Care and Training

• Take your animal in for a Veterinarian check-up once a year. Your Vet will be able to give you individualized advice on keeping him healthy and detect any possible problems early on.

• Keep your companion’s vaccinations current. Vaccinations are an important piece in protecting your animal from diseases.

• Keep your cat indoors at all times. Indoor cats live longer because they are not exposed to the disease, illness and predatory animals of the outside world.

• Have your companion spayed or neutered. An altered animal is less likely to stray from home and become injured. Spaying and neutering also reduces the risk of some cancers.

• Chaining or tethering a dog is frustrating and dangerous and is not recommend. Some more appropriate ways to confine your dog include: a fenced yard, a free-standing dog run, an enclosed porch, or bring them indoors. The house isn’t just for small dogs!

• Protect your animal from the elements. Make sure he has adequate shelter and when it gets too hot or cold, bring him inside with you.

• If your animal is wearing a collar and tags we can ensure that your pet finds his way back home if he becomes lost.

• Dogs are social creature and need to interact with you and your family. You can satisfy your pet’s social need by bringing him inside, taking him on trips with you, and incorporating him into your daily routine. A well socialized dog is less likely to bark when you do have to leave him alone.

• Make sure that your dog receives plenty of your attention and an appropriate amount of exercise when you are home. Allowing your dog a large yard to roam in does not replace the valuable bonding experience of a long walk or hike. Leave your dog with plenty of toys to occupy his body and mind. Buster cubes and Kongs stuffed with treats are great entertainers. Leave something for your dog to chew (like a Nylabone), play with (like a stuffed animal) and chase (like a ball) and he should stay occupied until nap time! Also, having another dog to keep him company may reduce his boredom and tendency to bark.

• Always make sure that your pet is fed an appropriate amount of food for his size and age every day, keep his water bowl full of fresh, clean water, and make sure he has full access to shelter from the heat, cold, and wind. It is cruel and unlawful to deprive your dog of food, water or shelter.

• Obey local ordinances; they are designed to protect your animals.

• Take your dog to training class. A well-trained dog is less likely to get into trouble and can understand commands that direct her attention away from danger.

• Avoid situations that you know may scare your animal. For instance, leave your dog at home when going to watch fireworks, she will be glad to be safely confined at home and miss out on the terrifying noises.

There are plenty of great websites to help you with questions related to health and behavior. Below are just a few.

Animal Poison Control Center 

Before you Adopt – a series of articles and videos from Petfinder.com for those looking to adopt

After you Adopt – a series of articles and videos from Petfinder.com for new pet parents

Pet Place an on-line resource for pet news, behavior, training, and extensive help with health issues

Great Pets   behavior solutions for dogs and cats

ASPCA kids the ASPCA site just for kids

Dog.com   links to over 18,000 dog related sites

Everything you ever wanted to know about cats

Kitten Care   health info for kittens and cats

Take Your Pet   info on traveling with your pet
 

 

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