Article Title: Responsible Dog Ownership
Author: Eric Gehler
"What makes you think you're ready for that kind of
responsibility?
It's probably the first thing that most parents will say when
their kids ask for a family pet, especially a dog? Most of us
with dogs in the family have either said it, or can recall it
being said to us some time ago. But it's safe to say that
question isn't just for kids. Any dog owner, or a potential
canine parent, should ask this of themselves. The thing is, even
though the World Wide Web is a great tool for researching "all
things doggy", oftentimes too much information can be
overwhelming. You've probably come across lists of 100 (or more)
tips for responsible dog ownership.
As dog lovers, we think the abundance of resources on doggy
ownership is great, but we also come from the school of keeping
it simple. Because even though there are definitely some
standards of care to uphold, many issues relating to dog care
are relative and depend on breed and preference (yours and your
dog's). So for the sake of this article, we'll focus on three
simple points to remember when asking yourself, "am I being a
responsible dog owner?"
Protect your pet from sickness and injury:
This includes annual check-ups at the veterinarian, and making
sure that your dog has a healthy diet. If you notice anything
out of the ordinary with his coat, weight, or waste, consider
changing his diet and contact his vet if it persists. Other
things to watch out for are fleas, ticks, and poisonous
household items and plants within your pet's reach.
Consider your neighbors:
More than just keeping more intimidating breeds out of your
neighbors' way for their safety and peace of mind, considering
your neighbors and community means, cleaning up behind your pet.
Also, prevent or manage incessant barking. Generally speaking,
teach your dog obedience, and clean up after them-always. Your
pet is your responsibility and should not be other people's
burden.
Avoid Unwanted Litters:
By avoid we don't mean wait until your dog is pregnant and
ignore the situation. Take care of a problem before it exists by
keeping female dogs in heat properly protected. That way she
won't be vulnerable to other dogs, and you won't end up with an
unwanted litter. So, check with the vet for birth control
methods. And this goes for your male dogs too. You don't want to
add to the overcrowded population of unwanted dogs, so think
carefully before you breed. It shouldn't be an accident.
However, if it happens, have a plan.
Overall, a responsible pet owner protects their dogs, considers
others, and breeds (or not breeds) responsibly to avoid unwanted
litters. There are a hundred plus choices to make within each
one of these points, but with all things, do what works best for
you and your dog's situation. Consult the veterinarian when
unsure (and sometimes when you think you are sure), and lastly
consider others around you. With that, you then can consider
yourself a responsible dog owner.
About The Author: We support Healthy Dogs with healthy treats
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