Make pets part of the project.

• Position: New Year's Resolutions - Brief article

As you draw up a list of your New Year's resolutions, keep your pets in mind, suggests Lorraine Corriveau, of the School of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind. Here is her list of New Year's resolutions to benefit pets:

* Spay or neuter your animals, adding more years to their lives and improving their behavior.

* Provide them age appropriate health care so that you develop a good idea about their health and build a relationship with your veterinarian.

* Give them a diet suited to their age and medical condition. Pets kept at their ideal body weight live longer.

Look for foods designed for different stages of life and medical conditions.

* Give them medicines regularly to prevent heartworm and fleas.

* Groom them at home, especially the minor procedures, because it causes less stress.

* Exercise and play with them more often, each day if possible.

* Ask your veterinarian or seek expert advice on behavior problems. A...