Being a Responsible Pet Owner from Paulding Humane Society

Paulding Humane Society -- Dallas Georgia

Being a Responsible Pet Owner

Being a Responsible Pet Owner
Being a responsible pet owner is much more than just providing adequate water, food and shelter for your pet. Domestic pets are completely dependent on their owners for their welfare.

• Owning a pet is a lifetime commitment. If you can't make the commitment, don't get the pet.

• Choose a pet that fits your lifestyle. Don't get a high energetic dog, if you don't have the time to exercise him. If you can't afford grooming or can't do the grooming yourself, pick a low maintenance dog.

• Spay or neuter your pets. There are too many homeless animals without adding to the problem.

• Don't make your dog a "backyard dog". Dogs strive on companionship and need to be with their human pack.

• Be aware of weather conditions. Leaving your dog in the car on a hot day or in the yard without shade or water is risking your dog's life.

• Make sure your home is "pet" safe. Pesticides, medications, household cleaners and some houseplants (dieffenbachia, philodendron, hyacinth, and mistletoe) can be deadly to your pet. Keep them out of reach.

• Provide veterinary care for your pet. Keep their vaccinations up to date and make sure they have annual checkups.

• Keep identification tag on your pet... it is your pets ticket back home. Both dogs and cats need ID!! Microchipping is good too, but an external tag is essential, it could mean the difference of your neighbor returning your pet to you or turning him into the pound!

• Obedience train and socialize your animal.

• Don't let your pets run loose. Dogs should be walked leashes. Any outdoor off leash access should be secure in a fenced area. An outdoor cats average lifespan is 3 years, an indoor cat's average lifespan is 14 years.

• Provide your pet the proper diet. Obesity can be as deadly as malnutrition. Be aware that some foods can be deadly, such as chocolate, and fatty foods can cause pancreatitis.

• Make sure your pet get proper amount of exercise.

From the American Kennel Club

Among companion animals, dogs are unmatched in their devotion, loyalty and friendship to humankind.

Anyone who has ever loved a dog can attest to its hundred-fold return. The excitement your dog shows when you come home, the wagging tail at the sound of the leash being taken from its hook, the delight in the tossing of a tennis ball, and the head nestled in your lap-those are only some of the rewards of being a dog owner.

Owning a dog is not just a privilege-it's a responsibility. These animals depend on us for, at minimum, food and shelter, and deserve much more. If you are considering taking a dog into your life, you need to think seriously about the commitment that dog ownership entails. If you already have a dog, you need to consider if you are fulfilling all your obligations as its owner.

The AKC is committed to helping dog owners raise happy, healthy dogs. The list below is certainly not exhaustive, but it contains some of the essential ways you can be the best dog owner you can be.

CLICK HERE for to view a selection of 101 suggestions from the AKC.

being a responsible pet owner, paulding county humane society