Ten Obligations of a Responsible Dog Owner

1. Don’t get a dog unless you can afford the upkeep including an annual
veterinary examination, vaccinations and potential emergency care.

2. Make sure your dog has identification, preferably by microchip.
(See free article at http://www.toybreeds.com/microchips.htm)

3. Don’t let your dog roam unsupervised and don’t walk him without a leash
in urban areas.

4. Know and obey your local and community laws and rules on dogs.

5. ALWAYS SCOOP POOP when out on walks. Put it in a plastic bag for
placement in liter container.

6. Worm your dog regularly throughout the year – it’s not just a summertime
need.

7. Provide him with a balanced, high quality dog food and continual fresh
clean water.

8. Have adequate insurance. This may include pet health insurance but definitely
includes homeowners and liability insurance. Any dog can bite – repeat, any
dog can bite. Protect your home and assets with insurance.

9. Don’t let your dog jump up or rush people and other dogs. You have no right
to complain if a stranger uses a mace-like spray on your dog if you’re letting
him run loose.

10. MOST IMPORTANT – respect the views and rights of others. Not everyone
loves dogs as much as we do. These people, however, have a right to peaceful
walks or bike rides, clean yards and quiet enjoyment of their backyards!

Louise Louis is a certified canine specialist and
creator of the popular website on small dogs,
http://www.ToyBreeds.com