New Year, New Goals!

Happy New Year everyone.

I hope that 2020 is going well so far. This year, I think all of us as pet owners should strive to do better for our pets. Here are some suggestions for ways to be a better pet owner.

1. Feed a better food. Food quality makes a huge difference in the health of your pet(s). Because of this, we should all try to feed a better food this year. That can mean different things for everyone. Feed a better kibble if that’s all your pet eats. Introduce wet food into your pet’s diet. Introduce fresh, homemade (make sure it’s balanced) or raw food. Just make sure to keep portions correct.

2. Help your pet lose weight. To go along with the previously mentioned suggestion of better food, make sure you are not feeding too much. Extra pounds make your pet more likely to have health problems so help them to get that extra weight off. Exercise, feed less, use lower calorie treats, etc.

3. Exercise and play more. If you have a dog, make sure to walk them as often as you can. Play with your pet(s) to make sure they get mental stimulation as well as exercise. You are your pet’s caretaker and are responsible for making sure they get to experience fun.

4. Take your dog to the vet on a regular basis. This one is important. Dogs in all places are at risk of vaccine-preventable diseases, parasites, and other illnesses. The best way to protect your pet and get things diagnosed and treated is to regularly visit a vet.

5. BE A BETTER DOG OWNER. This one is specifically for dog owners. Frequently dog owners get a “bad rap” because of a small number of owners who ARE irresponsible. Because of these “bad” owners, dogs are frequently banned from public places and are prohibited from activities. Be better and do better. If you’re out in public with your dog, CLEAN UP after him or her. No, it’s not the most pleasant thing but it is YOUR dog and therefore YOUR responsibility. Teach your dog to have good manners and to be friendly. If your dog is not good with people or other dogs, etc. don’t bring them out in public. Follow the law and don’t let your dog off leash in areas with leash laws. Don’t let them run up to people without making sure it’s OK with the person first. I’m tired of seeing people who don’t do these things because honestly, it ruins things for all other dog owners (the responsible ones). If we want people to accept dogs and dog owners in public places then we need to make sure to be responsible.