Did you know that September is Responsible Dog Ownership Month? While we of course firmly believe that dog owners should act responsibly at all times, this is a great time to look at Fido’s care regimen, and see if there is any room for improvement. A Fayetteville, NC veterinarian discusses responsible dog care in this article.

Veterinary Care

First and foremost, make sure that Fido is up to date on important vaccines and parasite control. He should also be examined by a vet at least once a year. In between veterinary appointments, keep an eye out for signs of illness. Call your vet right away if you notice anything amiss. Also, be sure to follow your vet’s advice for food and treats.

Training

In addition to being housetrained and crate trained, all dogs should know basic obedience commands. The five most important ones are Sit, Stay, Come, Heel, and Lay Down. If Fido doesn’t have these down yet, take your furry pupil back to school.

Stimulation

Man’s Best Friend has a tendency to get into mischief when he’s bored, so offer your canine buddy plenty of fun doggy toys to keep him occupied while you’re away. Puzzle toys are great for this!

Exercise

Proper activity is very important to your four-legged pal’s health and well-being! All dogs need some sort of exercise, even if it’s just a walk around the block. Your pup’s exact activity needs will depend on his age, weight, breed, and health, however, so ask your vet for specific recommendations.

ID

Make sure your pet is microchipped, and is wearing proper ID tags. If Fido ever gets lost, having proper ID could very well save his life! If your pooch hasn’t been microchipped yet, we strongly recommend that you get this done as soon as possible.

Grooming

Grooming need vary greatly from dog to dog. Some of our four-legged buddies need to be brushed several times a week, while others only need occasional baths. Just make sure to keep Fido’s coat clean and untangled. Dental care and nail trims are also important.

Belly Rubs and Tail Wags

Dogs need to feel loved to be truly happy. Spend time with your adorable pet, and pay lots of attention to him! Do you have any concerns about your dog’s health or care? Call us anytime! As your Fayetteville, NC animal clinic, we’re here to help!