Anyone who has a dog or cat can be as attached to it as parents are to their children. So it's only logical that you want to give your dog or cat the best possible care. The more care you give a pet, the more pleasure you will get out of it. Good pet ownership strengthens your relationship with your dog or cat. Caring for your pets goes further than just having good intentions. Keeping your pet healthy is important, but it's also important to think about how you raise your pet and to stay alert to its needs.
Good care demands knowledge
The love for a pet often goes very far. Tarzan the dachshund is allowed to sleep in the bedroom. Tom the cat may sit on the burgundy fabric-covered lounge suite, even when he is moulting. But caring for household pets entails more than just 'spoiling' them. Good care for animals demands a certain amount of knowledge about animals. And although you can pick up knowledge over the years, it is sometimes important to 'bring knowledge home' by calling in an expert: the vet.
Loving your pet is...
- Considering whether a dog or cat will fit in with your lifestyle before you get one
- Preparing yourself for the arrival of a dog or cat
- Ensuring there's a good place where your dog or cat can get some peace. Create a special place for him or her in your home (basket / cushion / blanket)
- Making sure it gets the correct food, depending on its pedigree, age and weight
- Ensuring your dog and/or cat gets enough exercise and fresh air
- Changing your cat's litter tray or cleaning up after your dog on a regular basis
- Visiting the vet every so often in order to give your dog or cat a check-up. After all, they can't speak for themselves...
- Making sure that your dog or cat receives the right inoculations
- Checking your dog or cat regularly for fleas, or ask your vet or vet nurse to.
- Frequently giving your pet a cuddle or a stroke
- Cleaning its teeth every so often
- Ensuring your dog is well trained and will return to you whilst outside safeguarding you, your dog and other people
- Giving your dog or cat lots of love and attention, and taking responsibility for its health!
Would you like to know what your relationship with your pet is like? Try this test
