WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A RESPONSIBLE PET OWNER?

Responsible pet owner is a term that is mentioned often but what does it really mean? Most of us know
how it feels to be nagged by our kids during their birthday or Christmas to adopt that cute little kitten or
puppy they saw at a pet shop. Sometimes, we ourselves get the overwhelming urge to take a beautiful
pet home with us.

How Does One Become a Responsible Pet Owner?

The main question is, is there a guide one can follow to be a responsible pet parent/owner? The answer
is a definite, YES! Here are some of the most important things you need to have a grasp on.

Do PET RESEARCH

Before you make a decision to adopt a pet, do some research about the type of pet you want. After you have done the research, do more research – Get It? The more information you have about the pet, the better you will be able to correctly take care of it. If you are looking to adopt a specific species or breed, ensure you know what their requirements are.

You can always get reliable and accurate information about your particular pet of choice from pet breed centers (both online and at physical locations). When the time comes, you may get your pet from an adoption agency (which is highly recommended), as they will be able to give you even more information about your pet and how to take care of it. If you choose to get one from a breeder or pet shop, ask for as much information as you can about the pet.

Provide a HOME

A HOME is not just shelter, but also food and affection. As a responsible pet parent or owner, it falls on you to provide all the basic needs for your pet. On top of food, shelter and water, ensure you provide social interaction and growth.

o not undermine the positive impact affection for your pet may have on its development and quality of life. After all, pets have feelings just like you and me. There are many resources available to educate you on how to provide a great home environment for your pet.

Provide SAFETY

Providing safety and protecting your pet from harm is a crucial responsibility of any pet owner/parent. These may include pet proofing your home to ensure the animal does not do something, or eat anything, that they cause harm. It also includes you protecting your pet from physical or emotional abuse by any members of your family and outsiders.

In most cases, just using common sense goes a long way towards providing safety and protecting your pet from harm.

Provide Proper PET HEALTH

If something about your pet seems off, bring them to a vet immediately. While we can all agree that sometimes money can be tight, there are various ways around that and a responsible owner plans ahead. If money is tight, you may take your pet to a free clinic or one that offers discounted vet care rates – and before you say ‘they are not there’, trust me, they are there!

If you pet requires pet care products, make sure you get them products from reputable brands rather than buying cheap off-the-counter products. MRVL Health has some of the best pet health products in the market. As a pet owner, you take on the responsibility of not only just making health choices for your pet, but also making sure those choices are the best possible.

Provide TRAINING AND DISCIPLINE

Training is essential to any pet. It enables them to live full and healthy lives. It also makes it easier for both you and your pet to live harmoniously. While disciplining your pet might feel bad at times, a responsible pet owner should not only do it but do it in a humane and affectionate way. Do Not harm or physically hurt your pet in the name of providing “proper discipline”.

You are responsible for providing structure to your pet, and they really need it. The way to go about disciplining and training your pet is by having consistent rules and being aware of your pet’s limitations. Just Do Not forget that patience and compassion go a long way.

Provide PROPER IDENTIFICATION

Proper identification involves getting your pet a collar that has your contact details and name on it. It is recommended that you microchip your pet if, or whenever, you can. If you can get both forms of identification, the better for you and your per because it is most likely your pet might get lost at some point in their life. Remember to have your pet registered when they are microchipped, otherwise there is no point doing it.

Final Piece of Advice

Whilst we all understand that owning a pet comes with extracting commitments to take care of this new member of the family, after the initial joy, the desire to take care of your pet may wane. In such cases, the pet is neglected and devoid or care, and even love. While getting a pet can be very fulfilling, before you do so, ask yourself, “Will I be a responsible pet owner? If not, it might not be the right time to do so.