5 New Year's resolutions for your dog and cat

You may be spending a good bit of time right now finalizing — and, of course, implementing — your resolutions for the new year. Congratulations! Focusing on a happy and healthy lifestyle is a huge investment in your future.

But have you thought about what might be optimal for your best friend and furry companion? Here are some new year's resolutions experts say can benefit you and your pet.

If your pet went on an unplanned walkabout, would your neighbours be able to call you or bring them home? Identification tags are inexpensive and available at most pet stores. Even better: The more permanent form of identification, a microchip, cannot fall off or be removed and can be a lifesaver if your pet wanders farther from home.

America is in the midst of an obesity crisis, and it's affecting our dogs and cats. Too many pets today are overweight, said Dr. Dana Varble, chief veterinary officer of the North American Veterinary Community.

"If your dog or cat was to speak to you, he or she might admit that they are getting too many treats. 'It is getting awfully hard to catch my breath when we play ball and my hips and knees are starting to ache,' your dog might say.

"Your cat might give you a dirty look for allowing the vet to check their weight, and will certainly blame any extra pounds on you. 'The fact that you give in every time I yowl, purr, or rub your legs isn't helping my weight problem,' your cat might say,'" Varble added.

Instead of acquiescing to those plaintive meows or soulful eyes, Varble suggests reducing the amount of food you give at any one meal or feeding. Instead, provide a smaller amount at set times throughout the day to help your pet lose a few pounds.