Responsible Pet Ownership

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Owning a pet is a privilege, but the benefits of pet ownership come with responsibilities.

 

Be a Responsible Pet Owner:

 

1. Commit

• Avoid impulsive decisions when selecting a pet.

• Select a pet that’s suited to your home and lifestyle.

• Keep only the type and number of pets for which you can provide appropriate food, water, shelter, health care and companionship.

• Commit to the relationship for the life of your pet(s).

• Provide appropriate exercise and mental stimulation.

• Properly socialize and train your pet.

 

2. Invest

• Recognize that pet ownership requires an investment of time and money.

• Make sure your pet receives preventive health care (vaccinations, parasite control, etc.), as well as care for any illnesses or injuries.

• Budget for potential emergencies.

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3. Obey

• Clean up after your pet.

• Obey all local ordinances, including licensing, leash requirements and noise control.

• Don’t allow your pet to stray or become feral.

 

4. Identify

• Make sure your pet is properly identified (i.e., tags, microchips, or tattoos) and keep its registration up-to-date.

 

5. Limit

• Don’t contribute to our nation’s pet overpopulation problem: limit your pet’s reproduction through spay/neuter, containment or managed breeding.

 

6. Prepare

• Prepare for an emergency or disaster, including assembling an evacuation kit.

• Make alternate arrangements if you can no longer provide care for your pet.

• Recognize any decline in your pet’s quality of life and make timely decisions in consultation with a veterinarian.

 

(Provided by AVMA)