As we welcome 2026, many of us are jotting down personal goals—eating better, moving more, or finally starting that hobby we’ve put off. But as pet parents, our lives are uniquely intertwined with the animals who share our homes. Their happiness is our happiness, and their well-being is often our top priority.

Whether your friend has fur, feathers, scales, or fins, the start of a new year is the perfect opportunity to deepen your bond.

Here is how you can make 2026 the best year yet for every member of your pet family.

Two years ago, in the grey chill of November, I lost my soul-dog, Ikaroa. Losing her right before the holiday season felt like a cruel joke. The world was hanging tinsel and blasting Mariah Carey, and I was barely remembering to breathe.

Whether you lost your baby yesterday, last month, or five years ago, the holidays have a way of tearing the scab right off the wound. And I’m here to tell you something that maybe you haven’t heard enough: You are allowed to be sad.