Towards Responsible Pet Ownership

Having a pet in the home is not only great for the children but for the whole family. Most pet owners including older people find pets, such as a dog or cat to be therapeutic for them too.

They help relieve stress, loneliness and seem to know when we are sad or happy. Pet owners must play an important role in ensuring their pets are well behaved at home and also in public and not defecate by the roadside, parks and other areas.

Ensuring that the environment is clean, safe and peaceful is the social responsibility of each and every pet owner. Responsible pet owners prevent their pets from roaming free.

Pets face many dangers from motor vehicles, other animals and diseases and can cause many problems in destroying property. Responsible pet owners keep their pets inside or control their pets with a fence, a good walk or a leash at all times.

If their pet is ever lost, a permanent identification tattoo, tag or microchip will help them return home quickly and safely.

Owners should also keep a current photo and current record of their dog's age, weight, height and markings.

The decision to buy a pet is a big one and the commitment to care for a pet properly is even bigger.

Before you buy or adopt a pet, you must be 110% ready to honour that commitment and responsibility for your pet's entire life.

Some tips on being a responsible pet owner:

• A responsible pet owner must provide for the basic needs of their pet (quality nutrition that guarantees lifelong health, grooming, veterinary check-up, shelter, exercise etc).
• Must spend as much as possible interacting with his/her pet to build a special bond with the animal.
• Besides protecting the health, safety and happiness of their pet, a cat owner can make sure his/her cat is toilet trained using cat litter.

Cats always prefer sand so training them when young with cat litter is a great way to keep them clean and prevent them from soiling your home.

There are various types of cat litters in the market, e.g. clumping and non-clumping, some with odour killer/anti-bacterial properties, scented cat litter and new age silicone gel litter which lasts longer.

• As for dog owners it is necessary to bring along some “pooper scoopers” and a plastic bag when taking the pet out for a walk so that its stools are not left in public places. This is part and parcel of being a responsible member of the community.
• Obedience training is necessary to ensure your dog is obedient and well-behaved in public. Unnecessary barking, chasing people and cars can affect the peace and safety of the environment. Debarking (removing the vocal chords) of a dog is inhumane and unethical. It is more appropriate to send the dog to a professional trainer to minimize incessant barking.
• Know community laws and responsibilities regarding keeping and managing pets, (leash, vaccination and licencing requirements) to ensure you are not breaching any local law.
• Observing changes in your pets behaviour help minimize bad behaviour. Owning a pet can sometimes be the same as having a child around.
• Regular grooming helps to remove dead hair, dirt and parasites while preventative healthcare and vaccinations provide immunity from highly contagious diseases to protect your pet and other animals.
• Spaying and neutering are also some ways you can prevent over-population of strays. Abandoned pets and strays on the streets create serious problems for the environment such as disease, strewn garbage and destruction of property.

Exercising and training your dog

Most dogs love vigorous exercise such as walking and running. Owners who love taking their dogs out with them will easily be able to build that special bond much faster than those who don't spend enough time with their pets.

Do remember that some dogs, such as the larger breeds are very strong and need firm handling or they might wander off and scare children and even joggers.

So unless you are used to handling and training dogs, avoid slightly aggressive breeds such as Rottweiler, Doberman and German Shepherd.

Pet owners must be ready to spend quality time, show care, affection and be patient with their pets especially when they are young.

Most pets enjoy exercising and this will be one of the best times to get to know them better.

Another critical time to watch out for is when they are old/geriatric (above seven years old). When a strong bond is established, the relationship between pet owners will become very meaningful and rewarding.

Cats too need their exercise and owners can get them some scratch pads and toys to keep them occupied. But if owners have a cat which enjoys a little walk now and then, get a cat harness for him/her too.

Pet owners who wish to know about pets and pet care, please call the customer care line at 03-40432420, visit our website at www.petscorner.com.my or e-mail to customercare@petscorner.com.my.