Owning a dog is a HUGE responsibility, almost as big as having a kid so it is important to consider all aspects of the job and be prepared when bringing a new animal into a home. The American Kennel Club promotes September as Responsible Dog Ownership month, so we want to share a few facts and tips with you about how to be the best dog owner you can be!
Consider Your Options
Deciding to get a dog should not be a spur of the moment decision. It is important to first consider the amount of responsibility a dog is and if you have the time and resources to take care of him/her properly. Another important aspect to consider is your lifestyle. Are you working all the time, do you have yard space for the dog to run, do you have time to train a puppy or would an older dog be better for you? All of these and many more are questions you should consider when deciding to get a dog and then further deciding what kind of dog to get.
Preparation
Once you have made the commitment to owning a dog, it is important to be prepared before the dog arrives. Make sure you have all the supplies needed; collar, bed, food/water bowls, food, toys, a good vet in case of emergencies. Not having everything you need to begin with will make the transition that much hard for you and your new furry friend.
Settling In
After you have brought your new dog home, it is important to make him/her comfortable in the new environment. Make sure they are potty trained and know the rules of the house and who is in charge. It is important to spend time with them and make sure they are trained properly so you can have a long pleasant life with your pet. After the initial few months, it is still important to maintain proper care like seeing a vet annually, making sure they have a good diet, grooming and overall health.
Pets can be just as important to people as humans and that is why it is important to treat them with the same respect and care. Owning a dog is a tremendous amount of work but it can also be extremely rewarding. If you need a vet for your four-legged friend or any information about owning a pet visit our website.