Dog Ownership Responsibilities

 

Dog ownership is a serious commitment that consists of vital duties. Before you decide to get a dog, you must pledge to be responsible.Responsible dog ownership means more than adoring your dog. When you get a dog, it is not like getting a car loan. When your dog misbehaves, you can’t just trade him in. 

Responsible dog ownership means more than just adoring your dog. It is a serious lifelong commitment that requires time and close attention. Before you get a dog, be sure you are ready to commit to responsible dog ownership. Consider purchasing pet insurance after you get your new dog a large percentage of medical expenses may be covered. You can hardly expect your dog to be fully trained on arrival, so there is bound to be the need for confinement and restraint. Do you rent your home? There is no reason renters cannot be dog owners, but you will need to work with the landlord. Though a social life is important to many people, do friends and dating take up the majority of your free time? Consider whether or not you are willing to make adjustments to your lifestyle to accommodate a dog in your life. If not, now is probably not the right time to get a dog. If you are willing to make changes, consider the time it will take to provide basic needs such as training, grooming, exercise, and veterinary care.  If you or someone in your household has allergies, spend some time around dogs to see if the symptoms can be managed. It is simply unfair to give up a dog for this reason if it can be prevented.

Bonding is not something you can do once and assume it’s finished. The bond with your dog is built during the first few weeks to months of ownership, but maintaining the bond is a lifelong process. Your dog should wear a collar at all times with current identification. Proper identification can help you become reunited with your dog if lost rather than letting your dog become one more homeless pet in an overcrowded shelter. If your dog is suitable for breeding, be a responsible breeder. Mixed-breed dogs, “purebred” dogs with unknown genetic histories, and dogs with heath problems should not be allowed to breed. Your dog should be a quality, healthy purebred with no congenital or hereditary problems. Educate yourself about breeding standards, become involved with a network of responsible breeders and find a veterinarian who can be involved along the way. Always provide plenty of fresh water and an appropriate amount of quality food for your dog. A place of shelter and comfort is also important for your dog’s physical and mental wellness, and exercise is a must. Regular visits to your veterinarian are essential, as they can help you prevent serious health problems and detect minor issues before they become severe. A well-behaved and properly socialized dog is less likely to upset people and pets in public places and will be more welcome at gatherings. If your dog’s misbehavior results in any sort of accident, injury or similar incident, you must take full responsibility for that behavior. 

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