As the human companion of a canine, you’re on the receiving end of a sentiment rarely evident in a relationship between two human beings: unconditional love. With that in mind, think of the connection between you and your dog not as an ownership but as a bond. You are one of the many participants in a connection between homo sapiens and faithful four-legged comrades that stretches back many thousands of years.
With love comes responsibility. Loving your dog in the way he deserves does not mean treating him like a human being. There is no need to remember his birthday, buy him expensive gifts, or apologize for going on a date with someone else. You will remain the very center of his world, so reward the loyalty expressed in those trusting eyes by taking the greatest care of your dog. For those wishing to do their best, the Responsible Ownership page on the American Dog Owners Association Web site is a good starting point. Check out useful advice about providing for your dog’s daily needs and long-term health, and tips on selecting and buying a puppy. PetCareRx is a great resource for getting deep discounts on all of the pet medications your pet may need.
Here are some simple steps that will help you are your pet forge a wonderful and healthy relationship.
Step 1: Establish A Relationship With A Vet
When your canine companion first comes into your life, as a puppy or an adult dog, you will need to establish a relationship with a vet. The vet will test for worms and start your dog’s program of inoculation against canine diseases such as distemper and hepatitis. Plan for your dog to visit his vet at least once a year for a general health check-up, and consult the vet about any health or care problems you may have in between times.
The vet will also talk to you about having your dog neutered or spayed if you are not aiming to be a breeder. Loving and responsible dog owners will not wish to contribute to the overpopulation of unwanted dogs as a result of unplanned pregnancies. Neutering can also eliminate some health risks associated with the reproductive organs.
Step 2: Be Sure To Give Your Pet Worming Medication
Following your vet’s advice, you will be able to carry out your own basic health care for your dog. This will include administering worming medication to remove internal parasites and using a special collar or spray to eradicate ticks and fleas. You can also perform vital grooming tasks such as bathing, nail trimming, and occasional teeth cleaning, although there are experts to help with these tasks if you prefer. Regular grooming in the form of brushing your dog’s coat should be regarded as an enjoyable bonding experience rather than as a chore, so do plan to do this yourself. Your best friend will reward you with even more love.
Step 3: Provide Your Pet With Quality Nutrition
Naturally, you will want to show your love for your pet by giving him the best nutrition. Dogs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and ages, and their dietary requirements vary accordingly.
Step 4: Establish Rules And Parameters
Dogs are happiest when given set rules and parameters, so establish boundaries for your pet’s behavior. If possible, give him a secure, fenced-in yard to roam in, and a designated indoor area where he can interact with you when you are around. Pack animals, which is what dogs are, need to spend time with their gang. That’s you.
Step 5: Obedience Training Is Imperative
Treating your dog with love should also include obedience training, which is for your dog’s well-being and safety as well as your convenience. An organization such as Bark Busters can put you in touch with dog trainers and obedience classes in your neighborhood. Your dog will be able to practice what he has learned as you take the much-loved daily walk, preferably involving some time off the leash in a dog-friendly park.
Additional Tips
Don’t forget to scoop the poop! It is important to keep a sanitary environment for both your and your pet’s health and well-being.
Everyone loves to treat their pet so if you are looking for a great toy to treat your dog, the Crazy Critters are a must! They are stuffing free so you won’t come home to a mess because your friend has had a little fun while you were away. Additionally, they are very durable and machine washable so you won’t have to replace them once your dog has spent some quality time with them and left them a little messy.
When you share your life with a dog you make an unspoken promise to love for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, and your relationship may well outlast parallel human liaisons. Loving, and being loved in return, is one of life’s sweetest pleasures. If you love your dog as much as he loves you, you may very well end up loving yourself a little more as well.