Adding a dog to your family can be one of the most fun, rewarding things that
you can do. However, many people don't see past the cute puppy and realize that
owning a dog is a lifetime commitment with certain responsibilities. Responsible
dog ownership goes far beyond just keeping the animal fed and watered. Your dog
depends on you to feed him, care for him, keep him healthy and spend time with
him. It isn't fair to just stick your dog outside or in his kennel and never
spend any time with him. Dogs are very social animals and they need time with
their family. So before you bring that cute little puppy into your home, know
what you are getting into and what your responsibilities will
be.
Vaccines
There are certain vaccines, such as rabies, that are required by
law and you must get them for your dog every year. Other shots that are highly
recommended include Distemper, Adenovirus, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza,
Parvovirus, Corona virus, Bordetella, Lyme Disease, and Giardia. These vaccines
help to keep your dog healthy so that he will be with your family for a long
time.
Vet Care
Your dog should have a check up by a veterinarian at least once
a year. If you have a special needs dog or a dog that is older, you may need to
see your vet more often. Certain breeds also have specific health risks that may
be associated with them. Larger dogs, for example, can be prone to hip dysplasia
which can cause a great deal of pain for the dog. It is important that your dog
see the vet regularly so that you can ensure he is receiving the best possible
care.
Spay or Neuter
Unless your dog is going to be bred, you should have him
or her altered. Males are neutered and females are spayed. This means that they
can not reproduce. There are several reasons for doing this, the number one
being more altered animals means fewer unwanted animals. The pet population
explosion, as it is called, leaves countless dogs and cats at the mercy of a
very cruel world because there just aren't enough homes to go around. If every
pet owner would do the responsible thing and spay or neuter their pet (even
inside animals) we would have fewer unwanted strays, the shelters would not be
overcrowded and the pet owners would have healthier animals.
Nutrition
Of
course you need to feed your dog and make sure that he always has clean, fresh
water, but it really goes further than that if you want a healthy dog. There are
many different types of dog food on the market, some are high quality, and some
are not. Ask your vet for recommendations on food so that you can be sure that
you are getting your dog the best possible food with the most nutritional
benefits. Better yet, ask your vet what he feeds his dog.
Education
A well
behaved dog is a happy dog. If you have a dog that is out of control, jumping on
everyone and being a nuisance, no one will want to spend time with him. He will
be a very lonely animal. You owe it to your dog to train him. Obedience schools
are located in just about every city. Many pet stores offer dog obedience
training, as do some vets and animal welfare groups. Make sure that your dog is
pleasant to be around so that he will not be isolated due to undisciplined
behavior.
Time and Attention
Bottom line, your dog needs your time and
attention every day. Walk him, play with him, pet him and give him your
attention. Dogs need socialization and they need attention. If you can't devote
at least an hour out of your day to spend with your dog, maybe you should think
about getting a goldfish or turtle.
This article was written by Kelly Marshall of www.ohmydogsupplies.com -
your top store for dog supplies including dog steps.Article
Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/being-a-responsible-dog-owner-what-you-should-know-893437.html
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