How To Observe Responsible Pet Ownership Month

Pet parenting is a rewarding experience that will leave picture-precious moments and life-long memories. But, what makes a responsible pet owner? 

Being that February is Responsible Pet Ownership Month, EasyPetFence.com wants to help motivate pet parents to better the lives of their pets by focusing on animal wellness. If pet owners spend more time with and on their dogs and cats, then they will see an improvement in their pet's health and happiness.

Whether you are a new pet owner, or have adopted animals in the past, here are things to consider this pet observance month:

Dog Training

Whether you take your dog to a certified dog trainer near you, or train puppies in the fenced-in backyard, training dogs is necessary for proper growth. Untrained dogs tend to act out, not listen to their owners, and have poor skills.

Training dogs can be fun, especially with the use of dog treats for positive reinforcement.

Teach dogs basic commands at an early age including "sit," "stand," "jump," and "wait." 

Exercise

Dog exercise is increasingly important as the dog ages and should be done at an early age. Physical activities for dogs can be combined with training exercises - making them "wait" for food or "jump" for a toy. These strength exercises help dogs achieve strong bones and will reduce the chance for cardiovascular problems in the future. Dogs that do not get daily exercise end up lethargic - and in some cases, obese. In fact, 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.

Socialization

Socialization is part of improving animal wellness. Whether you take your animal to a dog park, or have a doggie play date in the fenced-in yard, dogs need a safe environment to run and play with other animals.

While at home, dogs and owners should bond and exercise together. By playing catch in the yard with pets, both pet and pet owner will get the 30 minutes of daily activity needed to stay fit. 

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.)

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.

Watch For Wildlife
Wildlife attacks on pets occur more often than we realize. Like us, not all animal breeds get along with each other; and pet owners will need to look out for coyotes, wolves, bears and other wild animals in the yard.

Coyote, wolves and fox attacks on small cats and dogs are the most common; and pet owners should stay on high alert. To rid wildlife from yards, and protect pets from wildlife attacks, it's best to install a pet fence that is at least 6 feet high.

Grooming/Hygiene

Dogs and cats both should be groomed regularly. Matted hair is uncomfortable for a dog and can make them itchy. Remember, fur not only keeps animals warm, but also keeps them safe from sunburns and extreme cold. Gently run a brush through dogs and cats and be sure to check for ticks, especially around the legs, ears and chest. 

Summary

Dogs really are our best friends; and our pets deserve the best. As a responsible pet owner, we want to guarantee their protection; safety; health and well-being. Spread the word about Responsible Pet Ownership this February; and celebrate with EasyPetFence.com.