Choosing to be a pet owner is like choosing to parent a child. Be responsible enough to ensure they are happy and healthy. Every pet owner should want the best for their pet. Below are some tips on how to become a responsible pet owner.
Choosing Your Pet
Becoming a responsible pet owner does not begin when the pet arrives in the house. It starts when you decide to get a pet. It is ideal to ensure you get a pet that suits your home and lifestyle. If you make a poor decision, you will live with an unhappy animal in your house.
It is essential to consider the following:
If you want a cat or dog. You may also want another animal. Dogs need more care and attention than other pets.
If you have enough space in your house.
How often you will be present in the home.
If you have time for grooming, maintenance, and regular walks.
If you can afford to maintain a pet.
It is ideal to consider the breeds available and ones that suit your living conditions.
Pet-proof Your House
Find out what household products and meals can cause harm to your pet. If you are getting either a cat or dog, below is what you should do:
Install gates if you need to confine your dog within an area of the house.
Move rubbish and food out of reach.
Secure electrical wires or move them out of reach.
Install a cat-flap.
Remove any toxic plants in the house.
Install a scratch post to keep the claws away from your couch.
Put your shoes away. Fence your whole section to secure your dog.
Buy or build a kennel to keep your dog comfortable.
Provide a Well-balanced and Nutritious Diet
Your pet relies on you for a well-balanced and nutritious diet. If you are not sure what pet foods will work best for your pet, consult your veterinarian for recommendations. As you continue knowing and interacting with your pet, you will understand what they like and do not like.
Diets vary from one breed to another. Find out about the diet of your prospective pet. If your pet reacts after you feed them something, you should rush them to the veterinarian. With time, you will know about the nutritious diet that suits them.
Ensure Your Pet Is Healthy and Vaccinated
Protect your pet as they are vulnerable to diseases when they are young. Ensure you take them to the vet for regular checkups and treatment. Your vet will check their dental health, give diet recommendations, and ensure their health is okay.
It is also ideal to ensure your pet becomes spayed and neutered for a long and healthier life. Doing so also helps your pet not to have behavior problems.
Care About Your Pet’s Emotional Health
It is essential to ensure the emotional health of your pet is okay. Do you know if you are giving your pet enough exercise and attention? Like human beings, pets need to exercise and burn off the food they eat. Regular walks and exercises serve as bonding time and help prevent health problems.
Pets need mental stimulation for learning and staying out of trouble. Buy them lots of toys for entertainment. Also, take them to play in different environments. Be intentional about giving them company.
For more on being a responsible pet owner, visit Highland Veterinary Clinic at our office in Evansville, Indiana. You can call 812-710-4300 today to schedule an appointment.
