Good Owners Tip of the Month
There are many different things pet owners can do to be the best owners they can be. Our Animal Control Services is committed to offering tips and suggestions to our residents to achieve the best relationship with your best friend!
12 WAYS TO BE A BETTER DOG OWNER
- If you travel with your dog in the back of a truck, do so only if you have the dog in a secured crate or canopy. Dogs fall out and when they are tied may be up dragged.
- An animal should never be left in a vehicle. In the summer the temperature inside is like a greenhouse. If it is warm to you, it is HOT to a dog. Opening the windows a crack does not provide any air circulation. Remember, dogs do not sweat, the only way for them to cool down is by panting, in a hot vehicle, the air temperature is too high to cool them down. In winter your vehicle becomes a freezer.
- Check you dog’s collar every month. Dogs grow and fur thickens. Always be sure to have a space of at least 2 fingers between the neck and collar.
- Socialize your dog from a young age. If a dog is not exposed to other animals, children, etc they may become aggressive or extremely fearful of them. The need for socializing never stops.
- Take your dog to a qualified trainer to learn manners. Be sure to ask about their training methods before you sign up to be sure they are training by a method you agree with.
- A dog needs exercise EVERYDAY. A lot of the problems dogs have are caused by lack of adequate exercise.
- NEVER leave your children alone with ANY dog. Both children and dogs can be unpredictable.
- Keep your dog on your property. Any dog not supervised on leash and off its property is considered AT LARGE. Many people are intimidated by dogs of all kinds. Many dogs are injured or killed by vehicles daily.
- Excessive barking bothers your neighbors. Do not encourage barking. Dogs can be trained not to bark excessively.
- A dog run or pen makes for a safe environment for the dog as well as your neighbors. Tying or chaining a dog can be very frustrating for the animal and may make him aggressive. Remember, never use a choke chain when chaining you dog, he may become tangled and choke.
- Always provide proper shelter for your dog from the heat and cold. Fresh water should always be available for the dog to drink.
- Have your pet spayed (female) or neutered (male). Both female and male dogs can get many types of cancer if they are not altered. Unaltered male dogs are much more likely to wander off, get into fights with other dogs, be aggressive toward people and mark any area they can. Unaltered female dogs may also be more aggressive to animals and people. Female dogs bleed when in heat (twice yearly) and attract unaltered male dogs, which will lead to fights between these dogs.
If you have any questions regarding your dog, or tips you would like to see posted, please contact aharder@parklandcounty.com