Everyone would like to believe they are a responsible dog owner but offering food and shelter to your dog is not the only thing you should do. Owning a dog is not just for “fun” – it’s a responsibility and a commitment you shouldn’t enter into lightly because it involves a large financial and emotional obligation.
The following points are part of being a responsible owner:
- Spay or neuter your dog. Some dogs benefit from being spayed or neutered. Your vet will be able to advise you what is best for your dog.
- Train your dog. You owe it to yourself and your dog to have a well-trained dog. Make sure your dog learns the eight essential commands to become a well mannered member of your family. If you need help with any training or behavioural issues, Ringwood Dogs will be happy to assist.
- Keep your dog healthy. Make sure you take your dog to the vet annually to keep all vaccinations up to date. It’s important that your dog eats healthy, nutritious foods and has clean water at all times. Bathe and groom your dog on a regular basis.
- Tag your dog. This also includes micro-chipping your dog too. This will become the law from April 2016. Should your dog get lost he or she needs proper identification so they can be returned to you. Your dog tag should include your surname, address, and post code – your telephone number is optional but useful.
- Exercise your dog. A bored dog is a mischievous dog. Make sure you walk and exercise your dog regularly, which will benefit him/her both physically and mentally. If you can’t do this yourself, employ dog walker to do it for you or send your dog to dog daycare like Ringwood Dogs!
- Keep your dog safe. It’s important that you keep your dog safe and not let him/her run loose around the neighbourhood – so make sure all garden fences are secure. If going outside, make sure you use a leash in public. Pick up after your dog. If you are taking your dog for a walk, always carry poop bags and scoop your dog’s poop – so that other people don’t have to step in it!
Getting a dog is a serious commitment, one that should not be taken lightly. Make sure to choose a breed of dog that fits in with your family’s lifestyle.
To follow up or make an appointment or find out more information about Ringwood Dogs, Three Legged Cross on the Dorset, Hampshire and New Forest border please contact Isabelle Papé by clicking on the Contact Me tab.
I look forward to meeting you and working with your dogs.
Teaching Owners – Training Dogs. Happy dog training.
Isabelle Papé IMDT, ISAP, KAD
Ringwood Dogs, Three Legged Cross on the Dorset, Hampshire and New Forest border.
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