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Princess collars, doggie day care and even designer pet beds are popular nowadays, and it's easy to understand the temptation. How can you not spoil the kitten that falls asleep in the small of your back, or the puppy that trots behind you carrying a prized oversize stick? But pampering your pet should only be bonus; keeping them safe, happy and healthy is what's fundamental.
"We invite these animals into our homes, we make them part of our family," says Steve Carroll, CEO of the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (www.cfhs.ca). "And when we make that commitment, we need to live up to it." Here are 10 ways to make sure you are.
1. Pick the right pup
"One of the most important things you want to consider before you buy a pet is whether your lifestyle will accommodate it," says Carroll. Your experience owning pets, the time you have at home, your level of physical activity, whether there are other pets in the house and the amount of room you have should all factor into your decision. The Humane Society has a comprehensive program to match owners and pets, and many breeders also discuss compatibility. You can also check out the Iams Pet Selector online.
2. Keep him healthy
Your pet can't tell you if he's sick, points out Carroll, so it's important to schedule regular checkups with the vet. You might also want to consider pet health insurance, an increasingly popular option that can help you avoid unexpected bills if you pet gets sick or injured. It's also important to spay or neuter your pet: it prevents unwanted animals and makes your pet less likely to be aggressive or roam, and lowers its chances of catching a disease.
3. ID your pet
All pets need some form of permanent ID, either a tattoo or a microchip. Microchip programs don't yet link to a universal database, so ask questions before you buy. In addition to a permanent option, every pet needs a collar with its name, your name, and a phone number. This often allows for pets to be returned directly, preventing a trip to the Humane Society that nobody wants.
4. Go to obedience school
Take your dog to obedience school. Training (which should be mostly with positive reinforcement) will help people feel safer around your pet, can reduce the amount of damage your pet may do to your home, and will make your dog happier. "The animal feels more well adjusted and safe, because they know what the expectations are (for him)," explains Carroll.
5. No fat cats
If a cat (or dog) is overweight it often means he's not getting enough exercise. Play with indoor cats -- and as an aside, Carroll strongly discourages letting cats roam outdoors, saying it's just not safe. Dogs also need regular exercise, and letting him out in the backyard doesn't count. As a bonus, long walks "will keep both of you healthy," says Carroll.
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