A Fresh Start for Four Paws: Your 2026 Pet Wellness Checklist

Woof Company
Jan 2
3 min read

Happy New Year! As we settle into the first week of January, many of us are busy setting goals for our own health and routines. But what about our pets?

After the excitement and occasional chaos of the festive season, the beginning of the year is the perfect time to reset your pet’s environment. From a toy box clear-out to a nutritional check-up, here is how to ensure your dog starts the year feeling their absolute best.

1. The Toy Box "Audit"

Over Christmas, the toy basket probably got a bit overstuffed. Now is the time for a safety check.

Inspect for damage: Look for split seams, exposed stuffing, or cracked rubber. Broken toys can become choking hazards or cause digestive issues if swallowed.
The "Clean Sweep": Give durable toys a good scrub and throw soft toys in the wash to remove built-up bacteria and slobber!
Rotate: If they have too many toys, put half away. Reintroducing them in a few weeks makes them feel brand new again.

2. The "New Year Clean"

Winter in Essex means one thing: mud. Between the lanes and the local parks, your dog's gear takes a beating.

Wash the Bedding: Winter dampness can lead to musty smells and even skin irritation. A high-heat wash for beds and blankets is a great New Year reset.
Check the Fit: Give their harness and collar a look. Are the buckles still sturdy? Has your dog filled out over the winter, making the fit a bit too snug?

3. Restock the "Pet Pharmacy"

Winter paws and coats need extra TLC. Check your cupboards to ensure you’re stocked up on the essentials:

Paw Balm: Vital for protecting pads against the salt and grit on the roads.
Shampoo: For those inevitable muddy belly-washes.
Antiseptic: To ensure minor scrapes don't become a problem.
Dental Care: Start a fresh routine for 2026 to keep those pearly whites healthy.

Need a top-up? We’ve restocked the shelves at My Pet Barn with our favorite natural grooming essentials to help you beat the winter elements.

4. Review the Bowl

Is your dog’s food still tailored to their current life stage and energy level? As dogs get older, or as their activity levels change during the colder months, their nutritional needs shift.

Treat Cupboard Clear-out: Natural treats and chews can sometimes get lost at the back of the cupboard. Take a moment to check for any older packets that have lost their crunch or gone past their best, making room for fresh, healthy rewards.

The Freshness Check: While main meals rarely sit around long enough to reach an official expiry date, the way we store them matters. Check that your storage bins are clean and that bags are sealed tightly. This prevents the fats in the food from going rancid and keeps everything tasting fresh.

Quality Check: Take a look at the ingredients in their daily meals. If you are looking to move toward a more natural, tailored diet this year, we can help you find the right fit. Just pop into My Pet Barn to have a chat!
Treat Audit: Swap out processed, sugary treats for more natural alternatives that actually support their health.

5. Set New "Adventure Goals"

January can feel a bit sluggish, but it’s the best time to set training intentions.

Master a Skill: Maybe 2026 is the year your dog finally masters loose-lead walking or a "bulletproof" recall.
Controlled Play: If you want to let your dog burn off steam without the worry of the "winter mud-pit" in public parks, our secure field hire in Linford is open and ready for action. It’s the perfect spot to practice those New Year training goals in a safe, private space.
Plan Your Care: If you have holidays planned for later in the year, now is the time to secure your boarding and daycare dates. Our "home from home" environment at Woof Company fills up fast!

Here’s to a Happy, Healthy 2026!

Taking an hour this week to check the "small things", from the state of their lead to the quality of their treats, ensures your dog is as ready for the year ahead as you are.

Pop into My Pet Barn this week to say hello and grab your New Year essentials. We can't wait to see you and your pups back at the farm!