Caring for pets
The Benefits of Owning a Pet
Pets provide love and companionship for people of all ages and add pleasure and enjoyment to life for millions of Australians.
Australians are well known for their love of pets... we have one of the highest rates of pet ownership per household in the world!
Studies over the last 20 years show that pet owners are generally healthier than non pet owners - they suffer fewer minor illnesses and complaints and generally have a better overall feeling of "wellbeing".
Owning a pet is extremely rewarding, and will bring hours of joy, but it is also a full time responsibility. The decision whether to own a pet is a very serious one, and one that needs to be properly considered and researched. See choosing the right pet.
The Golden Rules of Responsible Pet Ownership
If pets could only talk, they'd tell us what they need. Much of being a responsible pet owner is knowing what your pet actually needs, and what is expected of you.
Following are some simple hints for being a responsible pet owner:
- Choose a pet to suit your lifestyle and surroundings
- Register your pet with your local Council to increase the likelihood of return when lost
- De-sex your pet, preferably before 6 months old if it is not going to be used for breeding or take steps to ensure that it will not be able to breed unwanted litters
- Provide an adequate balanced diet and clean, cool water at all times
- Teach your family, friends and children how to interact with your pet
- Keep your pet confined to your property at all times
- Keep cats indoors at night (house, shed or garage)
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- Find suitable accommodation for your pet when on holidays ie: boarding kennels or catteries that are registered with their local Council (ensure your pet's vaccinations are up-to-date)
- Socialise your pet with other animals and people, particularly during the formative 8 - 16 week period
- Respect the rights of non pet owners by keeping your pet under control while in public
- Protect your pet's health including:
- Required vaccinations
- Regular worm control including heartworm for dogs
- Control of fleas and ticks
- Regular check-ups from your local vet
- Train and regularly exercise your dog
- Share responsibility for looking after your pet amongst all family members
- Shower your pet with love and attention
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Unfortunately, when people don't care for their pets responsibly, the end result is suffering for unwanted animals, burden on welfare shelters to re-house the animals and financial cost for the community. It can also have an impact on our environment and wildlife through unwanted pets being dumped and joining packs of stray animals.
Like most things in life, if you put in the time to be a responsible pet owner, you will reap the rewards through a healthy, well behaved, happy and loyal pet.
Spread the word about responsible pet ownership!
Want to Know More?
The above information provides you with some basic golden rules to follow in being a responsible pet owner.
There are many organisations that can provide more detailed information and advice on taking proper care of your pet.
These organisations include your local Council, welfare agency, vet, pet shop, dog and cat associations and obedience clubs. See pet players. |
