Lots of people resolve to get in shape in the New Year, but let’s not forget our furry companions! Not only do they need exercise, they can make fun workout buddies too. We’ve got some ideas to burn calories with your pet plus some indoor games to beat the winter blues.

Shape Up with Your Pet
Before you start, you may want to consult with your veterinarian or schedule a routine exam, especially if your pet hasn’t been very active. If you have our Level 3 or 4 plan, a yearly check-up is covered.

Get Fit with Fido
The snow may be falling outside, but there are still plenty of ways to exercise inside with your dog. Get your heart rates up by running around the house together using a toy or ball as motivation. For an upper body work out, try an energetic game of tug-of-war.

Aerobicize with Kitty
Interactive games can get you and your cat moving. Try attaching a string to your belt loop and encourage your cat to chase you from room to room. To work your arms, tie a cat toy securely to a ruler and move it up and down for your cat to jump at.

Be careful your pet doesn’t chew apart and swallow any toys or strings after you’re done. But remember, if an accident does happen, we can help you manage the veterinary bills.

Did you resolve to get more exercise in 2012? Don’t forget your pet! Regular physical activity can help you and your pet slim down, but that’s not all. It can build muscle and bone, increase circulation, aid digestion, improve sleep, and even boost your moods.

Before starting a new exercise routine for your pet, you may want to consult with your
veterinarian or schedule a check-up. If you have our Level 3 or 4 plan, a yearly exam is
covered.

Here are some suggestions to burn calories with your furry friend:

For dogs…
It may be chilly this month, but you can still bundle up and enjoy a brisk walk or run with your dog, or take a hike in the woods where trees can protect you from the wind. Be careful of slippery ice and snow, and brush your pup off when you get home to help avoid frostbite.

If you have trouble getting your dog to go outside when it’s cold, these tips from the ASPCA might help.

For cats…
The ASPCA doesn’t recommend letting your kitty outside in the winter, but there are plenty of ways to exercise together indoors. Pretty much any interactive toy will get your cat jumping around – just be sure to join in the fun and get your heart rating going as well.

As you think about your own resolutions for 2011, add a few for your pets! Even small changes can have a big impact on their lives.

Here are some suggestions from our friends at the ASPCA.^®

1. Schedule a check-up. An annual visit to the veterinarian can help prevent illness. Our wellness coverage on Levels 3 and 4 covers an annual exam.

2. Brush up on dental health. Check your pets’ teeth and gums at least once a week, and talk to your veterinarian about good dental care.

3. Exercise with them. Play chase or fetch and enjoy some time together. Dogs need 30 minutes of physical activity twice a day, while cats require at least 15 minutes of interactive playtime a day.

4. Watch their diets. Overweight pets can be at risk for health problems. Extra weight on a pet can be comparable to a human carrying an extra 30 to 50 pounds. Cut down on treats and use a well-balanced pet food.

5. Pamper them. Give your pets some extra love, like a good long scratch or a warm cuddle. It’ll make you both feel good!

From all of us at ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, we wish you and all the furry members of your family a healthy and joyous New Year!

This content is not intended to provide advice on individual pet health or behavioral matters or to substitute for consultation with a veterinary doctor.