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Responsible pet ownership - what does it mean?
A pet is a friend for life and can bring untold joy and reward to your family, providing companionship, affection and health benefits, as well as teaching children responsibility and compassion.
However, owning a pet is also an enormous responsibility which should not be taken lightly. In the last year, around 135,000 sick, injured, lost, neglected, or abandoned animals passed through RSPCA shelters across Australia. The RSPCA cares for livestock and exotic animals as well as native wildlife, however the vast majority of animals we receive from the community are domestic pets.
Pets come to the RSPCA for many reasons. Some have been cruelly treated or neglected and are seized by RSPCA Inspectors. However, many others are simply no longer wanted: because the novelty of a kitten or puppy has worn off; because poor training or socialisation have led to behavioural problems; or, because the owners circumstances have changed and they have no room in their lives for their loyal best friend.
Your new pet will depend on you completely to keep it safe, happy and healthy, so you need to be sure that you are willing and able to meet this significant responsibility before bringing home a new family member.
Some questions you need to consider before you buy a new pet include:
- Why do you want a pet? – for companionship, protection or exercise?
- How much time are you able to commit to caring for your pet?
- Are your prepared for the effects on your home? - from ‘accidents’ on the floor to pet hair on your clothes and furniture?
- What if your circumstances or lifestyle change? - for example, if you travel, move house, change job or want to start a family.
- Can you afford all the ongoing expenses associated with owning a pet? (including food and supplies, obedience training, veterinary bills etc.)
Listed below are some of the most important elements of responsible pet ownership. Remember, this is just a general list, as any pet you purchase may have its own special requirements, and you should research these thoroughly before you make your decision.
1. Choose your pet wisely and include all family members in the decision-making process. Some types of pets have special requirements and you need to be sure you can meet all their needs.
2. Depending on what sort of pet you choose, you may need to register, microchip and desex him or her – if in doubt, check with your local council. Registering and microchipping your dog (or cat) means it is more likely to be returned to you if lost, while desexed pets are more affectionate and less likely to stray or fight.
3. Your pet will need a safe and secure home, including shelter from the elements and comfortable bedding.
4. Feed your pet a balanced and nutritious diet and provide fresh water at all times. Don’t overfeed! – obesity is a big problem for pets as well!
5. Make sure you provide veterinary care when necessary, including dental care, regular worming and immunisation.
6. You must also provide your pet with regular exercise to keep it fit and healthy. Most pets love exercise and it is vital for their wellbeing.
7. Take some time to enjoy playing with your pet, using this time to bond with them and keep them entertained and alert.
8. You must train and socialise your pet so it is happier, safer and easier to live with!
9. Love your pet and treat them as a member of your family, including him or her wherever possible in your daily activities.
10. Finally, when choosing your new pet, consider giving a loving new home to one of the needy pets at your local RSPCA shelter
Your pet will love you unconditionally as long as you allow it to, and it is your job to be deserving of this love. Always treat your pet with kindness, compassion and patience and you will have a loving and loyal friend for life. This infosheet has been prepared for your information by RSPCA Australia.
Atricle Source: http://www.rspca.com.au/admin/resources/filelist.asp
Important - Read This: This information is intended to provide general information only which may not be applicable to your particular circumstances. You agree to access this information at your own risk and that First Point Media is not liable to you for the content of the information or any reliance by you on this information.
