Tips For Being A Responsible Pet Owner

Being a responsible pet owner is more than just bringing home Fido. Similar to bringing home a newborn baby, new pet owners will need to practice patience, dog training and commitment. Here are tips for being a responsible pet owner:

Pet IDing

Pets do not know their given name; and they will be curious. This means that they will wander off to explore their new environment. Pet IDing/dog chipping and collaring is critical during the first few weeks to guarantee that pets do not run away. 

Regular Vet Care

Keep your pets up-to-date with shots and vaccines and follow their behavioral patterns. If your pet isn't 'acting like his/herself' it's probably because something is wrong. Like humans, pets get sick, too; and annual visits to the vet are necessary for puppies. Senior dogs will need to visit the dog more often as complications arise or as owners feel is best for their pets - usually semi-annual visits are common.

Nutrition

The combination of exercise and nutrition go hand-and-hand. Healthy pet foods provide proteins that will energize pets and help them stay lean and fit. As a responsible pet owner, it's important to read labels and know exactly what you are giving your pet to eat. Do not over-or-under feed pets. Give them the recommended food amount that a vet determines is appropriate. Overfeeding can lead to unhealthy dogs (overweight or obese --> causing arthritis, heavy breathing and other health complications.)

Exercise

According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention roughly 56 percent of dogs and 60 percent of cats in the U.S. are overweight or obese. Dogs and cats require at least 30 minutes of daily activity to stay fit; and this can be easily accomplished with the help of pet owners. 

Chase dogs and cats in the fenced-in backyard; throw a ball; or play Frisbee. Exercise is good for both pet and pet owner and will allow for bonding time. 

Summary

February is Responsible Pet Ownership Month; and EasyPetFence.com encourages pet owners to spread the word about how to be a responsible pet owner.