This year, resolve to be the best pet owner you can be

Just as the holidays always bring new pets to homes, the New Year always brings resolutions. That means it's time for some New Year's resolutions for people with new pets.

The resolutions listed here come from Jill Allen, director of the St. Charles Humane Society; Sue Gassner, education director of the Humane Society of Missouri; and Randy Grim, founder and director of Stray Rescue of St. Louis.

Some of the resolutions apply to not-so-new pets, too. Procrastinators can think of them as reminders if they like.

At first glance, the list seems a bit intimidating. But it's really just the longer version of one simple vow. To wit:

"I resolve to be a responsible pet owner."

This list just tells you how - the first resolution is the most important:

- "I will give this pet a loving home for the rest of its life."

Animals are capable of feelings. Like children, none are alike and none is perfect. They are a lifetime commitment. They require work, patience and love. And they return far more than we could ever give.

So much for the generalities. Now let's look at the specific things new pet owners should resolve to do in 2006:

- Spay and neuter your pets (rabbits included). This not only can prevent pet overpopulation, it also can reduce or even eliminate the risk of reproductive cancers in the future. Also, neutered male animals tend to be less territorial and less aggressive.

- Have your pets vaccinated, and resolve to have regular veterinary checkups. Be sure to ask your vet about heartworms and flea and tick control.

- Make sure your pets have proper, up-to-date identification at all times. Ask your vet or humane society about permanent microchip identification. ID tags should be current and be attached to collars that fit properly. Don't let collars grow tight on growing pets.

- Enroll your new pooch in obedience classes. Too many pets are relinquished to shelters because of behavioral problems that a few lessons in basic manners would have prevented.

- Don't allow your pet to wander outside unattended. It's illegal, and it's dangerous. He could get lost, stolen or hit by a car. He could contract a disease or be poisoned. Dogs should be on a leash unless in a fenced area. Cats should be in a harness or in a specially screened cat enclosure.

- Bring the cat indoors and keep it there. Indoor cats live longer, healthier lives.

- Bring the dog indoors. Dogs are social animals. They want to be with other dogs or with us, not tied out in the yard by themselves, where they are at the mercy of dangerous animals and humans. If you must tie your dog outside, do not leave it tied up without food, fresh water and adequate shelter and do not leave it outside for more than eight hours a day.

- Clean up after your pet. It's not only the nice, neighborly thing to do, it's the law.

- Make sure your pet always has fresh water, nutritious food and a safe environment.

- Groom your pet regularly.

- Make sure your pets get enough exercise.

- Spend time with your pet every day. Spending time with a pet is as good for us as it is for them. Even small pets, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and gerbils, need attention. They also need clean bedding, stimulating toys and a roomy habitat.

- Teach your children how to treat pets with kindness and respect.

- Teach your children how to care for your pets - but do not put children in charge of their care without your supervision.

- Do not allow dogs to ride unrestrained in the back of a pickup truck.

- Take part in some of the many pet activities sponsored by animal-welfare organizations. Dog walks and carnivals and such are fun for both pets and people, and supporting them supports worthy organizations.

- Remember that pets are part of the family and should be included when making major life changes, such as moves or divorce.

- Include your pets in family disaster plans.

- Include your pets in your estate planning.

- Consider adopting a companion animal for your pet. Even cats like company.

- Educate yourself. Learn what to expect from your pets and how to cope with their idiosyncrasies. Talk with veterinarians, local animal shelters, trainers and other pet owner-guardians. Remember: There are far more bad owners than there are bad pets.

Reference: www.stltoday.com

Return to the index...

This article has been viewed 1090 times.