Are you a dog owner or are you are aspiring to be one? If yes, it is essential to know what dog ownership entails. Responsible dog ownership means that you are aware of all you need to do to provide your pet with the best care. Greater Bank, for example, supports responsible dog ownership. You can get more information on this at Greater Bank’s financial guide to own a dog. Let us discuss some things that make for responsible dog ownership.\
- Getting a pet or pets which are suited for you
It is not advisable to get a pet on impulse. Consider where you live, your schedule, and your lifestyle, and determine if your pet will thrive under the conditions you will offer. If you want more than one pet, be sure that you can provide them with the food, shelter, healthcare, and attention they need.
You do not want to leave your pets alone for long periods, that is, more than 8 hours, as they will be frustrated. If you cannot be adequately available for your dogs, get someone to keep them company.
- Taking care of your dog’s health
– Proper nutrition
Quality nutrition involves giving your pet food made specifically for it. Your pet shouldn’t be feeding on your food remains. You should visit your vet doctor for advice on what food is best for your pet. The vet should also direct you on the amount you should feed your dog based on its age, body mass, and other factors.
You need to be around to feed your dog at least twice a day at intervals of no more than 12 hours. Also, provide your dog with adequate water. Carry water for your pet wherever you go.
– Hygiene
Your dog should live under immaculate conditions. Hygiene begins with;
- Brushing its teeth daily to prevent gingivitis.
- Cleaning its body at least once a month. Some dogs may need more regular cleaning.
- Brushing its fur to get rid of parasites that hide under its coat.
- Cleaning the dishes it feeds in.
- Ensuring that its water container is cleaned and refilled at least twice a day.
- Making regular visits to a vet
Your dog needs regular healthcare. Even when it is not sick, you should schedule visits to a vet for a general checkup to ensure your dog is always healthy. Vaccinations are also an important aspect of your dog’s life. Avoid giving your pet medicines prescribed for humans and always get professional medical help.
– Watch your dog’s weight and fitness
Walk your dog religiously, for at least 30 minutes daily. Exercise will keep your dog’s weight in check and help in proper brain development. Interacting with other dogs during exercise will also save it from boredom.
- Control your dog’s reproduction
Prevent litter accumulation by using options such as spraying your dog. Though praying is the easiest method to use, it is risky and is associated with cancer and other diseases. Other less risky but more difficult to access alternatives you can go for include carrying out a vasectomy, tubal ligation, and neutering.
- Your dog should not disturb other people
It is your work to make sure that you supervise your dog and keep it in control. Keep your dog from people or other dogs if it gets aggressive. Train it to be more sociable. If your dog makes the environment untidy, clean up. Some areas may have laws against letting your dog loose as you could lose sight of it and it could run off and cause damage. To be safer, always keep it leashed unless it is in a dog park.
Many responsibilities come with dog ownership. Give your dog the kind of conditions and care you would a family member. More importantly, familiarise yourself with regulations of dog ownership in your area to avoid falling on the wrong side of the law.
