9 Tips to Be a More Responsible Pet Owner

February is Responsible Pet Owner Month, and we’re taking a closer look at what that means and how you can improve your efforts. Owning a pet is a significant responsibility, as you are committing to caring for and loving your pet for the duration of their life. Before adopting a pet, make sure you consider the space you have available, your finances, your schedule, and your family. Everyone should be on board with getting a pet and doing their part to care for it.

Here are a few ways you can become a more responsible pet owner:

• Identification: At the bare minimum, affix your dog or cat with a collar and identification tag that has basic contact information. For added protection, consider getting them microchipped. Proper identification can make it easier to reunite you with your pet should they escape.
• Healthcare: Schedule regular veterinary and grooming appointments for your pet. Make sure they are in good health and are up to date on any vaccinations as well as flea, tick, and heartworm medications.
• Spay/Neuter: Consider getting your dog or cat spayed or neutered to promote better health, reduce behavior problems, and help decrease overpopulation.
• Clean Up: Keep a supply of baggies handy for cleaning up after your dog when you take them on walks or outings. Pet waste can be toxic to humans, other animals, and the environment, plus it can be unsightly and cause unpleasant odors in the community.
• Safe Space: Pet proof your home to keep your dog, cat, or other animals safe. Double-check that any plants are non-toxic, keep chemicals or dangerous foods out of reach, and make sure there is nothing hazardous they can chew on.
• Training: Teach your dog basic commands such as sit, stay, and come. This can keep them safer and help you manage their behavior. Socialize them around other people and animals, and make sure children know how to appropriately interact with them.
• Exercise: Give your pet plenty of opportunity for exercise and physical activity. You can do this by going on walks, taking them to the dog park, playing with toys at home, encouraging them to go up and down the stairs, and creating fun games to keep them active and entertained.
• Food: Feed your pet a high-quality food that meets their nutritional needs. Avoid giving them a lot of human food or scraps, and know what foods are toxic to animals such as chocolate, grapes, macadamia nuts, and xylitol. If you do share food with them, make it something healthy, such as fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Boarding: If you are going to be out of town, don’t leave your pet all alone. Board them at a reputable facility where you know they will be safe, and their needs will be met. Dogs and cats are social creatures, and they need stimulating interactions. Plus, you never know what kind of trouble they may get into when you’re not home.

Lake Wylie Pet Resort has separate spaces designed especially for dogs and cats where they can play, socialize, relax, and sleep while being safely supervised. We also offer grooming services so your dog is looking its best when you return. Be a more responsible pet owner and contact us today to schedule your pet’s next stay.