Becoming a pet owner is a very exciting time, but it comes with a lot of responsibility and work. To be the best pet owner possible, it means providing the support, care, resources and love your furry friend needs to live a happy and healthy life. We've compiled a list of tips for responsible pet ownership that will keep your pets healthy and happy throughout their entire lifetime. 

Do Your Research

Adopting a pet requires a commitment to care for them for their entire lifetime. Before making an impulsive decision to become a pet owner, there are many things to consider such as breed, lifestyle and your amount of free time. Pets are companions that need love, care and devotion, so make sure the pet you choose is suited for your lifestyle and home. Owning a pet is a privilege that comes with financial and time investments to overcome any health or behavioral challenges that may arise. 

Regular Exercise & Mental Stimulation

Pets need to stay healthy, strong and in shape just like humans do. Some pets require more exercise than others. Dogs often require daily walks, time to run outdoors and playing in the park to burn off energy. Cats may burn off energy by chasing or swatting toys through the house. As the saying goes, a tired pet is a happy pet. Providing your pet with regular exercise and mental stimulation will keep them happy and healthy. 

Schedule Annual Veterinarian Checkups

Staying on top of your pet's healthcare is important in making sure they live a long and happy life. Taking your pets to the veterinarian for annual wellness visits is critical to ensuring they stay in good health and also allows a professional to catch any medical issues before they become a more significant issue.  Your veterinarian can also give more advice on grooming requirements and how to best handle hygiene. 

Most importantly, regular vaccination, deworming and flea and tick preventatives are vital to your pet's health.  All of these can be administered at your pet's annual veterinarian check-up, but Durvet also offers products for each of these that can be administered from the comfort of your home.  We offer a full line of do-it-yourself vaccines, pet dewormers and flea and tick solutions.  

Socialize & Train Your Pet

The number one reason pets are surrendered to shelters is due to behavioral issues. Training and socializing your pet may be time consuming, but is essential for pets to know what behavior is acceptable. Dogs are pack animals and meeting other canines can boost your pet's confidence and help to eliminate anxious tendencies.  Training and socialization helps pets to be more cooperative, confident and comfortable to live within the home. Cats can also be trained and given boundaries on where the litter box is located, what surfaces are off limits and where to scratch to prevent any damage to the home.

Spay & Neuter

Studies have shown that pets that are spayed and neutered live healthier, longer lives. Plus, spayed and neutered pets are less likely to have behavioral issues in the long run. Unfortunately, animal shelters are full and overpopulation of companion animals is an issue in our country. Being a responsible pet owner includes limiting your pets from reproducing with managed breeding or by getting them spayed or neutered. 

Obey Rules & Pick Up After Your Pet

Owning a pet means that there are a few "unwritten" rules you should follow. Always keep your pet leashed while in public and obey all local ordinances including licensing, leash requirements and noise control. To be respectful of those around you, you should always clean up after your pet. 

Feed them Properly

Providing your pet with the basic necessities goes without saying. They should have access to clean water, healthy and nutritious food and shelter at all times. A healthy, proper diet is important for your pet's quality of life. The breed of animal along with many other factors can determine which food might work best for your pet. Depending on breed, size, age, weight and allergies, it may take experimenting and consulting with your veterinarian to find the right fit for your pet. 

Keep them Safe

Taking extra precautions inside and outside of your home and implementing ways to increase safety around your home is important to providing a good level of safety for your furry friend. Having your pet microchipped or wearing pet tags are vital in the event your pet escapes from your yard and gets lost. Make sure they are marked with clear and current identification so they can be returned to you if found. 

Time and Money Investment

Owning a pet can be a huge time and money investment, but it is worth it. Before purchasing a pet, you should consider your ability to care for a pet for their entire lifespan. Life can also hand us unexpected things, so you should make alternate arrangements if you can no longer care for your pet. 

Give Them Plenty of Love

Last but certainly not least, pets deserve the unconditional love back that they give. Pets are our companions who depend on us for their quality of their life. Creating a strong emotional bond and giving your furry friend love and devotion is just as important as the physical responsibilities. Pets should be treated like members of the family. They give endless love, so we should return the favor by caring for them, providing for them and giving lots of belly scratches and snuggles!

While these 10 tips are helpful to a pet owner, the list of responsibilities could go on and on. Owning a pet is a big commitment, but they make our lives better and we should be committed to doing the same for them!

Please Note: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. In all cases, it is each owner's responsibility to obtain veterinary services and advice before using any of the information provided. Durvet encourages owners to make their own animal health care decisions in partnership with their veterinarian. Please read all labels carefully. Product is for veterinary use only. Not intended for use in humans. 

Sources: Danbury Animal Welfare Society, AZPetVet