Episode 14 - Responsible Pet Ownership
In this episode, Lauren talks about how to be a responsible pet owner. She gives some great tips on pet ownership and how to advocate for your pet.
Show Notes:
What does being a responsible pet owner mean?
American Kennel Club gives us a great starting off point: “Owning a dog is not a privilege-it’s a responsibility.”
Commitment.
When bringing a pet into your life you need to be prepared to commit to that pet for the length of their life.
Adopting or purchasing a pet should never be an impulsive decision.
Food and Shelter.
Pets will need consistent access to clean water, healthy well-balanced food, and shelter from the elements, preferably in a home.
It is known that pets who are kept in homes, live longer lives than those who are kept in yards or outdoor enclosures.
Health and Care.
Regular preventative care is key to helping your pet live a long, happy life.
Spay and Neuter.
Don’t contribute to the nation’s or world’s, for that matter, overpopulation issue.
Until every homeless pet has a home, there is really no need for companion pets to reproduce.
Training and Proper Socialization.
Behavioral issues are the number one reason pets are surrendered.
Making training a part of your everyday life for your pet is not only good for your pet but good for your relationship with your pet.
Exercise and Enrichment.
Just as humans need exercise to stay healthy, pets need it as well. It helps keep their muscles, heart and immune system in tip-top shape.
Along with keeping up with your pets physical health, you need to pay attention to their emotional health as well.
Identification.
Make sure your pet is properly identified.
You should also consider microchipping your pet, once done, make sure to register their chip and keep that information up to date.
Preparedness.
If you live anywhere there are natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornados, fires or earthquakes you need to have a disaster plan in place.
You need to make sure you include your pet in those plans and not only have go bags for humans but for your pet as well.
Love.
Show your pet you love them each and every day.
Being an advocate for your pet.
Become familiar with your pets body language.
Speak to vets/ groomers/ care givers if your pet does not feel relaxed and safe in those situations.
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