Responsible Pet Ownership Month — A Guide For Pet Ownership
Bringing a pet home is an exciting time, but learning how to be a responsible pet owner requires consistent dedication. Pets give us unconditional love, and in return, we take care of them to strengthen the bond and show gratitude. But there's more to taking care of your new buddy than just a bowl of food or a game of fetch. Pets require a few things from their owners to keep them happy, healthy, and full of life.
Regular Exercise
It's tempting to spoil your pet and make them as comfy as possible, but ensuring they get enough exercise and aren't lying around and eating treats all day is important. Regular activity helps keep their bones and joints strong and also keeps their weight healthy.
Pets need time in nature and movement to feel their best! Even just a short walk with pups or a feather chase with kitties brings wagging tails and purrs, and helps improve their moods. Just like humans, pets need regular physical activity to improve cardiovascular functions and reduce potential health risks. It's especially important for breeds prone to heart conditions.
Unlike humans, most pets aren't entertained by watching TV or playing video games. If they're bored or lacking stimulation, they may engage in destructive behaviors like chewing, digging, scratching furniture, and excessive barking and meowing.
Here are some fun ways to get your pet the exercise they need:
- Morning walks: Spending 10 minutes walking in the sunlight is good exercise for your pet (and your own health!) — plus, it's a great way to start the day.
- Playdates: Part of learning how to be a responsible dog owner is socializing your furry friend. Invite your friends' pets over and watch them all play together. Be wary about introducing toys, as they can cause fights. If you do include a toy, make it interactive or include an abundance of options. Ensure that the dogs are secured by a dog fence so you can contain any bad behavior and keep them safe while playing.
- Explore together: If there's a pet-friendly park, nature reserve, or beach nearby, take your pet out for a walk and explore nature together. The different terrain will also help build strength and mobility and make them excited about exercise.
Note that whenever you take your pets out, they should be on a leash. It's crucial that you get them micro-chipped and attach a name tag to their collar in case of emergency.
A Secure Shelter
Letting your pets wander freely on the streets is never a good idea. They risk being lost, falling prey to other animals, or getting injured. It's important to give your pets a secure space that they know is their home.
To be a responsible cat owner, consider providing your kitty with a safe and secure yard. You can add the Easy Pet Fence cat fence conversion kit to your current fence so your feline can explore the yard safely without the risk of escaping. Another option is to build a catio to give your kitty a safe place to play while still enjoying nature. Cats have a reputation for being little Houdinis, so ensure the gates have no gaps and are climb-proof. Include cat trees and other fun activities in the catio or yard to ensure your feline is entertained and doesn't try to seek stimulation outside the enclosure.
Responsible pet owners can keep their dogs safe by building them a play area where they feel protected and in control. Some dogs may try to climb over the fence, squeeze through or even dig under it to escape. A gap fence barrier kit can tighten up those areas and prevent your dog from squeezing under the gate. If your dog is a super strong digger, you can install any of our fence rolls and flare it 6–12" along the ground. Flaring it towards the base will prevent them from digging, and even if they do, they won't get out easily. A fence can also help your dog socialize with other dogs while preventing fights.
Pet owners all know the fear of their pets running away when a storm erupts or if they are frightened by fireworks. A fence allows you to safely escort your pet indoors without the fear of them running away or getting injured when scared.
Vet Care and Nutrition
Although your pet may look and seem healthy, some diseases don't show signs in the early stages. Responsible pet owners plan for regular vet check-ups to help prevent some health conditions from occurring or worsening. Wellness exams can allow professionals to note possible concerns and work on ways to prolong your pet's life.
When you take your pet to the vet, keep them in a secure carrier or on a leash at all times so they don't get loose or get into an altercation with another animal.
What you feed your pet is also crucial. Both cats and dogs require quality proteins and nourishing ingredients to keep their joints flexible and their coats shiny. Be careful not to feed your pet “human” food, as some ingredients, like garlic and onions, can poison them. Keep potentially toxic items like chocolate on a shelf that's out of reach.
Bonding With Your Pet
A big part of responsible pet ownership is understanding that you're not just there to provide shelter and food — you are your pet's favorite person. They likely crave attention, cuddles, playtime, and care from you. Bonding with your pet can also help you feel happier and loved.
Set time aside to take your dog out for a walk or enjoy a round of fetch together. Play interactive games with your cat or reward them with their favorite treats. Even just sitting with them while they play or napping with them strengthens the bond.
Bonding is not all fun and games, though. It's also about teaching your pets discipline, which could keep them safe in a potentially dangerous situation. For instance, teaching your dog to “stay” or leash training them empowers you to safely remove them from threatening situations.
Protect Your Pet With Easy Pet Fence
Your main duty as a pet owner is to keep your pet safe and help them feel loved. At Easy Pet Fence, we stock a variety of fencing solutions for cats, dogs, and even chickens to help keep your animal friends secure. We value your pet's safety, and we're always open to talking to you about your fencing needs and concerns.
Feel free to contact us via our website, chat with an expert online or place your order through our 24-hour call center by calling 888-514-3059.
