Pets are Family Members not Occasional Gifts
With the Christmas season knocking on the door, I am positive that a lot of you ladies and gentlemen are thinking of gifting your loved ones a pet. In case indeed you want to, I am here to remind you that owning a pet is a full time job. As a dog owner myself, I thought I would gather a list of some of the things that you will have to take care of if you decide to get a pet.
1. Proper nutrition
Seems like a no-brainer right? Actually, you would be surprised how many people take little care of their pet’s nutrition. When it comes to pet nutrition, there is no one size fits all. Whether you decide to feed your furry friend dry food, wet food, homemade food, or a mix of all; you have to make sure you keep tabs on the quality and quantity. You don’t have to buy premium food if you can’t afford it, but at least make sure to buy a good quality of food. Low quality pet food often leads to bad digestion (diarrhea and throwing up) and in the long term it could cause allergies and loss of fur, which honestly would be more expensive to treat. Quantity wise, you need to make sure you are feeding your dog just enough. Not more, nor less.
2. Timely vaccination
Yet another no-brainer. Seriously though, do you really want to sentence your pet to death? It doesn’t matter if your pet only lives indoors, whether you like it or not they will be vulnerable to various diseases. The microscopic assassins can find their way to your pets. Some diseases that you could be exposing your pet to are the notorious parvovirus, rabies, canine distemper, hepatitis, lyme disease, canine influenza, leptospirosis, and kennel cough. Not to mention the diseases that you are risking to contract.
3. Deworming and ticks and fleas treatment
Just because you can’t see them, it doesn’t mean they are not there. When it comes to worms, there are no early signs of them. The parasites multiply inside your pet’s intestines without you knowing and symptoms such as weight loss, dry coat, and loss of appetite start showing if untreated. As for the ticks and fleas, they can cause a variety of health issues such as skin infections, rashes, scabs and scales. What is worse is that they can be transmitted to humans in some cases.
4. Home Alone Time
If you are aiming for a cat, they can be left alone for up to 24 hours. On the other hand, dogs can be left alone for 6 to 8 hours maximum according to the American Kennel Club. Access to food, clean water, mentally stimulating toys, and poo area should be provided. So if your schedule does not allow you to provide proper supervision, it’s time to re-think your choice.
5. Oral Hygiene Care
In order to keep your pet safe from plaque and tartar - which cause bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay - you will have to take care of their oral hygiene. There are multiple ways to do so, one of the most efficient is brushing their teeth with pet toothpaste and a soft bristles toothbrush. Other pet dental care techniques include dental chews, dental wipes, and oral care water additives. You have many options to choose from, no excuses are accepted.
Other than that, you will have to shower your pet every three weeks and groom every three to four days depending on the breed. You will also have to play and exercise with your pet so that they stay healthy. One very important thing to take into account is keeping some funds on the side in case an injury occurs. You will also have to be patient enough to train your pet without using any means of abuse. Finally, you’ll have to show love and make them part of the family.
Is that too much? If yes, please tick off the pet from your christmas gifts list. Thanks.
