We all want to be the best pet owner, but being the best can be harder than it seems. Owning a pet is not just a privilege, it comes with a lot of responsibility. Our pets depend on us, and we should try our best to give them the best. Follow these six tips for being the best pet owner!
1. Educate Yourself
We often place the blame on our pet for misbehaving, and rarely take the responsibility. However, by taking the time to educate and learn more about your pet, misbehavior may be easily avoided. Learn about your pet’s breed, including how much exercise they need or what nutrition steps you should follow. Knowing the basics on your pet could a long way with bad behavior.
2. Keep Them Active
Each pet is different which requires different levels of exercise. While cats have no exercise requirement, dogs definitely do. For example, Labs, Greyhounds, and Golden Retrievers can spend up to 80 percent of their time awake moving, which means they need lots of play time. Food-dispensing toys are great for both dogs and cats because it can help keep them active.
3. Be Diligent with the Vet
Visiting your veterinarian regularly is vital to maintaining your pet’s health. Animals age fast and may not show any signs of illness. One to two visits a year, depending on age, is beneficial for keeping your pet healthy. If you do suspect a problem, don’t hesitate to make an appointment.
4. Detect and Reduce Stress
It may be hard to detect when your pet is stressed, but it is essential to monitor your pet’s emotions because stress increases their fight or flight hormone. Excessive yawning or licking lips, shaking, hiding, and trembling are all stress signs. To reduce stress, determine what causes their anxiety and try your best to calm them. If the vet gives your pet anxiety, simple tips such as getting the carrier out a few days before to bringing their favorite treats and toys to the visit can help calm their nerves.
5. Keep Them Social
Some animals are more sociable than others, but no animal should be antisocial. Taking your dog to the dog park or keeping your cat out when you have guests over are ways to boost your pet’s social activity. If your pet is scared of strangers, have them meet on neutral territory and give the stranger treats to give your pet.
6. Celebrate Birthdays
While we all love getting a new puppy or kitten, don’t forget to celebrate your pet throughout their lifetime. Celebrating your pet’s birthday with a new treat or toy shows them your love and affection!
Lisa Landman is a strong advocate of adopting pets and has six rescue dogs! Want to see photos of her pets? Check our her dog gallery or Twitter!