Top Ten Pet Tips

            Pet ownership has many rewards. Your pet can give you years of love, loyalty, and even entertainment, but having a pet is a responsibility. Here are some essential pet care tips for responsible pet parents. Our tips follow the guidelines recommended by Humane Society of the United States. Please visit their site. You can get there by clicking Humane Society of the United States on our Links page.

1. Make sure your pet has a collar and an ID tag with its name and your phone number. If lost, an ID tag will greatly increase the chances of recovering your pet.
2. Follow all state licensing laws. Georgia requires that all cats, dogs, and ferrets have yearly rabies vaccinations. There is a three year vaccination available now. 
3. Please keep your pet confined to your property for his or her safety, and also in consideration of your neighbors. Most people are pretty tolerant of a friendly animal paying an occasional visit, but there are many who are not happy with uninvited guests. Cats will live longer and healthier lives if kept indoors. There are some good containment systems that will allow cats to go outside in an enclosed safe environment. For dogs, off property, on leash is the best rule to follow. Remember roaming animals can end up in the pound, can be hit by  a car, can get lost, and can even be shot, or poisoned.
4. Give your pet a nutritionally balanced diet, and plenty of access to fresh water. Water bowls should be cleaned and refreshed often. Your veterinarian can tell you what and how much to feed.
   
5. Pets need proper shelter. A fenced yard, or kennel system, with a doghouse is best for large, or active dogs. Kennels are good if you are a renter, because you can take them with you when you move. Make sure there is shade available in hot weather. Tethering is not recommended, because it can cause a dog to be more territorial and aggressive. Remember that dogs are social animals who need companionship. They are happiest when they can spend time inside with their families.
6. Please spay, or neuter, your pet. Pets that are spay/neutered tend to live longer, have healthier lives, and have fewer behavior problems. It is also better for the community, because it reduces pet overpopulation. 
7. Schedule regular vet check-ups for your pet. Annual visits can detect problems before they become serious. Your vet is your best source of advice on caring for your pet.
   
8. Groom your pet to keep his or her coat healthy. Grooming prevents hair from matting and removes excess hair which helps eliminate some shedding. Cats that groom themselves ingest a lot of hair. Brushing your pet, even if short haired, can reduce the occurrence of hairballs.
   
9. Exercise is good for people and pets. Make sure you set aside time to play with your cat to keep it physically and mentally stimulated. Give your dog enough exercise to keep him fit, but not exhausted. Teaching your dog to play ball, and taking him for regular walks should keep him in shape. There is an added benefit to walking the dog. Studies have shown that walking with your dog can help you loose weight and keep it off.
10. Have reasonable expectations concerning your pet. Cats and dogs do not think like people; do not expect this of them. Most pet behavioral problems can be solved with a little training. Cats can be taught to stay off counter tops, and to refrain from scratching furniture. Enroll you dog in an obedience class. It can help you bond to your pet and you will have a more enjoyable companion. It is well worth the cost of the class.

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