New Year, New Paws:

Pet Resolutions You Can Actually Keep 

The New Year isn’t just for humans -- it’s the perfect time to set a few healthy, happy goals for your pets too! While your dog probably isn’t pledging to “eat less cheese” and your cat won’t start yoga, small resolutions can make a big difference -- especially here on the Westside, where January still means sunshine and outdoor adventures.

Here are some pet-friendly New Year’s resolutions you can actually keep.

 1. Get Moving—Santa Monica Style

One of the best parts of living on the Westside is that winter is prime outdoor season for pets.

Try:Dog at Beach

  • Early morning or evening walks along Santa Monica Beach during dog-friendly hours

  • Scenic hikes at Temescal Canyon, Will Rogers State Historic Park, or Rustic Canyon

  • Strolls along the Oceanfront Walk or Palisades bluffs with cooler temps and fewer crowds

  • Mixing in neighborhood walks through Sunset Park or North of Montana Avenue for variety

 Vet tip: Always bring water, watch paw pads on sand or trails, and start slow if your pet is getting back into shape.

 2. Reset Routines & Behavior

Holiday chaos can leave pets with inconsistent schedules and bad habits that carry into the New Year.

January is a great time to:

  • Re-establish consistent feeding and walk times

  • Practice leash manners for busy boardwalks and trails

  • Work on calm greetings for cafés and patios

  • Address anxiety after holiday disruptions

A little structure now goes a long way toward stress-free outings.

 3. Make More Pet-Friendly Outings

Make it a goal to include your pet in more of life’s everyday adventures.Santa Monica Pier

Westside-friendly ideas:

  • Dog-friendly patios at Main Street, Montana Avenue, or Ocean Park cafés

  • Early-morning strolls through the Santa Monica Farmers Market

  • Relaxed park time at Clover Park, Reed Park, or Douglas Park

  • Sunset hangouts near the Santa Monica Pier (less busy during winter months)

These experiences help with socialization, confidence, and mental enrichment. 

 4. Rethink Treats (Without Ruining the Fun)

More adventures often mean more treats, so a little balance helps.

Dog Eating TreatTry:

  • Using small training treats during hikes or walks

  • Bringing a portion of your pet’s regular food as rewards

  • Pairing treat-heavy days with extra activity

Your pet stays happy, healthy, and ready for more adventures. 

 5. Mix Mental & Physical Enrichment

Physical exercise is great, but mental stimulation matters just as much.

Ideas:

  • Let your dog safely sniff and explore on canyon trails

  • Bring puzzle toys for calm patio time

  • Practice basic training cues in new environments

  • Rotate toys at home to keep things fresh

Mental enrichment helps prevent boredom, anxiety, and unwanted behaviors.

 A Resolution Worth Keeping

The best resolution you can make for your pet is simple: more quality time and proactive care. Whether it’s beach walks, canyon hikes, patio lunches, or extra playtime at home, these small moments add up to a healthier, happier year.

From all of us at Santa Monica Pet Medical Center, we wish you and your pets a wonderful New Year full of sunshine, sandy paws, and Westside adventures.