Five New Year's Resolutions That Include The Family Pet

JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. - Jan. 13, 2015 - PRLog -- Whether you’ve created a list of resolutions for the New Year, or have decided to forego it altogether, these five habits have physical and mental health benefits for both you and your furry friend.

“Spending time with your pets should be a daily habit,” said Katie Grant Blakeley, CEO of PetFirst Pet Insurance. “Not only is it way to express love to your pet, but there are a multitude of health benefits.”

1.       Daily walk: According to U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, adults should get 150 minutes of moderate to intense active time every week. By taking your dog for a 30 minute walk every day, you’re getting a moderate workout and great bonding time.

2.       Cuddle with your cat or dog: Spending time with pets has been proven to lower the amount of cortisol in the body, reducing stress. Furthermore, it increases the amount of serotonin in the system which helps one feel relaxed and at peace.

3.       Adopt a cat: While not everyone may be a cat person, simply owning a cat has shown to help lower risks for heart problems. By adopting a cat from your local shelter, you’re also helping save a life.

4.       Sign up for a doga class: No, that’s not a typing error. “Doga” or “yoga with your dog classes” are popping up all over the country. Sign you and your canine counterpart up for a class. It’s a great opportunity for you and your pooch to socialize, while also reaping physical benefits.

5.       Bake for your pet: For many, baking is a relaxing past-time. A simple online search yields hundreds of results for cat and dog treat recipes. By baking them yourself, you can be sure which ingredients are being fed to your beloved pet. It’s also cost efficient—no more purchasing expensive, processed treats for your furry friend.

These are just a few ideas to help spend more time with your pet in 2015. Whatever you do, the most important thing is to spend time together and make sure you and your pet practice an active, healthy lifestyle together.

About PetFirst

PetFirst is the fastest growing pet insurer in North America offering easy-to-understand lifelong coverage for dogs and cats. PetFirst’s comprehensive coverage is unique in the industry providing simplified policies with coverage for hereditary, chronic and breed-specific conditions with no per-diagnosis limits.  PetFirst offers pet insurance in all 50 states and the District of Columbia through animal welfare agencies, retailers, employers as well as other partners.  PetFirst polices are underwritten by American Alternative Insurance Corporation (Munich Re) which is rated by A.M. Best as A+.  Additional services are underwritten by Lloyd’s.  For more information about PetFirst pet insurance, visit www.petfirst.com (https://www.petfirst.com/about-petfirst/pet-insurance-new...) or call 877-894-7387.