Being a responsible pet owner entails more than just giving your pet food, water and a safe space to live in. A responsible pet owner makes his cat, dog, bird, or whatever animal, a part of the family, spends time with him and makes sure that all his needs are met. Here are 10 habits that make owners responsible pet parents.
1. Commitment
A pet owner commits to taking care of the animal for the duration of his lifetime, in sickness and in health – not just until the novelty of a new pet wears off.
2. Quality food
Buy the best quality food that you can afford. This doesn’t necessarily mean that the most expensive food is the best choice for your pet. Discuss your pet’s nutritional needs with your vet.
3. Regular feeding and fresh water
Ideally, dogs should receive two meals a day to prevent illnesses like torsion (when a dog’s stomach becomes twisted). Puppies should start off with three meals a day. And make sure that your pet gets fresh, clean water every day. Don’t forget to wash his bowls every day too.
4. Loving attention
Your pet should receive some of your undivided attention every day and he should always feel loved. This also means that he needs to be able to trust you and not be afraid of you. Therefore, you always have to treat your pet with respect.
5. Training
Bored pets sometimes get up to mischief or develop behavioural problems. To prevent this, it is important to teach your pet new things. Look at the article on page 54 to see how training strengthens the bond between owner and pet.
Want to read the rest of the article? Get the November 2022 edition of Animaltalk magazine now at retailers, or order a printed or digital copy from www.coolmags.co.za.
