of year when we start thinking about new year’s resolutions. You know the ones, eat healthier, drink less, exercise more, the usual stuff, and I got to wondering if we could combine our own new year’s resolutions with those for our pets and get double the results.

Here’s what I came up with for some great intentions to carry thorough the new year and kick-start 2024 with some healthy pet and owner goals.

First, committing to take your dog for a good walk once daily is wonderful for them and has fantastic health benefits for you.

Not only does it get you both out and about and exercising, but it also causes endorphin release which makes you and your pet feel happy. This is good news for both your mental and physical wellbeing.

You could commit to feeding only healthy food to your pet (and yourself) and cutting out all the high salt and high fat treats that are nothing but junk food.

There is a huge selection of pet “treats” on the market these days. Some of them have great health benefits but others are just bad for your pet and should be avoided.

If you are not sure, ask your vet, we will be happy to help steer you through the treat traps.

Brushing your pets’ teeth daily is the best way to prevent dental disease and avoid an expensive dental cleaning.

Teeth brushing must be a daily event for it to be effective but if you can find the time it really is a huge health benefit to your pet.

Cats can also be trained to have their teeth cleaned so don’t forget our feline friends.

You could enrol in a dog training or socialisation class to teach your pup some new skills and allow you to interact with other pet owning people.

There are also agility classes on the island which can be great fun and good exercise.

Take your pet to a dog friendly café and let them experience new sights and smells or jump in the car for a trip to a new walking location or off leash play area.

Don’t forget that the beaches are open for dog walking in the winter so take your pup for a paddle in the surf and dig in the sand. They will love it.

You could have some family photos taken with your pets. We often forget our four-legged family when the camera comes out so make time to get some great photos for memories that will last a lifetime.

Finally, speak with your vet about any health concerns you have regarding your pet. Life is hectic, especially at this time of year and we sometimes put off getting that older dog’s arthritis checked or booking that wellness exam for the senior cat.

There have been a great many new treatments developed recently to help chronic pain, itchiness due to allergies and ear treatments for example.

Don’t let your older pet struggle as there may be a lot that can be done to improve their quality of life.

Most importantly, spend some quality time with your animals, play with the toy, throw the ball, give them a brush or just sit and be together.

Whatever your new year’s resolutions are we wish you and your fur family a happy and healthy 2024.

• Lucy Richardson graduated from Edinburgh University in 2005. She started CedarTree Vets in August 2012 with her husband, Mark. They live at the practice with their two children, Ray and Stella, and their dog, two cats and two guinea pigs. She is also the FEI national head veterinarian for Bermuda