How to Be a Responsible Dog Owner

   According to the AKC, September is Responsible Dog Ownership Month. We don’t like to use the word “own” when it comes to our dogs, but I guess Dog Parenting is still a term that raises some folks’ hackles. Bentley and Pierre are part of our family. They are part of our tribe. All of our decisions take them into consideration.

   We try our best to be responsible dog parents and as with most things in life, when you know better, you do better. One of the reasons we write Barking from the Bayou is to help you have a better relationship with your dog. Some of that is by showing you our mistakes so you don’t make them.

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• Provide a quality food

It is important to become a label reader when you are selecting a food for your dog or cat. With all of the recalls lately, it is a good idea to do some extra research before buying a particular brand.

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• Clean water

This may seem like a no-brainer, but fresh water means more than just making sure the bowl is full. You need to wash food and water bowls on a daily basis with hot water and soap to kill germs and bacteria.

• Grooming

Dogs and cats need regular grooming to keep their coat healthy. Depending on the breed, daily brushing is a great routine to begin as soon as they arrive home. Start off with the right type of brush. (Refer to my Dog Brush Basics post for more information) I love the FURminator for Bentley’s Basset hair. Pierre is a Westie and uses a slicker brush. It is also important to keep their nails trimmed. This can be done at home or you can have your vet or groomer take care of this task. Dental health is extremely important for the health of your pet.

• Training

It is important to train your dog in the basics such as walking on a leash, coming when called, sit, and basic manners. This requires consistency on your part and it is very important to keep any training positive. This includes potty or litter box training. Never yell or strike your dog or cat. In no circumstances should you stick their nose in their “accidents.” There are many books on how to train your dog, but we believe that positive reinforcement is the way to go.

• Exercise

Pets need to move their bodies and they depend on you to provide that exercise. This is one of the best ways to bond with your dog or cat. You can take them for walks, runs or play games but the main thing is that they are getting much-needed exercise.

• Veterinarian Care

You should choose a veterinarian that you trust before you bring your pet home. They will need to have a check-up at least once a year until they reach “senior” status when they visit the vet twice each year.

• Proper ID

Microchipping saves lives. It is that simple. Each week as we search for our BFTB NETWoof News, there are always stories of pets being reunited with their families because they have a microchip. Always make sure to update your pet’s information if you move. A collar with proper identification is also very important. You can choose from thousands of collars but I love designing mine from PrideBites.

• Traveling

Never allow your pet to travel in your vehicle without being secured by a pet-friendly seat belt, harness, carrier, or inside a kennel. Left unrestrained, your dog will become a projectile if you are involved in an accident. It doesn’t matter if they are great at riding in the seat; they need to be secured for their safety and yours.

• Pet-Proof Your Home

Pets are naturally curious and that can be a very dangerous thing. You need to get down on your hands and knees to explore your home from their viewpoint. Make sure wires, plants, and anything else that can be dangerous or poisonous to your pets are out of their reach.  If you have a recliner, I urge you to read our Recliner Warning. It could save your dog’s life. A pet gate can keep them from areas that might pose a problem.

Remember, a safe home is a happy home.  

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