As a pet owner, you are responsible for your animal’s health and wellbeing. This includes providing adequate food and shelter and ensuring they have enough exercise and they receive regular veterinary care.
However, responsible pet care goes beyond the basics.To be a truly responsible pet owner, you also need to take steps to prevent your animal from becoming a nuisance to your neighbors or a danger to the community.
According to veterinarians in Phoenix Veterinary Center, caring for your dog or cat is a responsibility that isn’t taken lightly. After all, they are merely little people in fur coats, and they matter as much to you as your children.”
Here are some tips to help you to become a responsible pet owner:
Be a Good Neighbor
Keep your pet from becoming a nuisance to your neighbors by keeping them well-groomed and trained. Make sure your animal does not bark excessively or jump on people in public areas. If you have an outdoor pet, keep them confined to your property so they do not wander into your neighbor’s yard.
Neuter Your Pet
By spaying or neutering your animal, you can help reduce the number of homeless animals in shelters and decrease the chances of your pet getting lost or stolen. Spayed and neutered animals are also less likely to roam, which can reduce the risk of them getting hit by a car or getting into fights with other animals.
License Your Pet
Most cities and counties require that all dogs and cats are licensed. This is usually done through your local animal control agency or humane society. A license not only helps ensure that your pet can be returned to you if they become lost, but it also helps support the local animal shelter and other animal welfare organizations.
Get to Know Your Pet’s Triggers
If your pet has a history of biting or attacking people or other animals, it is important to take steps to prevent these episodes from happening again. Work with a professional trainer or behaviorist to identify your pet’s triggers and create a management plan that will help keep everyone safe.
Be Prepared for Emergencies.
Always have a B plan in case of any unwanted accidents chip in. Keep a current photo of your animal on hand as well as their license and vaccination records. Know the number of your local animal emergency clinic and have a list of pet-friendly hotels in case you need to evacuate your home.
Educate Yourself and Your Family
Responsible pet ownership starts with education. Learn about the needs of your specific type of animal. Moreover, make sure everyone in your household is aware of the proper way to care for and interact with your pet.
Veterinary Visits
Routine veterinary visits are important for your pet’s health. At these check-ups, your veterinarian will give your animal a physical exam, update their vaccinations, and screen for common diseases. Regular visits also allow you to inspect or inquire about anything from nutrition to behavior.
Proper Nutrition
A healthy diet is essential for your pet’s wellbeing. Converse with your veterinarian about the favorite type of food for your pet and ensure following the set schedule on time. Avoid giving your pet table scraps as this can lead to obesity and other health problems.
Adequate Exercise
Most animals need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Dogs, in particular, require daily walks or runs to keep them from becoming bored or destructive. If you are unable to take your pet for a walk, consider hiring a dog trainer.
Positive reinforcement
Reinforcing good behavior is an important part of responsible pet ownership. When your animal does something you want them to do, such as using the bathroom outside or sitting on command, give them a treat or some other form of positive reinforcement. This will help them understand that they’re behaving in the way you desire and will make them more likely to repeat this behavior in the future.
Comfy Quarters
Your pet should have a comfortable place to sleep and rest. Dogs and cats typically like to have their own bed. But if you have multiple animals, they may feel content sleeping together. Make sure your pet’s bed is in a quiet area away from drafts and is right-sized for them to stretch out and relax.
Banish Boredom
Animals can get bored easily, which can lead to destructive behavior. To keep your pet from getting stir-crazy, make sure to provide them with plenty of toys and puzzles. Take them on regular walks or runs, play catch in the yard, or teach them new tricks to keep them engaged and their minds challenged.
