New Year's resolutions come in many forms -- some vow to finally go on that healthy diet, others promise to exercise more. But whatever the self-improvement, why not include your pet?
The B.C. SPCA suggests while you eat better, the same can be done for pets by reading the SPCA's certified food labelling program with stamps of approval on humanely raised products free of sub-therapeutic levels of antibiotics.
And while you're at it, enjoying more active playtime with your pet is a great way to stay in shape.
There are also ways to be more green while remaining pet-friendly with biodegradable propylene-based antifreeze for vehicles that won't harm animals or the environment.
The SPCA offers a whole of suggestions to improve life for domestic animals.
1. Identify your pet. The SPCA suggests having an identification tag on an animal's collar or have them tattooed or microchipped while spaying or neutering so if a pet is lost, they will be reunited more easily with owners. Visit spca.bc.ca/ID.
2. People can determine where a donation goes within the SPCA organization. The Heroes Fund supports the work of the cruelty investigations team; the Monty Fund supports education and advocacy programs; the Biscuit Fund helps pay for veterinary medical care; the October Grey fund provides daily care in shelters; and the Highest Priority Needs Fund helps injured, homeless and abused animals throughout the province. Visit spca.bc.ca/support.
3. Join the Pets in the City campaign. Dangerous dogs, chained dogs, puppy mills and stray cats are common animal issues British Columbians encounter in their communities. Visit Pets in the City action centre at spca.bc.ca/petsinthecity for more information.
4. Wildlife is often injured as a result of human activity. Properly dispose of items that may harm wild animals, like household cleaners, plastic bags and cigarette butts. Also consider switching to eco-friendly cleaners and use fabric bags instead of plastic.
5. Volunteer. The BC SPCA relies on nearly 4,000 volunteers and has opportunities to volunteer with and on behalf of the animals. Training is ongoing. Visit spca.bc.ca/volunteer for more information.
6. Adopt an animal. A pet of any kind can enrich your life and theirs, too. Visit spca.bc.ca/adopt.
7. Choose food carefully. Make a commitment to purchase foods raised according to high standards of animal welfare. Look for B.C. SPCA certified products in the meat and dairy sections of the grocery store. Visit spca.bc.ca/farm.
8. Keep informed about many issues by signing up for Anim@ls, a free monthly e-newsletter about animal issues, the work of the cruelty investigations team, upcoming event and programs at spca.bc.ca.
