September is responsible dog ownership month. Being a responsible pet owner is a year round job, but we thought we’d write a blog about the things you need to do to make you the best owner possible. There are many ways to be a great dog owner, but here are 5 big things to consider to be the responsible owner your dog needs daily.
Get your Dog Registered and Microchipped
Having your dog registered and microchipped is the best decision you can make to ensure they are identified if they ever go missing or get lost. Florida has storms almost every year, so be sure to read our National Pet Preparedness Blog and find out how you can get prepared. Registered microchips provide a quick and effective way for you to be reunited with your pet. Getting a collar for your dog is also a great way to provide identification in times of need. Remember that a collar can go missing or be removed, so a microchip offers additional security.
Feed your Dog the Right Food
Feeding your dog the proper food is one of the best ways to support good development and keep your dog healthy. The right food and nutrition can help with proper physical development, but it can also help develop the mind and put your dog in a great mood. If your dog has specific sensitivities or allergies to food, the food you feed them can be lifesaving or life-changing. The food you feed your dog can also affect their coats, fur, and nails and aid in their dental hygiene.
Underfeeding and overfeeding your dog can be detrimental to their health. An underfed dog risks developmental issues, and an overfed dog risks getting overweight, which puts more pressure on their joints and body and creates a shorter lifespan. If your dog requires a special diet, or if you are looking to change their diet, please consult your veterinarian.
Training and Socializing
Training and socializing your dog is not only excellent for them, but it is also beneficial to you. Training and socialization provides your dog with the psychological stimulation they need for their development and growth. Training your dog basic manners can give you peace of mind having your dog around other people and other dogs. Training and socialization also go hand in hand and reinforce the training cues and lessons your dog is learning. Socialization also helps your dog learn from other dogs, and the playtime is overall good for their health as they are social animals. Similarly, the time you take to train your dog one-on-one is also beneficial to strengthen your bond with your dog.
Make Regular Vet Visits
Just like people, dogs need to visit their doctor as well. Annual visits are essential to keep your dog’s immunizations and medications up to date. In addition to getting vaccinated, giving your dog a general check-up and getting them neutered or spayed for their overall health is important. Your dog’s reproductive health is your responsibility, so be sure to make the right and educated choice in altering your pet. The veterinarian can also possibly spot things you have missed and start treatment right away if necessary. If you notice anything odd or unusual in your dog’s behavior or if you notice any lumps and bumps on their body, please visit the vet as soon as you can. Early detection for some illnesses can be life-saving and can have your dog living longer and better.
Maintain a Schedule
Having a consistent schedule can set your dog up for success and reduce any stress or anxiousness. By having a regular schedule, your dog will learn to expect specific things throughout the day. A routine can be especially beneficial for anxious dogs that don’t do well with disorder or a lot of change. Having a schedule can also help with training and provide comfort in creating expectations throughout the day. Regular walks, play and cuddle times can really benefit your dog’s health and life, so make sure these are a part of a consistent routine.
Responsible dog ownership month aims to teach and help dog owners about dog ownership. There is always room for improvement and dedicating some more time to your furry friends is never wrong. At East Paws, we have years of responsible dog owner experience and hope to apply this experience in our services with your pet. Contact us for more details about the pet services we provide.
